Crossing the Alligator Pit Game

The Crossing the Alligator Pit game is a fun way for Scouts to practice teamwork and lashing skills. It challenges Scouts to work together to build a structure and solve a problem. This makes it a good choice for meetings focused on pioneering or outdoor skills. Scouts learn by doing, which is a key part of the Scouting program.

This game can be used as a patrol competition. Patrols must work together to build a structure that will help them cross the “alligator pit.” They use spars and ropes to create an A-frame and must move it safely across a marked area. This encourages Scouts to share ideas and communicate clearly.

Scouts also practice leadership in this game. One Scout stands on the A-frame while others manage the ropes to keep it balanced. This helps Scouts learn to trust each other and listen to instructions. It shows how leadership and teamwork are connected.

The game also teaches outdoor skills in a hands-on way. Scouts use lashings to build a sturdy structure. They see how knots and lashings are important for solving real problems. This game combines fun and learning, making it a great addition to any Scouting activity.

Scouts learn many important skills from the Crossing the Alligator Pit game. First, it teaches teamwork. Building and moving the A-frame requires everyone to work together. No one can succeed alone. Scouts practice listening to each other and helping their patrol reach a goal. This connects to the point of the Scout Law that says a Scout is Helpful.

The game also shows how planning and communication are important. Patrols need a plan for building their structure and for moving it safely. Scouts must give clear directions and listen carefully. This builds problem-solving skills and helps Scouts learn to communicate well in a group.

This game ties to the point of the Scout Law that says a Scout is Trustworthy. The Scout on the A-frame must trust the other Scouts to keep it steady and safe. The Scouts holding the ropes must trust that their teammates are doing their part. Learning to trust each other helps build stronger patrols and friendships.

Scouts also improve their pioneering skills by using lashings. They learn how to make a sturdy structure with spars and ropes. This shows how skills like knots and lashings are useful in real situations. It is a great way to prepare for larger pioneering projects.

This game is best for Scouts ages 11 and up, like those in Scouts BSA. Venturers or older Scouts might enjoy increasing the challenge, such as a wider pit or stricter time limits. Adjusting the difficulty makes it fun for all ages.

The game also reminds Scouts to stay positive, even if things don’t go as planned. If the structure tips or the patrol doesn’t win, they can learn from mistakes and try again. This teaches perseverance and a good attitude, which are useful in all areas of life.

This game was featured in the old Hobbies Troop Program Feature.

Equipment (per patrol)

• Some method of marking an area on the ground – string, chalk, etc. depending on the surface
• 3 spars, each about 6 feet long
• 3 sections of rope for lashing, each about 6 feet long
• 4 sections of cord or sturdy string for use as guy lines

Instructions

1. Mark the “alligator pit” on the ground. It should be 20 feet from one side to the other. Make it wide enough so that the patrols can line up along one side with a few feet between each patrol.
2. The patrols start lined up on one side of the pit.
3. Give them a signal to start.
4. The patrols should lash their spars together into a a-frame shape. The program helps suggest a shear lashing at the top and diagonal lashings for the crossbar. (Comment below suggests square lashing instead.)
5. Attach the four guy lines near the top lashing.
6. Stand the construction up. One Scout stands on the crossbar. Four additional Scouts use the guy lines to prevent it from tipping over.
7. The Scout on the crossbar then “walks” the structure across the alligator pit, with the four Scouts on the guy lines keeping their lines taut to keep in from tipping over.
8. The first patrol to successfully cross the pit wins.

Printable instructions for Crossing the Alligator Pit Game

The Importance of Games in Scouting

More Games

If you enjoyed learning about the Crossing the Alligator Pit game, check out more games for Scouts on my website. I’ve gathered a variety of activities that help Scouts build skills, work as a team, and have fun. From outdoor challenges to simple meeting games, there’s something for every age group. Visit Games for Scouts to find ideas for your next meeting or campout.

What skills does this game teach?

This game teaches teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Scouts also learn pioneering skills, like lashings and knots.

What is the best age group for this game?

This game is best for Scouts BSA (ages 11 and up) and Venturers.

How much space do we need to set it up?

The “alligator pit” should be 20 feet across, with enough room on the sides for patrols to line up and move.

What safety precautions should we take?

Make sure the area is clear of obstacles, and supervise Scouts closely. Scouts should be careful when moving the A-frame.

What happens if the structure tips over?

Patrols should reset their A-frame and try again. This teaches patience and problem-solving.

The Crossing the Alligator Pit game challenges Scouts to work as a team while practicing pioneering skills. Using spars and rope, patrols build an A-frame structure. One Scout stands on the crossbar of the A-frame, while others hold guy lines to keep it balanced. Together, they carefully “walk” the structure across a marked area, called the alligator pit. The first patrol to cross the pit without tipping over wins.

This game teaches teamwork, communication, and trust. Scouts must share ideas, listen to each other, and work together to succeed. It also helps develop leadership skills. One Scout takes the lead as the “rider,” while others follow directions to keep the A-frame steady and safe.

Scouts also learn practical outdoor skills. Building the A-frame requires lashings, knots, and careful planning. It is a fun way to prepare for larger pioneering projects. The game can be adapted for different age groups, making it a good choice for troop meetings or campouts.