What is the Outdoor Skills Challenge?
The Utah 4-H Outdoor Skills Challenge is a hands-on event where youth demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in outdoor survival, navigation, and environmental awareness.
Participants engage in activities that may include map reading, compass navigation, wildlife identification, camping skills, and outdoor safety. These challenges are designed to build confidence, problem-solving skills, and a deeper connection to Utah’s natural environment.
Outdoor skills competitions often include both practical, hands-on activities and knowledge-based components that test real-world readiness.
What You’ll Experience
Youth participating in the Outdoor Skills Challenge will complete a variety of engaging and skill-building activities.
- Participate in team competitions
- Complete hands-on outdoor problem-solving challenges
- Skill Challenges will be released June 1, 2026 to allow time for practice
- Challenges may include:
- Navigate using maps and compasses
- Demonstrate outdoor safety and survival skills
- Identify wildlife, plants, and natural resources
- Challenges may include:
clover These challenges are designed to simulate real outdoor scenarios and encourage critical thinking and independence.
Who Can Participate?
The Utah 4-H Outdoor Skills Challenge is open to youth enrolled in Utah 4-H programs.
- 4-H members in grades 3–12
- Must be currently enrolled as a member of Utah 4-H
clover 4-H contests and events are designed to match youth skill levels and provide age-appropriate challenges.
While the contest itself is for 4-H members, families are welcome to come, have fun, and enjoy the beauty and recreation of Garfield County.
- Things to do around Escalante: Bryce Canyon, Escalante State Park, Town of Escalante, UT, Escalante Petrified Forest
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location: Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
- Time: starting at 10:00 a.m.
- Registration Deadline: May 1, 2026
- Cost: $30 per team (includes t-shirt and lunch)
Additional Info:
Participants should come prepared for outdoor conditions, including appropriate clothing, water, and any required materials.
Families will be able to purchase additional t-shirts and lunches.
Hikes, Tours, & Night Program will be held the night before on Friday, July 17, 2026.
How the Challenge is Scored
Participants are evaluated based on their knowledge, skill demonstration, and ability to apply what they’ve learned in real-world outdoor scenarios.
Scoring may include:
- Accuracy in navigation and identification tasks
- Demonstration of safety and preparedness
- Completion of hands-on skill stations
- Written or knowledge-based assessments
clover Many Utah 4-H contests use a combination of performance scoring and ranking systems to recognize achievement and growth.
Why Join the Outdoor Skills Challenge?
The Outdoor Skills Challenge goes beyond competition—it’s an opportunity for youth to grow, explore, and develop lifelong skills.
- Build confidence in outdoor environments
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills
- Gain hands-on experience in survival and navigation
- Connect with other Utah 4-H members
- Prepare for future outdoor recreation and careers
clover Outdoor skill-building programs help youth develop independence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature.