Arrow of Light Badge for Cub Scouts

The Arrow of Light is the final rank in Cub Scouts. It is for fifth graders and prepares them to move on to Scouts BSA. It is also the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on a Scouts BSA uniform.

Scouts complete 6 required adventures and at least 2 elective adventures. These can be done with the den or, in some cases, at home with family support.

A service project is required as part of the Citizenship adventure. Scouts must complete at least two hours of service.

Outdoor activities are an important part of this year. Scouts take part in a campout and may choose electives like fishing or paddle craft.

Swimming is not required unless a Scout chooses a water-related elective. These activities must follow safety rules and have proper supervision.

Scouts visit a Scouts BSA troop as part of the Bobcat adventure. This helps them understand what to expect next.

Families can help with many parts of the program. Some requirements are designed to be done at home.

What To Expect This Year

Arrow of Light Scouts usually meet a few times each month. Meetings are active and focused. Scouts typically work on one adventure at a time so they can build skills step by step. Some adventures take one meeting, while others take several.

This year includes more outings than earlier ranks. Scouts take part in a campout, service projects, and a visit to a Scouts BSA troop. These activities help them see what comes next and give them real experience using their skills.

Scouts are expected to take on more responsibility. They begin using the patrol method and start making more decisions as a group. The goal is to help them become more independent and ready to join a Scouts BSA troop.

Simple Timeline Example

September: Bobcat
October–November: Outdoor Adventurer
December: Citizenship
January: First Aid
February: Duty to God
March: Personal Fitness
April–May: Electives and crossover prep

This is just one way to plan the year. You can adjust based on your local weather and schedule. Placing Outdoor Adventurer in the fall makes camping more comfortable in many areas. The goal is to complete the required adventures and leave time for electives and preparing for Scouts BSA.

Printable Arrow of Light Cub Scout requirements

Printable checkoff sheet for the Arrow of Light Rank (for den or individual use)

Arrow of Light Bobcat Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Arrow of Light Bobcat Adventure introduces Scouts to how a Scouts BSA troop works. They learn about the patrol method and why it is used. Scouts also learn the Scout Oath, Scout Law, motto, and slogan. This helps them understand the values they will use as they move forward in Scouting.

What Scouts Do
Scouts form a patrol, choose a patrol name, and elect a patrol leader. They get to know each other and work together as a group. Scouts practice the Scout Oath and Scout Law. They learn the Scout sign, salute, and handshake used in Scouts BSA. They also visit a Scouts BSA troop to see how it works. At home, they complete a child safety activity with a parent or guardian.

This adventure helps Scouts begin the transition to Scouts BSA.

Leader Tips
Take time to explain the patrol method and let Scouts make decisions as a group. Keep activities simple and give Scouts chances to lead. Plan the troop visit early so it fits your schedule. Practice the Scout Oath and Law at each meeting. Remind parents about the child safety requirement so it is completed at home. See leader resources here.

Arrow of Light Bobcat Adventure Requirements

1. Demonstrate the patrol method by choosing a Patrol name and electing a patrol leader. Discuss the benefits of using the patrol method.   
2. Get to know members of your patrol.
3. Recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law with your patrol.  
4. With your patrol create a Code of Conduct. 
5. Demonstrate the Scout sign, Scout salute and Scout handshake used by Scouts BSA.  Show how each are used. 
6. Learn the Scouts BSA slogan and motto.
7. With your patrol, or with your parent/legal guardian, visit a Scouts BSA troop. 
8. At home, with your parent or legal guardian do the activities in the booklet “How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.” 

Citizenship Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Citizenship Adventure helps Scouts learn how to serve their community. They learn that service takes planning and teamwork. Scouts also learn how to think about safety when helping others. This helps them understand their role as active and responsible members of their community.

What Scouts Do
Scouts choose a service project with their patrol or pack. They use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan how to do the project safely. Scouts then take part in the service project for at least two hours. They work together and help meet a real need in their community.

This adventure helps Scouts see that their actions can make a difference.

Leader Tips
Guide Scouts in choosing a simple and meaningful project. Keep the planning process clear and easy to follow. Review the BSA SAFE Checklist together so Scouts understand safety. Make sure the project fits the time requirement. After the project, take time to talk about what went well and what they learned. See leader resources here.

Citizenship Adventure Requirements

1. Identify a community service project that your patrol or pack could accomplish.  Use the BSA SAFE Checklist and develop a plan to conduct the service project safely.
2. Participate in a service project for a minimum of 2 hours or multiple service projects for a total of 2 hours.

Duty to God Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Duty to God Adventure helps Scouts think about their faith and how it connects to the Scout Law. They learn that faith can guide their choices and actions. Scouts also learn to respect different beliefs and understand that people serve others in many ways through their faith.

What Scouts Do
Scouts talk with a parent or guardian about their family’s faith traditions. They choose a value from their faith that connects to the Scout Law and discuss how it is lived out. Scouts meet with a representative from a faith-based organization and learn how that group helps others. They also talk about what “Duty to God” means in their daily life.

This adventure helps Scouts reflect on their beliefs and how they serve others.

Leader Tips
Most of this adventure is done at home, so let families know early. Be respectful of different beliefs and keep discussions open and simple. Encourage Scouts to share only what they are comfortable sharing. If possible, help arrange a visit or speaker from a local faith-based organization. Keep the focus on respect, service, and daily actions. See leader resources here.

Duty to God Adventure Requirements

This Adventure may be earned by completing the requirements below OR by completing a Religious Emblem of the Cub Scouts family’s choosing.

1. Discuss with your parent or legal guardian about your family’s faith traditions or one of your choosing.  Choose a view value of that faith tradition that is related to the Scout Law. Discuss with your family how each family member demonstrates this value.
2. Meet with a representative of a faith based organization in your local community that provides a service that assists people in crisis regardless of their faith.  Identify who they help and how.
3. Discuss with our parent, legal guardian, or adult leader what “Duty to God” means to you.  Tell how you practice your Duty to God in your daily life. 

First Aid Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The First Aid Adventure helps Scouts learn how to respond in emergencies. They learn how to recognize common injuries and what to do first. Scouts also learn how to stay calm and get help when needed. This helps them feel more prepared and confident in real situations.

What Scouts Do
Scouts watch a safety video with permission from a parent or guardian. They practice what to do in serious situations like bleeding, choking, or not breathing. Scouts learn how to treat common injuries such as cuts, burns, bites, and nosebleeds. They also make a personal first aid kit and learn how to use each item.

This adventure helps Scouts be ready to help when someone is hurt.

Leader Tips
Keep demonstrations simple and hands-on. Let Scouts practice each skill instead of just watching. Use clear steps and repeat them often. Avoid making scenarios too intense. Focus on helping Scouts feel confident. Remind families about the video requirement. Consider inviting someone with first aid experience to help teach. See leader resources here.

First Aid Adventure Requirements

1. With permission from your parent or legal guardian, watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for the Arrow of Light rank. 
2. Explain what you should do if you encounter someone in need of first aid.
3. Demonstrate what to do for hurry cases of first aid: serious bleeding, heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest, stopped breathing, stroke, poisoning. 
4. Demonstrate how to help a choking victim. 
5. Demonstrate how to treat shock. 
6. Demonstrate how to treat the following: cuts and scratches, burns and scalds, bites and stings of insects and animals, and nosebleed.
7. Make a personal first aid kit.  Demonstrate the proper use of each item.

Outdoor Adventurer Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Outdoor Adventurer Adventure helps Scouts build camping skills and confidence. They learn how to prepare for an overnight campout and what gear they need. Scouts also learn how to use the BSA SAFE Checklist and why it matters. They begin to understand how to care for their campsite and respect nature.

