[pct-l] Scout Merit Badge Hikes

[russ.logerwell at hp.com (Logerwell, Russell M)]

Several concerned hikers have issued warnings about over-doing with
young scouts. 
Thanks for the candid replies -- First-hand Experience is greatly
appreciated! 
 
I guess I should have given more info on our pre-conditioning. 
 
We are doing a series (5-7) of 10-mile hikes near Corvallis with hills
500-1000' about every other weekend. Maybe North-side Mary's Peak with
2300' in 5.5 miles prior to any long trips. These boys are just
finishing the Cycling MB with 10, 15, 25 and 50 mile rides, so they are
in fair physical shape. 
 
I'll definitely watch their endurance levels -- I do want to encourage
their enjoyment, not squelch their spirits. And boot fit/foot care will
be stressed. It is definitely something to work up to over the Summer
and Fall. 
 
My hope was a downhill section of the PCT or along a river for the long
day hike.
 
Any recommendations on hikes?

Warmest regards,
Russ Logerwell
  

	-----Original Message-----
	From: GSL38@aol.com [mailto:GSL38@aol.com] 
	Sent: Thursday, July 08, 2004 1:48 PM
	To: goforth@cnw.com; kduff@ix.netcom.com;
pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net; Logerwell, Russell M
	Subject: Re: [pct-l] Scout Merit Badge Hikes
	
	
	>
	> I am working with Boy Scouts in Troop 3 in Corvallis, Oregon
on their
	> Hiking Merit Badge.
	>
	> This will culminate with a 20-mile dayhike -- and of course
the PCT came
	> to mind.
	>>
	>
	
	I agree with goforth.  I am a backpacking advisor for Girl
Scouts and work with girls ranging from 4th grade to 12th grade.  The
girls start out on shorter hikes/backpacks and each month they increase
their mileage.  Some of these girls have backpacked the Grand Canyon and
I still do not push them to do 20 miles in a day (they would kill me if
I did).  The girls hike/backpack only on the PCT.  As I was also an
Asst. Scoutmaster for Boy Scouts Venture Crew, I've been on the 20 miler
with the boys.  Since the 20 miler is a requirement for the Hiking Merit
Badge, maybe select terrain which is not as rugged for their age and
ability.  Make sure the boys are conditioned for the hike and work up to
20 miles.  Once they are ready, select an area of the PCT which would
allow a jump out in case the boys cannot do the entire 20 miles.  There
are small segments of the PCT in Oregon which the boys could use as
conditioning hikes in preparation for the 20 miler.  It would give you
an opportunity to judge each boy's ability to actually do the 20 miles.
	 
	Donna Smith
	Girl Scout Troop 3000 Backpacking Advisor