[Philmont] training treks

I want to take a moment to focus on that part of the post that states: "we are not a backpacking troop (yet)", not for the purpose of criticizing the poster, but for the general good.

In my troop, as a matter of policy, we schedule one backpacking weekend a year, on the AT or similar terrain. We try to make the trip within the ability range of all but the brand newest of the new scouts. A few of our adults are not up to backpacking, and some of the youth find it not their cup of tea, but we make it a point that the skill be introduced once yearly, even knowing that some will not sign up for that trip.

Two regularly scheduled monthly weekends for backpacking, we feel in our situation, would cramp the style of those who can't or don't backpack, so we keep it at one. We don't let it go to zero, however.

Knowing that this type of trip will appear on the schedule, like clockwork, usually gets the scouts to purchase a backpack, a sleeping bag both light and compact, and other suitable gear, so they're at least on the road to backpacking.

Our backpacking scouts also are aware that, if they pick a weekend and round up a group of scouts (however limited) willing to commit to that weekend, I will round up at least one other adult and take them on extra backpacking trips. The part about picking a weekend and making a committment seems to stop them in their tracks, but the offer is out there. I'll be darned if I'll schedule an extra weekend over and above the committments I've already made to the troop program, and then chase the scouts to sign up.

Our summer program includes backpacking and canoe treks.

Although the Scout troop of my youth was all backpacking, all the time, and I am aware that some take that approach, we think this balance is best for the youth in our area. We don't, however, go to the opposite extreme, all car camping, all the time.

Well, that's all I have.

Bill Sheehan, ASM
Troop 55, Pitman, NJ
Philmont '70,'72, AA '01,'03,'05,'07 &'08

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Received on Tue Dec 18 09:42:02 2007