What Scouts Do
Scouts plan what to bring for a campout and learn how to carry their gear. They review the BSA SAFE Checklist and locate their campsite on a map. During the campout, Scouts help set up the patrol area, including tents and cooking space. They practice keeping food safe and the campsite clean. After the campout, they talk about what went well and what they would change next time.

This adventure gives Scouts real experience living and working outdoors.

Leader Tips
Plan ahead so the campout runs smoothly. Review gear and expectations before the trip. Let Scouts take the lead in setting up the campsite, even if it takes longer. Keep safety a priority at all times. Use simple checklists to help Scouts stay organized. After the campout, allow time for reflection so Scouts can learn from the experience. See leader resources here.

Outdoor Adventurer Adventure Requirements

1. Learn about the Scout Basic Essentials. 
2. Determine what you will bring on an overnight campout including a tent, sleeping bag/gear and how you will carry your gear.
3. Review the 4 points of the BSA SAFE Checklist and how you will apply them. on the campout.
4. Locate the campsite where you will be camping on a map.
5. With your patrol or a Scouts BSA troop, participate in a campout. 
6. Upon arrival at the campout determine where to set up your campsite; kitchen, eating area, tents, and firepit.  Help the patrol set up the patrol gear before setting up your own tent. 
7. Explain how to keep food safe and the kitchen area sanitary at the campsite.  Demonstrate your knowledge during the campout.
8. After your campout, discuss with your patrol what went well and what you would do differently next time.   Include how you followed the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace Principles for Kids.

Personal Fitness Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Personal Fitness Adventure helps Scouts learn how to stay healthy through exercise and good food choices. They learn what it means to be physically fit and how daily habits affect their health. Scouts also begin to understand how to plan simple meals and stay active over time.

What Scouts Do
Scouts plan and prepare a balanced meal using gear they would use on a campout. They track their physical activity for 14 days and think about how often they are active. Scouts take part in a group activity that includes stretching and movement. They also review their health record with a parent or guardian and talk about what activities are safe for them.

This adventure helps Scouts build habits that support a healthy lifestyle.

Leader Tips
Keep activities simple and realistic. Encourage Scouts to choose easy meals they can prepare with help. Remind them to track their activity each day so they do not forget. Plan a group activity that keeps everyone moving. Let families know early about the health record review. Focus on building habits, not perfect results. See leader resources here.

Personal Fitness Adventure Requirements

1. Plan a balanced meal that you would eat when camping.  Prepare that meal using the gear you would use on a campout. 
2. Examine what it is to be  physically fit and how you incorporate this in your life.  Track the number of times you are active for 30 minutes or longer over a 14-day period.  Share with your patrol or family what you enjoyed and if you feel you are living up to the Scout Oath of being physically fit.
3. Be active for 30 minutes with your patrol, a younger den, or at least 1 other person, that includes both stretching and moving.
4. Review your BSA Annual Health and Medical record with your parent or guardian.  Discuss your ability to participate in pack and den activities.

Champions for Nature Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Champions for Nature Adventure helps Scouts learn how food and the environment are connected. They learn where food comes from and why local food can be important. Scouts also learn about food waste and how it affects their community. This helps them see how daily choices can make a difference.

What Scouts Do
Scouts identify foods that are grown or processed in their state. They learn the benefits of buying local food. Scouts explore the idea of a food desert and how it affects people. They learn ways to reduce food waste and think about how their community can do the same. Scouts also take part in a conservation service project.

This adventure helps Scouts understand how to care for both people and the environment.

Leader Tips
Keep topics simple and easy to understand. Use real examples, like local foods or grocery store items. If possible, visit a garden or invite a speaker. Choose a conservation project that is clear and manageable. Encourage Scouts to share ideas about reducing waste at home. Keep discussions focused on practical actions. See leader resources here.

