Boy Scouts of America

Hiking

SUMMARY

Hiking is a great way to spend your time in the outdoors. Hikes are also good ways to get into better shape for more strenuous activities. Hikes can range from covering just a short distance to the 20-mile hike required for the Hiking merit badge. Some hikes might be on maintained trails that are relatively flat; others are on rough terrain that is physically demanding. Regardless of how long a hike is, it is important to be prepared.

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Decide where you will go and review the route on a map. Make sure the hike is within your capabilities and that you are prepared for the terrain.
  • Recruit at least one buddy to hike with you. It will be more fun and safer, too.
  • Always let someone know where you are going, when you are leaving, and when you will return. That will ensure that, if something goes awry on the hike, someone will know that you haven’t returned and will start looking for you.
  • Review the weather for the area you are hiking in. Will it be sunny, raining, snowing? Windy or calm? Plan accordingly, including considering postponing the hike if the weather is especially inclement.
  • Bring the 10 Scout Basic Essentials with you. Doing so will help you be prepared for most situations that might arise.
    • Pocketknife or multitool: A clean, sharp pocketknife can come in handy for a variety of situations.
    • First-aid kit: While a youth or adult leader will bring a group first-aid kit along, you should bring a personal kit, too.
    • Clothing: Bring extra clothing to match the forecast and be ready for changes in the weather. You might bring an extra layer or two. Comfortable and appropriate footwear will help protect you. Break in new footwear before heading out.
    • Rain gear: Besides protecting you from getting drenched, it can be used to block the wind.
    • Flashlight or headlamp: Finding your way in the dark is critical.
    • Trail food: Snacks like granola, dried fruits, and trail bars can give you the energy you need to complete your hike.
    • Water: Staying hydrated is important, regardless of whether it is a hot or cold day.
    • Matches and fire starters: You might not be planning to need a fire, but it might become critical in an emergency.
    • Sun protection: Includes a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Sun burns can happen even on cloudy days.
    • Map and compass: Knowing where you are going and how to get back are absolutely critical. Know how to use the map and compass before you begin your hike. Plan how you will communicate with emergency personnel in the event of an emergency. This might be a satellite phone if there isn’t cell service.

RESOURCES

 

Reviewed January 26, 2024. 

Bray Barnes

Director, Global Security Innovative
Strategies

Bray Barnes is a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, Silver
Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Learning for Life Distinguished
Service Award. He received the Messengers of Peace Hero award from
the royal family of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and he’s a life member of
the 101st Airborne Association and Vietnam Veterans Association. Barnes
serves as a senior fellow for the Global Federation of Competitiveness
Councils, a nonpartisan network of corporate CEOs, university presidents, and
national laboratory directors. He has also served as a senior executive for the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, leading the first-responder program
and has two U.S. presidential appointments

David Alexander

Managing Member Calje

David Alexander is a Baden-Powell Fellow, Summit Bechtel Reserve philanthropist, and recipient of the Silver Buffalo and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the founder of Caljet, one of the largest independent motor fuels terminals in the U.S. He has served the Arizona Petroleum Marketers Association, Teen Lifeline, and American Heart Association. A triathlete who has completed hundreds of races, Alexander has also mentored the women’s triathlon team at Arizona State University.

Glenn Adams

President, CEO & Managing Director
Stonetex Oil Corp.

Glenn Adams is a recipient of the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the former president of the National Eagle Scout Association and established the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award. He has more than 40 years of experience in the oil, gas, and energy fields, including serving as a president, owner, and CEO. Adams has also received multiple service awards from the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers.