Pack and Den Hiking

Pack 167 Hikes

Cub Scout hiking involves organized hikes where Scouts, along with their families and leaders, get to experience nature while learning about the environment, wildlife, and outdoor safety. It is a fantastic way for Scouts to explore the great outdoors, stay active, and learn important skills along the way. Whether it’s a short nature walk or a longer hike on a trail, hiking offers fun and adventure for Scouts of all ages. Hiking can range from simple, local walks to more challenging trails, depending on the age group and experience level of the Scouts. Cub Scout hiking is designed to be:

• Age-Appropriate:

  • Lions and Tigers (Kindergarten and 1st Grade): Short, easy hikes (1 mile or less) with plenty of breaks and time for exploration.

  • Wolf and Bear Scouts (2nd and 3rd Grade): Slightly longer hikes (up to 2 miles) with an emphasis on map reading and learning outdoor skills.

  • Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts (4th and 5th Grade): More challenging hikes (up to 3 miles or more), learning about navigation, Leave No Trace principles, and outdoor preparedness.

• Safe: Cub Scout hiking emphasizes safety, including:

  • Carrying the Cub Scout Six Essentials (water, trail food, first-aid kit, whistle, flashlight, sun protection).

  • Wearing appropriate clothing, including closed-toed shoes.

  • Staying on designated trails, keeping the group together, and following the buddy system.

• Two-Deep Leadership: At least two registered adult leaders must be present during any Cub Scout hike to ensure safety and proper supervision, following BSA’s Youth Protection policies.

• Family-Oriented: As with most Cub Scout activities, hiking is family-friendly. Parents, guardians, and siblings are encouraged to join the hike, making it a great opportunity for family bonding.

What Scouts Learn on Hikes

• Outdoor Skills: Scouts practice reading maps, identifying trail signs, and learning about hiking safety.

• Nature Awareness: Hikes provide opportunities for Scouts to observe wildlife, plants, and ecosystems up close. Leaders often incorporate educational stops to discuss nature and environmental stewardship.

• Physical Fitness: Hiking encourages Scouts to be active, building their endurance, balance, and overall fitness.

• Leave No Trace: Scouts learn to respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles, such as staying on trails and packing out all trash to keep the environment clean.

Types of Cub Scout Hikes

• Nature Hikes: Explore local parks, forests, or nature reserves while learning about plants, animals, and ecosystems.

• Service Hikes: Scouts combine hiking with community service by picking up litter or participating in trail maintenance as part of their hike.

• Adventure Hikes: For older Cub Scouts, hikes may include more challenging terrain or longer distances, giving them a taste of what’s to come in Scouts BSA.

Hiking Etiquette:

• Respect wildlife and other hikers on the trail.

• Stay on marked paths and avoid damaging plants or disturbing natural habitats.

• Always hike with a buddy, and keep the group together.

Why Participate in Cub Scout Hiking?

• Exploration & Adventure: Hiking allows Scouts to explore new places and experience the beauty of nature firsthand.

• Skill Development: Scouts learn essential outdoor skills like navigation, first aid, and how to handle various outdoor challenges.

• Teamwork & Leadership: Hikes foster a sense of teamwork, as Scouts learn to look out for one another, follow the leader, and work as a group.

• Fun & Fitness: Hiking is a great way for Scouts to stay active, have fun, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Get ready to lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and hit the trail with Cub Scout hiking! Every step is an adventure waiting to happen!