Champions for Nature Adventure Requirements

1. Identify foods grown or processed in your state.
2. Determine the benefits of purchasing food that is locally grown or processed.
3. Explore the concept of a food desert.
4. Learn how individuals can reduce food waste.
5. Examine how your community can reduce food waste.
6. Participate in a conservation service project.

Cycling Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Cycling Adventure helps Scouts learn how to ride longer distances safely. They learn how bike gears work and why they are useful. Scouts also learn basic bike care, like fixing a flat tire and maintaining a chain. This helps them understand how to keep their bike in good condition.

What Scouts Do
Scouts decide what gear they need for a long ride and how to carry it safely. They learn how multi-gear bikes work and practice basic maintenance like lubing a chain. Scouts learn how to repair a flat tire and use a bike lock. They plan a 10-mile ride using a map and then complete the ride with a buddy.

This adventure helps Scouts build confidence and endurance while biking.

Leader Tips
Make sure all Scouts have a safe and working bike. Check helmets before riding. Practice skills like fixing a flat tire before the long ride. Plan a safe route with low traffic. Keep the group together and use the buddy system. Have adults placed along the route to help with safety. See leader resources here.

Cycling Adventure Requirements

1. Decide on gear and supplies you should bring might bring for a long bike ride.  Determine how to safely carry the gear. 
2. Discover how multi-gear bicycles work and the benefit. 
3. Practice how to lube a chain.
4. Review different bicycle locks. Demonstrate the operation of locks and, how to secure your bicycle with a lock. 
5. Repair a flat tire.
6. With your family, den, or pack, use a map and plan a bicycle ride that is at least 10 miles.
7. With your buddy, go on bicycle ride that is a minimum of 10 miles.

Engineer Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Engineer Adventure helps Scouts learn how engineers design and build things. They learn about different types of engineering, such as civil, electrical, and mechanical. Scouts begin to understand how planning, testing, and improving are part of the process. This helps them see how engineering affects everyday life.

What Scouts Do
Scouts learn about three types of engineering and choose one to explore. They look at blueprints or plans used in that field. Scouts choose a project and follow the engineering process to design, build, and test it. They make changes as needed to improve their project.

This adventure helps Scouts think through problems and create solutions.

Leader Tips
Keep projects simple and easy to complete. Provide examples of basic blueprints or plans. Let Scouts take the lead in designing their project. Allow time for testing and making changes. Focus on the process, not just the final result. Encourage teamwork and sharing ideas. See leader resources here.

Engineer Adventure Requirements

1. Learn the focus, related sciences, and products of civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers.
2. Pick one of the engineering fields from requirement 1 to complete the following requirements. 
3. Examine a set of blueprints or specifications used by your choice of engineer.
4. Identify a project that you would like to build.
5. Using the engineering process, build your project. 

Estimations Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Estimations Adventure helps Scouts learn how to use math in everyday situations. They learn that estimating can help when exact numbers are not needed. Scouts begin to understand how to make reasonable guesses about time, distance, height, and amounts. This helps them build confidence in solving simple problems.

What Scouts Do
Scouts practice estimating how much food is needed for a meal. They estimate the time of day and the height of an object. Scouts also estimate distances between two points. They compare their estimates to actual measurements to see how close they were.

This adventure helps Scouts see how math is useful in real life.

Leader Tips
Start with simple examples before moving to larger estimates. Let Scouts make guesses without worrying about being exact. Show them how to check their answers. Use real objects and outdoor spaces when possible. Keep activities hands-on and encourage discussion about how they made their estimates. See leader resources here.

Estimations Adventure Requirements

1. Estimate the amount of food needed for a meal.
2. Estimate the time of day.
3. Estimate the height of a distant object.
4. Estimate the distance between two points.

Fishing Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Fishing Adventure helps Scouts learn how to plan and carry out a fishing trip. They learn about fish habitats and what fish need to live. Scouts also learn how to follow safety rules and local fishing regulations. This helps them understand how to fish in a responsible way.

