Hiking Program

Program Goal

This Program invites the scouts to be more active in the outdoors, to learn more about the environment, practice “Leave No Trace”, and learn what type of wild animals and birds live in Middle Tennessee. They will explore the outdoors, learn how to use a map, read a compass, and go hiking in fun and exciting places. The main objective of the program is teaching Scouts how to be good stewards of the land. 

The program is rewards based and after the Scout has been on three hikes, he/she will receive a Pack 351 backpack to keep all their hiking essentials. The backpacks can be personalized with either Cub Scout or State Park patches. Starting with the first hike beads will be awarded for each mile they hike. The beads will be displayed on a lanyard that attaches to the backpack.

When Will the Hikes Take Place?

• Once a month.
• On weekends, either Saturday or Sunday. 
• Weather dependent so changes on short notice could occur. 
• The hikes will not overlap with other Pack activities.

Program Rules and Guidelines

• Hike lengths will range from 2-7 miles.
• We will use the Buddy System on all hikes.
• All Scouts need to carry their own backpack with the 6 hiking essentials. 
• Scouts are required to always have a parent-guardian on the hike with them. 
• Scouts can wear either their class A or B uniforms. When in a group it is good to be identified as part of that group. 
• Please make sure you and your Scout have the appropriate shoes for the hike. 
• On longer hikes we will eat lunch on the trail, practicing “Leave No Trace”.
• Don’t forget insect repellant. 
• Siblings may participate. It is up to the parent/guardian to decide if younger children can maintain a consistent pace and can hike the designated distance. Only Scouts will receive hiking awards. 
• An adult leader is assigned to the “tail” and “lead” positions. No one is allowed behind or ahead of these individuals. The Pack hikes as a unit. We start together, break together, with everyone following the same trail. 
• Hiking mileage will be awarded only for Pack, Den or Council sanctioned events. All Mileage that is earned must be recorded by a leader. 
• NO DOGS allowed on pack hikes.

Hiking Achievements

Number of Hikes	Award
3 Hikes	Pack 351 Backpack
1 Mile	Red Bead
5 Miles	Blue Bead
10 Miles	Yellow Bead
20 Miles	White Bead
30 Miles	Orange Bead
40 Miles	Purple Bead
50 Miles	Black Bead

Hiking Etiquette