Suspend a Log Activity

This Activity is meant for Scouts BSA.

one short 2foot log per patrol
5 20' ropes per patrol

Good review of First Class knots and uses of each.

The goal is to suspend the log above the ground between 3 trees, using every knot once.
Give materials to each patrol and indicate which trees to use.
Give 5 minutes to plan without touching materials.

Knots to Use:

• Square Knot
• Sheet Bend
• Timber Hitch
• Clove Hitch
• Two Half-hitches
• Taught-line Hitch

Reflection afterwards to discuss success, teamwork, and cooperation.

Recommended Uses for Knots:

• Taught-line Hitch - 1st rope to tree
• Two Half-Hitches - 2nd rope to 2nd tree
• Clove Hitch - 3rd rope to 3rd tree
• Square Knot - connect 2nd and 3rd ropes
• Timber Hitch - around log
• Sheet bend - connect 3rd rope to log rope. Hang this over the bridge made by 2nd and 3rd ropes and adjust length to keep log off ground.

Alternatives to consider:

No talking or only patrol leader can talk
• Use blindfolds on all or all but patrol leader