What Scouts Do
Scouts plan a fishing trip, including where to go and what fish to catch. They use the BSA SAFE Checklist to prepare. Scouts list the gear they need and learn how to tie a knot for their hook. They set up their fishing rod and have an adult check it. Scouts then spend at least one hour fishing and using what they learned.

This adventure gives Scouts real experience fishing in a safe and simple way.

Leader Tips
Choose a fishing location that is easy to access and safe for Scouts. Check local rules and permits ahead of time. Bring extra gear in case someone needs it. Keep instructions simple and allow time for practice. Focus on the experience, not just catching fish. Remind Scouts to follow all safety guidelines. See leader resources here.

Fishing Adventure Requirements

1. Make a plan to go fishing. Determine where you will go and what type of fish you plan to catch. All of the following requirements are to be completed based on your choice.
2. Use the BSA SAFE Checklist to plan what you need for your fishing experience. 
3. Describe the environment where the fish might be found.
4. Make a list of the equipment and materials you will need to fish.  
5. Determine the best type of knot to tie your hook and tie it.
6. On your own, set up the appropriate type of fishing rod and tackle you will be using.  Have an adult review your gear.
7. Using what you have learned about fish and fishing equipment, spend at least an hour fishing following local guidelines and regulations.

High Tech Outdoors Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The High Tech Outdoors Adventure helps Scouts learn how technology can support outdoor activities. They learn how tools like weather apps and knot apps can help them plan and stay safe. Scouts also begin to think about how gear has improved over time and how it could improve in the future.

What Scouts Do
Scouts use a weather app with an adult to check the forecast and talk about how it affects their plans. They use an app to learn and tie a knot. Scouts discuss how technology has improved camping gear. They also think of an idea for how technology could make outdoor gear better.

This adventure helps Scouts connect technology with outdoor skills.

Leader Tips
Keep the focus on simple and useful technology. Make sure Scouts have access to a device when needed. Choose easy apps that are quick to learn. Connect each activity to real outdoor use. Encourage Scouts to share ideas and think creatively about improvements. See leader resources here.

High Tech Outdoors Adventure Requirements

1. With an adult, use a weather app to see the forecast for your outdoor adventure and discuss any preparation needed to accommodate the weather.
2. With an adult, find a knot tying app.  Select one knot to learn and tie it using the app.
3. Discuss how technology has improved camping gear.
4. Think of a way technology can improve camping gear used on one of your outdoor Adventures.

Into the Wild Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Into the Wild Adventure helps Scouts learn about animals and how they live. They learn that animals depend on their environment to survive. Scouts also learn how different species interact and how people can affect wildlife. This helps them understand the importance of caring for nature.

What Scouts Do
Scouts visit a place where they can observe wild animals. They choose one animal to study. Scouts observe its behavior and learn how it lives. They create a model of the animal’s ecosystem. Scouts also learn how the animal interacts with other species and how people affect its environment.

This adventure helps Scouts build respect for wildlife and the outdoors.

Leader Tips
Choose a location where Scouts can safely observe animals. Keep expectations simple and focus on observation. Bring paper or notebooks so Scouts can record what they see. Help Scouts think through their ecosystem models. Encourage discussion about how people can protect wildlife. See leader resources here.

Into the Wild Adventure Requirements

1. Visit a place with a variety of wild animals.  Select one of the animals and observe its behavior.  Use your selected animal to complete the remaining requirements.
2. Create a model of your animal’s ecosystem.
3. Investigate how your animal coexists with other animals  in the wild. 
4. Describe how humans interact with your chosen animal’s ecosystem
5. Discover how wildlife management benefits your animal.

Into the Woods Adventure Requirements

What Scouts Learn
The Into the Woods Adventure helps Scouts learn about trees and how they support the environment. They learn the difference between deciduous and evergreen trees. Scouts also learn how trees provide food and shelter for wildlife. This helps them understand why trees are important in nature.

