Basic Informations:
Age range: 10–18 years (youth), 50–70 years (elderly)
Number of players: 4–6 teams (3–5 members each)
Duration: 2 hours
Primary focus of the game: This game promotes orientation and navigation skills through hiking while incorporating environmental awareness and teamwork.
Materials:
- Trail map with hidden waypoints
- Compass for each team
- Task cards for each checkpoint
- Scorecards
- Stopwatch or timer
How to Play:
Preparation:
- Teams receive maps, compasses, and their first clue.
- Each clue leads to a checkpoint where players must complete a challenge before receiving the next clue.
Tasks:
Checkpoint 1: The Direction Dilemma – Teams must use a compass to navigate to the first waypoint based on given coordinates. (10 points for accuracy)
Checkpoint 2: Nature’s Code – Identify three types of natural markers (e.g., moss on trees, sun position, animal trails) that indicate direction. (10 points for correct identification)
Checkpoint 3: Shelter Challenge – Build a temporary natural shelter using found materials. (15 points for stability and creativity)
Checkpoint 4: River Crossing – Teams must solve a riddle about water conservation before proceeding. (10 points for the correct answer)
Finish:
- The first three teams to finish earn bonus points (+10, +5, +3).
- Additional points for creativity and teamwork throughout the game.
Rules:
- Teams must stay together.
- A correct answer is required before moving to the next checkpoint.
- Respect nature—no damaging plants or disturbing wildlife.
Youth-Friendly Add-ons:
- Let youth be the navigators and elders the advisors.
- Small prizes such as eco-friendly badges or plantable seed cards for winners.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding navigation in nature.
- Learning about environmental landmarks and sustainability.
- Encouraging teamwork and intergenerational cooperation.
Debriefing Questions:
- How did you find the navigation challenges?
- Did the activity help you understand nature’s way of guiding us?
- What was the most valuable teamwork lesson you learned?
Resources:
- How to use a compass: [link]
- Natural navigation techniques: [link]