Backpacking LighterThe Scoutmaster Perspective

Feb 25, 2012Capitol Area Council

Austin, TX

Scoutmaster Perspective• Sam Francis, Scoutmaster Troop 990, Austin,

Texas– 3 Summer Philmont Treks – 1 Philmont Winter Adventure

Scoutmaster Perspective• Pat Rabun, Assistant Scoutmaster Troop 326,

Fort Worth, Texas– 2 Summer Philmont Treks (with another in 2012)

Scoutmaster Perspective• Why go lightweight?– Hiking and backpacking = core elements of

Scouting– Build experience and knowledge for future high

adventure– More fun!

Why? … High Adventure

Challenges• Age/physical differences• Physical growth and numerous gear purchases• Maturity, experience, ability to take care of

gear

Challenges• Shifting the mindset• Inadequate preparation • Cost• Competition with other Scouting events

Implementation Ideas• Step by step; inch by inch; a little bit at a time• Gear checklist; multiple skill levels; training• Group purchases• Hiking MB• Priority hit list: what to buy first

Questions and Discussion