What Scouts Do
Scouts visit an area with trees and plants and look at different types. They choose one tree to study. Scouts identify if it is deciduous or evergreen and if it is native or introduced. They learn how the tree survives events like wildfire. Scouts also learn how animals use the tree for food or shelter.

This adventure helps Scouts notice and understand the natural world around them.

Leader Tips
Choose a location with a variety of trees for observation. Bring simple guides or pictures to help with identification. Keep explanations short and easy to follow. Encourage Scouts to look closely and share what they notice. Help them connect their observations to how trees support wildlife. See leader resources here.

Into the Woods Adventure Requirements

1.  Visit an area with trees and plants and conduct a tree inventory.  Select one tree and complete the remaining requirements based on that tree. 
2. Determine if your tree is deciduous or evergreen.  
3. Identify a tree and determine if the tree is native or was introduced to your area.
4. Find out how your tree deals with wildfire.
5. Learn how wildlife uses your tree.

Printable requirements

Check off sheet to keep track of your den’s progress

Knife Safety Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Knife Safety Adventure helps Scouts learn how to handle and use knives safely. They learn the rules for safe use and why those rules matter. Scouts also learn how to create a safe space when using a knife. This helps them understand responsibility and safe behavior.

What Scouts Do
Scouts learn and agree to follow the Cub Scout Knife Safety Rules. They practice using a safety circle. Scouts demonstrate how to care for and safely use a knife. They also practice using a pocketknife to make a useful object and learn how to safely use a kitchen knife for simple tasks.

This adventure helps Scouts build confidence while using tools safely.

Leader Tips
Review all safety rules before starting any activity. Keep groups small so you can supervise closely. Use simple materials for projects. Remind Scouts to always use a safety circle. Demonstrate proper techniques step by step. Focus on safety and control, not speed. See leader resources here.

Knife Safety Adventure Requirements

1. Read, understand, and promise to abide by the “Cub Scout Knife Safety Rules.”
2. Demonstrate the knife safety circle.
3. Demonstrate that you know how to care for and use a knife safely. 
4. Demonstrate the proper use of a pocketknife to make a useful object on a campout.
5. Choose the correct cooking knife and demonstrate how to properly slice, chop, and mince. 

Paddle Craft Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Paddle Craft Adventure helps Scouts learn how to stay safe while using a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. They learn about Safety Afloat and why it is important. Scouts also learn how to wear a life jacket correctly and what to do if they fall into the water. This helps them feel more confident during water activities.

What Scouts Do
Scouts choose a paddle craft and review safety rules. They demonstrate how to wear a properly fitted life jacket and practice entering the water safely. Scouts learn how to enter and exit their craft and what to do if it tips over. They practice basic paddle strokes and spend time on the water using their skills.

This adventure gives Scouts hands-on experience with paddle sports in a safe setting.

Leader Tips
Make sure all Scouts pass the swimmer test before starting. Review Safety Afloat with the group. Use calm water and a safe location. Keep instructions simple and allow time for practice. Make sure all Scouts wear life jackets at all times. Have enough adults to provide close supervision. See leader resources here.

Paddle Craft Adventure Requirements

1. Before attempting requirements 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 for this Adventure, you must pass the BSA swimmer test.    
2. Pick a paddle craft for which to complete all requirements: canoe, kayak or SUP.
3. Review Safety Afloat.
4. Demonstrate how to identify and properly wear a life jacket that is the correct size. 
5. Jump feet first into water over your head.  Swim 25 feet wearing a life jacket.
6. Discuss how to enter and exit a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddle board (SUP) safely.  
7. Discuss what to do if your canoe or kayak tips over or you fall off your SUP. 
8. Learn 2 paddle strokes: power stroke and the sweep. 
9. Have 30 minutes, or more, of canoe, kayak or SUP paddle time. 

Race Time Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Race Time Adventure helps Scouts learn about building, improving, and leading. They learn how small changes can affect speed and performance. Scouts also learn about sportsmanship and how to support others. This helps them grow as leaders and role models for younger Scouts.

