Scout Ahead https://www.scoutahead.org/plans/mile-swim

Mile Swim Award

Swimmer test, then the discussion and the quarter-mile qualifier, then the mile, signed off by a council-approved counselor.

6 steps. · Version 1, published 9 October 2026 · About Mile Swim Award

This is the whole plan: everything that could apply to anybody.

The steps

Stage 1 of 6

1 step

  • Find a council-approved counselor Milestone

    Counselors must be approved by the council. Aquatics Instructors, Red Cross Water Safety Instructors and YMCA Swim Instructors are named as good candidates, and every counselor needs current Safe Swim Defense training.

Stage 2 of 6

1 step

  • 1. Pass the swimmer test Requirement

    100 yards in one swim with a sharp turn: 75 in a strong stroke, then 25 of easy resting backstroke.

    Usually comes after Find a council-approved counselor.

Stage 3 of 6

1 step

  • 2. Learn what makes a long swim work Requirement

    Through discussion and practice: how skill, stamina, stroke choice and pace affect distance swimming.

    Usually comes after 1. Pass the swimmer test.

Stage 4 of 6

1 step

Stage 5 of 6

1 step

  • 4. Swim the mile Requirement

    Under safe conditions, over a course your counselor approves.

    Usually comes after 3. Qualify with a quarter mile.

Stage 6 of 6

1 step

  • Counselor signs the application; buy the award Milestone

    The counselor signs to confirm every requirement is complete. The emblem and pocket certificate are bought at a Scout shop.

    Usually comes after 1. Pass the swimmer test, 2. Learn what makes a long swim work and 2 others.

This plan is a planning aid: the current Boy Scouts of America publication is always the authority, and the sources used here are listed in full. Each step names its own.