It was quite a weekend for the scouts and leaders on their trek to Webb's Woods. Once again the weather did not fair well for a backpacking adventure. It began as a fine drizzle and turned into a steady rain. The forecast for the day indicated it would let up in the morning, but it stayed with us all the way until after dinner. Everyone seemed to enjoyed backpacking the trail on the way out. We stopped for lunch at Ottawa Point Picnic Area were a hungry crew ate what was described as "the best tuna and crackers I've ever had." There was some confusion near the end of the journey. To get to Webb's Woods requires hiking through a half mile section of forest that does not have a set path. Using a map, compass, and GPS we navigated around a large ravine and headed uphill to our campsite. The rain let up just enough for us to set up camp. Then came a fun task of building a campfire in the rain. Slowly but surely the fire came to life.

While part of the group worked on the fire others set to the task of making supper. There was no need to find a place to store leftovers when this group set down to business. Sometime while we were eating the rain finally let up and we built a good size fire. Everyone gathered around to dry off themselves and other articles that became wet during the day. Spirts rose as the group began to warm up and dry off. In the evening we had a fun campfire with songs, jokes, and skits put on by Matt, Matthew, and Steven. Everyone turned in early after a full day of backpacking. In the morning we broke camp and had a quick breakfast of oatmeal, hot chocolate, and beef jerky. The trip through the ravine and woods was tough, but seemed to go better than the day before. After that we hiked on the road and on some very muddy trails. All in all it was a great experience and a challenge that finished on a high note. Those setting out for high adventure were Alex U., David H., DJ, Jared, Kevin, Matt K., Matthew, Steven, Mr. Makowski, Mr. Mayher, and Mrs. Mayher.

Webb's Woods Backpacking Photo Album

Date and Time of Departure: Saturday, October 8th, 8:30am - Chippewa Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook Parking Lot

Purpose: This is an overnight backpacking trip taking us through Cleveland MetroParks Brecksville Reservation to a private camping area on the property of Mr. Webb. It is meant as an introduction to backpacking skills and takes camping in the outdoors to the next level.

Shakedown: There will be a shakedown on Friday, October 7th, 7:00pm in the Upper Old Church for all troop members going on the outing. We will be packaging our food, distributing crew gear, and checking packs. All backpacking participants must attend this important meeting!

Location: Chippewa Creek Gorge Parking Lot is located at the corner of Route 82 and Chippewa Creek Dr. right near the entrance to Brecksville Reservation. Webb's Woods is off of Snowville Rd in Brecksville, OH.

Directions:

1. Head East on Route 82 passed Route 21 to Chippewa Creek Dr
2. Turn Right (South) on Chippewa Creek Dr
3. Take immediate left into parking lot for Chippewa Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook

Emergency Phone Numbers: 440-623-4992 and 216-469-4319

Cost: $10.00 per person (due at shakedown meeting on October 7th)

Estimated Time of Return: Sunday, October 9th, 10:30am - Chippewa Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook Parking Lot

Items to Bring:

• Backpacking Gear (try to get as close to this list as possible)