Pack 39 Hiking Program - "Scouting is outing"

Many of us have heard the phrase. At its core is the idea that scouting, though it is many things, is about adventure. When we think of scouting we imagine a Pack on the trail, heading off to explore the known and unknown; prepared, willing, and able.

The Pack 39 Cub Scout Hiking Program is intended to help get the boys away from the Wii and TV to spend a little time outdoors, learn a little bit about the wildlife, and develop a sense of comfort, respect, and ability in the natural world.

The Program also helps cubs prepare for Boy Scouts. Many Boy Scout troops camp at least once every month. As the Pack 39 Hiking Program will meet once a month and log miles, the cubs will become accustomed to monthly outings in Troop 40, our Boy Scout group. Hikes will range from 3 to 7 miles and build to a 10 mile hike! Cubs who regularly hike with the pack will be well prepared for any adventure they enjoy as a Boy Scout.

Hikers will also earn achievements every 10 miles! At 30 miles the cubs will earn a walking stick on which they will attach their achievements. These achievements will be presented at Pack meetings and a special ceremony will be conducted for those earning walking sticks.

Of course, scouting is also a family event so families may hike together! On longer hikes we will typically eat lunch on the trail (practicing “Leave No Trace” at all times). Scouts will carry water bottles and may use day packs (or parent-guardian acts at the beast of burden). On warmer weather hikes, a small water bottle is not enough for even the smallest Scout. We will hike in rain, snow, or shine as long as there is no call for lightning or other extreme weather.

The first hike is May 15th at the Bridgeport City Park. Meet at the Benedum Center tennis court parking lot at 10am. A hiking patch is awarded for the first outing! Hikes will continue every third Saturday of the month at different locations within about an hour of Bridgeport. Hikes will include Rail-Trails, Cooper’s Rock, Valley Falls, Tygart Lake, Blackwater Falls, Cathedral State Park, an excursion to Fort Necessity and other locations!

Contact us for more information or to confirm first hike on May 15th.