What Scouts Do
Scouts build either a Pinewood Derby car or a Raingutter Regatta boat with adult supervision. They learn the rules for their race and think about ways to improve their design. Scouts help mentor a younger den as they prepare for their race. They also talk about good sportsmanship before taking part in the event.

This adventure gives Scouts a chance to lead and share their experience.

Leader Tips
Encourage Scouts to take an active role in helping younger Scouts. Keep the focus on learning and leadership, not just winning. Review race rules early. Offer simple tips for improving designs. Talk about sportsmanship before race day. Recognize effort, teamwork, and leadership. See leader resources here.

Race Time Adventure Requirements

1. With adult supervision, build either a Pinewood Derby car or a Raingutter Regatta boat.
2. Learn the rules of the race for the vehicle chosen in requirement 1.
3. Mentor a younger den to prepare for the race.
4. Before the race, discuss with your den how you will demonstrate good sportsmanship during the race.
5. Participate in a Pinewood Derby or a Raingutter Regatta.

Summertime Fun Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Summertime Fun Adventure helps Scouts stay active during the summer and stay connected to Scouting. They learn that Scouting continues even when regular meetings are not happening. This helps them build a habit of staying involved and enjoying activities year-round.

What Scouts Do
Scouts take part in three Cub Scout activities between May and August. These can include camps, service projects, or pack events. They spend time with other Scouts and continue to take part in the program during the summer months.

This adventure helps Scouts stay engaged and connected.

Leader Tips
Share summer activity options early so families can plan ahead. Keep expectations simple and flexible. Encourage Scouts to attend any Scout-related events, not just den activities. Remind families to keep track of what they attend. Recognize participation when the new program year begins. See leader resources here.

Summertime Fun Adventure Requirements

1. Anytime during May through August participate in a total of 3 Cub Scout activities.

Swimming Adventure

What Scouts Learn
The Swimming Adventure helps Scouts learn how to be safe in the water. They learn the Safe Swim Defense guidelines and why they matter. Scouts also learn the order of rescue and how to help someone from a safe position. This helps them understand how to act responsibly around water.

What Scouts Do
Scouts review Safe Swim Defense and learn the order of rescue. They practice reach and throw rescue methods from land. Scouts attempt the BSA swimmer test. During swim time, they use the buddy system and stay within their ability group. They take part in buddy checks while swimming.

This adventure helps Scouts build confidence and safety skills in the water.

Leader Tips
Make sure all activities follow safety guidelines. Use a safe swimming area with qualified supervision. Review the buddy system before entering the water. Keep instructions simple and give Scouts time to practice. Always maintain close supervision and conduct regular buddy checks. See leader resources here.

Swimming Adventure Requirements

1. Review the Safe Swim Defense. 
2. Explain the meaning of “order of rescue” and demonstrate the reach and throw rescue techniques from land. 
3. Attempt the BSA swimmer test.
4. Have 30 minutes, or more, of free swim time where you practice the Buddy System and stay within your ability group.  The qualified adult supervision should do at least three buddy checks per half hour swimming. 

Archery Adventure Requirements

Shooting sports adventures can only be completed at district and council events.

1. Identify and wear the appropriate safety gear.
2. Demonstrate the archery range safety rules and whistle commands.
3. Demonstrate proper range commands and explain them to an adult or another Scout.
4. Identify the main parts of your shooting equipment and how to properly use them.
5. Demonstrate proper stance and shooting techniques.
6. Shoot 5 arrows at a target. Repeat four times and do your best to improve your score each time. Shoot at least 25 arrows.
7. Demonstrate how to safely retrieve your arrows.

BB Guns Adventure Requirements

Shooting sports adventures can only be completed at district and council events.

