History of Scouting Trail (HOST) Inaugural Event Memorial Day Weekend

The History & Future of the History Of Scouting Trail

Initially developed as a fundraiser for Inner-City and D.C. Scouting, it has grown to be much much more. Developed originally by P-B, an area Scout Historian, the H.O.S.T. experience is part - Challenge Trail - Treasure Hunt - History Hike - and all fun. Utilizing the National Monuments and Landmarks of Washington D.C., the Trail links each part to some historically significant link to the History of Scouting. The Boy Scouts of America itself, was born right here in Washington, D.C. Did you know that all Eagle Scout Awards in the early years were presented at the White House? Or when was the last year that all Scoutmasters were officially paid? You will - this and more interesting fun facts and stories when you go on the Trail.

The Trail will eventually be a series of 3 Hikes, each progressively longer and more challenging. The first one to open will be the 6 mile Colin Livingstone Hike that begins at the Taft Memorial Bridge, the first Honorary National President of the BSA, and ends at one of the three 'Special Partners' that have teamed up with this project - The Newseum, The International Spy Museum, and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. The Hikes will have clues by the White House, The Ellipse, The Washington Monument, The WWII Memorial, The Boy Scout Commemorative Tribute Memorial and even the exact place of the origin of the Boy Scouts of America. Walk where the grandfathers of todays Scouts walked with Baden-Powell, Dan Beard, E.T. Seton. and James E. West.

Once complete and the challenges are fulfilled, the hikers are eligible to purchase a very special Hike Medal and patch.

Though the Hikes will all be eventually open to everyone, Scouts and non-Scouts, a special invitation will be forwarded to the 50,000 Scouts and 200,000 visitors expected in D.C. because of the National Jamboree this summer. The launch of the H.O.S.T. will be something special for area Scouts. The Inaugural Weekend of the H.O.S.T. will be Memorial Day Weekend, and will be open ONLY to Units and their friends and families from the National Capital Area Council. And for this Inaugural event a special 24k gold plated and individually numbered from 1 to 3000 medal will be issued. The Trail will be open for decades, but this weekend is the only time this medal will ever be offered - and only to the first 3000 that sign up! Units can sign up for Sat or Sun or Mon of that weekend!

Also a special 2.5 mile History Hike will be available for younger Cubs, those with mobility issues, or those who want more challenge. The questions and clues on this Hike will be different and though not a medal, a very special award will be available for those completing this shorter Hike. A memory of being there when it started by participating in the inaugural launch - and earn the chance to purchase the special trail medal - then be one of the first 3,000 hikers!

Sign up today for the Inaugural Weekend of the History Of Scouting Trail.