# Double A-Frame Monkey Bridge

Part of the Pioneering Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/pioneering/guide/index.md)

*9. Full-Size Projects*

> **9.** Working in a group, (or individually with the help of your counselor) build a full size pioneering structure, using one of the following designs in the Pioneering merit badge pamphlet:Carefully plan the project, assembling and organizing all the materials, referring to the points under Safe Pioneering, and complying with the height restrictions in the Guide to Safe Scouting. **Double A-Frame Monkey Bridge**

A monkey bridge is one of the classic pioneering projects because it looks exciting and teaches a lot at once. It combines elevated supports, strong anchoring, hand lines, foot lines, and real moving loads as people cross.

## What makes this option challenging

This bridge teaches how a structure behaves when the load is not static. The force changes with each person's movement, so alignment, anchors, and inspection matter more than looks.

**Plan before you build** — Questions to answer with your team

- [ ] **Do we have enough room for the span and approach areas?**
- [ ] **Do we have enough qualified adult supervision for a bridge project?**
- [ ] **Are our anchors and A-frames appropriate for the expected load?**
- [ ] **Who is checking the bridge before anyone crosses?**

> **Safety First!**
>
> Do not let anyone cross until your counselor or another qualified adult has inspected and approved the finished bridge. A bridge is never the place to "test it by seeing what happens."

This official monkey bridge video is the most direct example for this option.

Video: [Double A-Frame Monkey Bridge (video)](https://youtu.be/qlafze5YVXI?si=P1CTghvisAMAU1bA)

> **Tip**
>
> If your crew is strong with anchors and A-frames but short on time, focus on building one clean, safe bridge instead of chasing extra decorative features.

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- Previous: [Choose Your Big Build](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/pioneering/guide/req9/index.md)
- Next: [Single A-Frame Bridge](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/pioneering/guide/req9-option2/index.md)