1. Identify and wear the appropriate safety gear.
2. Recite the 4 safety reminders.
3. Demonstrate proper range commands and explain them to an adult or another Scout.
4. Show how to use the safety mechanism.
5. Demonstrate how to properly load, fire, and secure your BB gun.
6. Demonstrate the prone, bench, and sitting positions for shooting a BB gun.
7. Fire 5 BBs at the target and score your target. Repeat three times and do your best to improve your score. Fire at least 20 BBs.
8. Demonstrate how to put away and properly store your BB gun and shooting equipment after use.

Slingshot Adventure Requirements

Shooting sports adventures can only be completed at district and council events.

1. Identify and wear the appropriate safety gear.
2. Recite the safety rules for using a slingshot.
3. Demonstrate proper range commands and explain them to an adult or another Scout.
4. Explore the parts of a slingshot and their usage.
5. Discover the types of ammunition that may be used and types that may not be used.
6. Discover the types of targets that may be used and types that may not be used.
7. Shoot 5 shots at a target. Repeat twice and do your best to improve your score each time. Shoot at least 15 shots.
8. Following the directions of the range master, shoot at least 5 shots at your target with your non-dominant hand.
9. Demonstrate how to put away and properly store your slingshot and shooting equipment after use.

Arrow of Light Cub Scout Den Leader Guide

Being a den leader for Arrow of Light Scouts is a rewarding experience. My guide gives you the tools to plan meetings, keep Scouts engaged, and help them earn their rank. With a little preparation, clear expectations, and a focus on fun, your den will have a great year.

Remember, you are helping these Scouts take their final steps in Cub Scouting and prepare for Scouts BSA. Keep meetings active, involve parents, and be flexible when needed. Most of all, enjoy the adventure. The time and effort you put in now will make a lasting impact on your Scouts.

Get my free Arrow of Light Cub Scout Den Leader Guide here.

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Arrow of Light Overview (Video)

What is the Arrow of Light?

The Arrow of Light is the final rank in Cub Scouts. It is earned by fifth graders. It shows they are ready to move on to Scouts BSA. It is also the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on a Scouts BSA uniform.

Who can earn the Arrow of Light?

Fifth grade Cub Scouts work on this rank. They complete required adventures and at least two electives with their den or family.

Is Arrow of Light the same as Webelos?

No. These two years are now separate. Webelos is for fourth graders. Arrow of Light is for fifth graders.

How many adventures are required?

Scouts complete six required adventures. They also choose at least two elective adventures.

Do Arrow of Light Scouts need to finish a service project?

Yes. The Citizenship adventure includes a service project that must total at least two hours.

Can Scouts do outdoor activities?

Yes. Outdoor Adventurer includes a campout. Many electives also involve outdoor skills.

Do Scouts need to swim?

Only if they choose a water elective. Swimming and Paddle Craft are optional adventures.

Can a Scout earn a religious emblem instead of the Duty to God adventure?

Yes. Earning a religious emblem fulfills that adventure.

Do Scouts visit a Scouts BSA troop?

Yes. This visit is part of the Arrow of Light Bobcat adventure.

Can Arrow of Light adventures be done at home?

Many can. Parents or guardians may help if the den cannot meet. Some requirements, like swimming or shooting sports, must be done with qualified supervision.

The Arrow of Light is a special moment for Cub Scouts. It marks the end of their time in Cub Scouts and the start of something new. Fifth graders work hard to reach this point. They learn new skills, help others, and grow in confidence. This rank shows they are ready for the adventures ahead in Scouts BSA.

The program gives Scouts many chances to learn about the outdoors, health, and citizenship. They also explore faith, service, and leadership. Each adventure helps them build good habits and try new things. Along the way, they have fun with friends and discover what they enjoy most.

Earning the Arrow of Light is more than checking off tasks. It is about becoming responsible and helpful. It is about learning to work together and care for the world around them. When Scouts finish this rank, they are ready for the next step. They stand at the edge of a new path, excited and prepared for what comes next in scouting.