2016 Spring Hike

As we approach Summer, it is time to start getting yourself in hiking mode. What better way to do that than with a nice hike through the park? Let’s start with some details about the hike itself. We will be hiking approximately 4 miles in Pennypack Park. The hike will begin and end at the parking lot off of Rhawn Street at Holmehurst Ave. There will be several stops along the hike to take a drink and have a handful of trail food. We will also stop to have a light lunch along the trail. With stops the hike should take approximately 2.5-3 hours but that ultimately depends on the scouts.

The path we will be taking is a local path that will start with approximately 2.5 miles of unpaved trail followed by 1.2 miles of paved trail ending with about a quarter mile unpaved again. This is a very flat trail and there isn’t much in the way of inclines, declines nor actual hiking obstacles such as rocky terrain etc…As with any other scouting event, preparation is key. While it is not a hot summer day, maintaining hydration, adequate energy levels and protecting your skin are the three most important things to keep in mind. EVERY Person, youth & adult, will be required to carry a filled water bottle with them as well has have some trail food with them.

It is also important to remember that you will need to carry whatever you bring with you for the entire hike, so try not to overdo it. Each boy should be able to carry his own gear and it is recommended that he bring a backpack to carry his stuff.

So what do you need to bring along? Let’s get right down to it…

Water Bottle filled with WATER ONLY
Scout Cap or baseball cap
Class A or Class B uniform preferred
Long Pants
Good Walking/Hiking shoes
Spare Socks
Pocket First Aid Kit
Whistle
Trail Food
Light Bagged Lunch (nothing heavy, may have a small sports drink with lunch but no soda, juice, or other sugary drinks)
Sunscreen
Bug Spray

Some additional information that you may find useful

Hiking Safety
- Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
- Never hike alone; use the buddy system.
- Dress properly for the weather and environment.
- Wear sun and insect protection
- Take an extra pair of socks in case you need to change.
- Obey traffic signs and signals.
- Avoid hiking along roadways.
- Stay on the trail.
- Be alert to your surroundings.
- Don’t litter as you hike.
- Be alert to dangerous animals, insects, and plants. Never touch a wild animal.
- Take 1 pint of water for each hour you will be hiking. Never drink untreated water.