Age range: 6-15 years (youth), 50–70 years (elderly)
Number of players: 2-8 players in teams
Duration: 1-2 hours (depends on trial length)

• A printed map of the trail with marked task checkpoints (physical markers ribbons or signs)
• Task cards (provided before starting the hike or given at checkpoints)
• Notebook and pen for each team (or a phone for photos)
• Small bag for collecting items

Starting the game:

• Participants are divided into teams (3-5 members)
• Every team is providing with the map and notebook
• Rules must be explained:
  • Follow the trail
  • Complete tasks at each checkpoint to earn points
  • Document the findings/answers in the notebook

• At the end of the hike, participants are counting the points
• The team with the most points wins

1: Leaf detectives

• Task: Collecting 3 different leaves. Identifying the tree species using a guidebook or clues from the cards
• Learning: Teaches tree identification and biodiversity
• Points:

• 3 points for each correct identification
• 5 bonus points for identifying a rare tree (oak, maple)

2 : Animal tracks explorer

• Task: Search for and document any animal tracks you find. Sketch the track in your notebook or take a photo
• Learning: Raises awareness of wildlife habitats
• Points:

• 5 points for each unique track
• 3 bonus points for explaining what animal might have made the track

3 : Trash patrol

• Task: Pick up litter along your path. Separate into “recyclables” and “non-recyclables”
• Learning: Promotes environmental stewardship and recycling
• Points:

• 2 points per piece of litter (up to 10 pieces)
• 5 bonus points for sorting accurately

4 : Nature’s sound orchestra

• Task: Sit quietly for 2 minutes and list 5 sounds you hear (birds, wind, water)
• Learning: Improves mindfulness and appreciation for nature
• Points:

• 2 points per unique sound

5 : Inclusive stories

• Task: Share a memory or story about nature that taught you something valuable
• Learning: Encourages intergenerational bonding and inclusion
• Points:

• 10 points for each shared story
• 5 bonus points for creativity

6 : Eco pledge

• Task: As a team, create a 3-point pledge to protect the environment
• Learning: Fosters commitment to sustainable living
• Points:

• 10 points for a pledge
• 5 bonus points for specific actions ( use reusable water bottles for example).

1. Stay on the trail at all times.
2. Tasks must be completed as a team.
3. Respect nature—no picking plants or disturbing wildlife unnecessarily.

• Use stickers as rewards for completing tasks.
• Add fun, silly challenges at checkpoints (e.g., make a team chant about trees).

After the implementation, start the conversation with participants about the experience they just had. Check with them what were the most valuable learning points for them.

1. How was it for you?
2. Were the rules of the game clear and simple?
3. How this activity contributes to your understanding of the environment?
4. Are you able to list some new tree species after the activity?
5. What are the specifics of wildlife habitats? Did you managed to track animals?
6. What did you learn about recycling and ecology in general?
7. Did you manage to cooperate with other team members?
8. Was this a result of a teamwork?
9. What did you learn from younger/older team members?
10. Did you manage to have fun on the way?

What is tree peeping: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaf_peeping

How to read a topographic map for hiking: https://www.backroads.com/pro-tips/hiking/how-to-read-a-topographic-map-for-hiking

How to identify trees-  https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/how-to-identify-trees/-

How to identify animal trails: https://www.backpacker.com/skills/how-to-recognize-and-identify-animal-tracks-on-the-trail/