Read Before Beginning the Course

The Camp Miakonda Orienteering Trail was developed to help Scouts complete the Scouts BSA First Class Rank Requirement 4a (13th Edition).

Please read the following before beginning:

• Scouts should have a basic understanding of how to take and follow compass bearings.

• Always use the buddy system.

• The trail is intended for daylight use only.

• Before starting, notify your adult leader and/or the Camp Host or Ranger that you are using the course and record your start time. The course should take approximately one hour to complete.

• The pace counts listed on the course sheet are approximate and should be adjusted to your personal pace. Each pace consists of two steps (left/right). See "How Do You Measure Your Pace?" below.

• Bearings may vary slightly depending on the user, the type and accuracy of the compass, and your starting position. A baseplate orienteering compass is recommended.

• When you reach the estimated marker location, look around the immediate area. The marker may not be located at the exact pace count and bearing due to terrain, vegetation, or natural changes.

• Course markers are 1½-inch × 1½-inch wooden stakes painted with a red-and-white diagonal stripe. Each marker is labeled on the top of the stake.

• Fallen branches or other natural obstacles may require you to adjust your route. Go around the obstacle while maintaining your original bearing whenever possible.

• If you discover a missing or damaged marker, please report it to the Camp Ranger.

Course History

This course was originally established by Rodger Phillips and Tom Hill of Troop 123, Commodore Perry District. It was revised in September 2023 to accommodate construction projects around Camp Miakonda.

Finding Your Pace

Before starting the orienteering course, determine your average pace using the 100-foot pace course located on the paved road between Miakonda Lodge and the Royal Flush. The course is marked every 25 feet, with the 100-foot marker located near the Royal Flush sidewalk.

Starting at the 0-foot marker, walk at your normal pace. Begin with your left foot. Each time your right foot touches the ground, count one pace. Continue counting until you reach the 100-foot marker.

To find the length of your average pace, divide 100 feet by the total number of paces you counted.

Example: If you count 40 paces over 100 feet:

100 ÷ 40 = 2.5 feet per pace

Use this average pace while navigating the course. Keep in mind that rough terrain, hills, trees, logs, and other obstacles will affect your stride, so your pace may vary as you travel.