Scouts and Backpacking

Our Scouts enthusiastically take on the challenge of preparing, launching and completing a backpacking trip. As a Scoutmaster I appreciate the Patrol and skill building opportunities but the real reason we go backpacking is the sheer joy (often achieved through great effort and discomfort) of the experience.

Backpacking requires an expanded set of skills and attention to detail. Here are some resources that help us prepare for successful trips: Naismith’s Rule Scotsman W.W.

Naismith designed to predict the duration of a hike based on distance, terrain and other variables. Ten Essentials (yes, yet again) With a Quiz With all the “excitement” that the wilderness can throw at you (weather, critters, rough terrain, accidents), it seems to be only common sense that the hiker should be ready to meet it with at least the bare minimum of equipment. This minimum is usually referred to in hiking guides as the Ten Essentials.

Choosing a Backpacking Route Leading a good backpacking trip begins with tailoring the route to the ability of the group.

Mileage for mileage’s sake usually turns a good trip into an ordeal of endurance that Scouts may not want to repeat.

Better to have the Scouts eager to challenge a longer hike or a tougher trail than feel reluctant to try again. Some Sources of Backpacking Hints, Tips and Wisdom Backpacking requires choosing, packing and using gear selected for its lightest weight and greatest utility; a subject for lengthy conjecture, experimentation and development.

I imagine that the ratio of actual trail time is several times less than the endless study of gear and technique – something a real backpacker may enjoy as much as actual backpacking.

Trail Information Great web resources for trail information Freezer Bag Cooking – Worth a Look Freezer bag cooking is easy, inexpensive and an especially great way for Scouts (or anyone for that matter) to prepare food on backpacking trips.