Spring Hike
Annual spring hike open to all dens and families.
Overview
A pack-wide hike held in April that gives every den a chance to get outdoors together. The hike fulfills rank-specific Outdoor Adventure requirements and helps Scouts practice trail skills. Destinations rotate each year based on trail conditions and group size.
Timeline / Checklist
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| March | Identify site, check trail conditions, obtain permits, plan logistics |
| April | Execute the hike |
Event Details
Past Destinations
- Peebles Island State Park (October 2024) — Red trail, ~2 miles, Cohoes NY
- Thacher Park — North Trail, scenic views
- Huyck Preserve — Nature trails
- Mohheconnuck Nature Preserve — Nature trails
Advancement Tie-Ins
Each rank has Outdoor Adventure requirements that can be fulfilled during pack hikes:
| Rank | Adventure | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Lion (Mountain Lion) | Identify six essentials, 20-min walk, identify natural vs. manmade, learn S.A.W. | |
| Tiger (Tigers in the Wild) | Six essentials, outdoor code, 20-min walk, animal identification | |
| Wolf (Paws on the Path) | Six essentials, buddy system, outdoor code/Leave No Trace, 30-min walk | |
| Bear (Bear Habitat) | Prepare essentials, map route, 1-mile walk, wildlife signs | |
| Webelos (Walkabout) | Prepare essentials for 2-mile walk, BSA SAFE checklist, first aid demo |
What to Bring
Appropriate clothes and shoes. Bring Cub Scout Six Essentials if possible: first aid kit, water bottle, trail food, flashlight, sun protection, whistle.
Coordination
- The Program Chair coordinates site selection and logistics
- Den Leaders ensure den attendance, assist with supervision, and track advancement requirements completed during the hike
- The Cubmaster supports the event and attends
Roles Involved
- Program Chair — coordinates site selection and logistics
- Cubmaster — supports the event and attends
- Den Leaders — ensure den attendance and assist with supervision