Free Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt Printable

An Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt is one of the easiest ways to add a bit of fun to December, and these free printable clues make it simple to set up in just a few minutes.

The rhyming clues work in any home, and kids love racing from one spot to the next as the Elf “guides” them around the house.

We’ve used scavenger hunts for years, and they’ve turned into one of those Elf traditions my son still remembers.

The clues aren’t numbered, so you can mix and match them however you like, perfect for younger kids who need a straightforward path or older ones who enjoy a little extra challenge.

With twelve clues that lead to common household places, this scavenger hunt is an easy, low-prep way to make your Elf’s visit feel a little more magical this season.

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Elf Scavenger Hunt Clues

This set includes 12 rhyming Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt clues you can hide around the house.

Use as many as you like, the clues aren’t numbered, so you can place them in any order.

They’re designed for common household spots, making the hunt easy to adapt for different ages.

Free for personal use only. Scroll to the bottom of the page to grab the printable PDF.

Clues included:

• The Elf on the Shelf is here to stay, the next clue is where you lay
• The Elf on the Shelf will move later, make sure you check the refrigerator
• Santa’s elves are full of glee, your next clue is hiding in the Christmas tree.
• The North Pole is far away your next clue is where you play.
• The Elf is hanging out on his shelf, the next clue is where you would see yourself
• The Elf on the Shelf has been, your next clue is where you clean
• Santa Claus likes a nice wreath, the next clue is hiding where you brush your teeth
• The elf came with a treat, the next clue is where you eat
• There is snow in the air, the next clue is hiding on your chair
• The reindeer are in the stable, the next clue is under the table
• The elves are hiding go and look, but the next clue is in your favorite book
• The elves’ favorite subject is math, the next clue is hiding in the bath!

If you want another festive option, try our free Christmas scavenger hunt too.

How to Play the Elf Scavenger Hunt Game

Setting up this Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt is quick and easy. All you need is a printer, the clue cards, and a few minutes to hide them around the house.

What you’ll need

• The free printable clues (download at the bottom of the page)
• Paper or cardstock (cardstock holds up better)
• Scissors to cut out each clue
• A small prize or treat for the final stop

How to set it up

1. Print the clues on A4 or Letter paper. “Shrink to fit” works best.
2. Cut out the cards and choose which clues you want to use.
3. Plan your route, because the clues aren’t numbered, you can arrange them in any order.
4. Hide each clue in its matching location around the house.
5. Place the final surprise (a small treat, book, or note from your Elf) at the last spot.

Kids simply follow the rhyming riddles from one location to the next, and the Elf “guides” the hunt.

For even more fun this December, try our free Elf on the Shelf name generator too.

Elf on the Shelf Gifts

If you want to add a small surprise at the end of the scavenger hunt, you don’t need anything big. A candy cane or a few chocolate coins work well, but here are a few simple Elf-themed gift ideas that feel special without being over the top:

• Elf on the Shelf Plushee Doll – Perfect for kids who want to hold the Elf without breaking any “no-touching” rules.
• Elf Pets with Storybook – A soft companion that adds a new layer to your Elf’s December adventures.
• Elf Pajamas – A cozy end-of-hunt prize kids can wear all season.
• Christmas Elf Books – A calmer option for bedtime, and a sweet way to anchor the tradition.

If you want another easy activity to pair with this hunt, try the Santa scavenger hunt printable.

Other Free Elf on the Shelf Worksheets

If you want a few more easy Elf ideas for December, these printables are fun to pair with the scavenger hunt:

• Elf on the Shelf candy cane hunt – Hide 12 candy canes around the house for a quick morning surprise.
• Elf on the Shelf arrival letters – A simple way to welcome your Elf back at the start of the month.
• Elf on the Shelf notes – Little messages that keep the magic going without much prep.
• Elf door under construction – A fun setup for your Elf’s “entrance” night.
• Printable Elf on the Shelf games – Light holiday activities for family nights or weekends.
• Elf memory game – A quick, low-prep option kids can play with your Elf’s photos.
• Printable Elf Hats – Great for silly family photos.
• Elf on the Shelf goodbye letters – A sweet way to wrap up the Elf’s final day.

Get Your Free Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt Printable Here!

If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free PDF.

Last Updated on 1 December 2025 by Clare Brown