Backpacking October
13-14, 2007 |
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Backpacking October
13-14, 2007 |
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| The morning
of October 13th we set out on our backpacking trip. In
the past, the troop's backpacking trips have been plague
with bad weather, but this one had among the fairest
weather witnessed in a long time. We started out at the
parking lot in Johnson's picnic area and followed a
combination of bridle paths and the Buckeye Trail. The
going was smooth and pleasant and after a full morning we
arrived at our destination tired, but happy. Before
setting up camp we ate our lunch of tuna, crackers and
trail mix. Then we set up camp at the Top O'Ledges picnic
area not far from where another troop was camping. After
setting up we decided to explore Whipp's Ledges, one of
natures nearby wonders. We spent hours exploring this
rock formation that could be called a cliff. One
highlight was climbing to the top of a large isolated
rock and taking in the view. Afterwards we just lazed
around our fire and campsite, doing various relaxed
activities. For supper we prepared and devoured red beans
and rice with pudding cups for desert. The well water
from the pump was not the best, we'll know to stash some
the next time we make this trip. Once clean up was
complete we resumed our relaxed state around the fire.
The group was tired from the full day of activities and
headed off to sleep just after 9:00pm with a clear sky
and cooler temperatures. The following morning we awoke at 7:00am and packed up our gear speedily and efficiently. The crew had a quick breakfast of beef jerky, cereal bars, hot chocolate, and oatmeal then departed for the short hike back. Although much shorter, the route provided a few challenges such as hiking down and through Whipp's Ledges and then a patch of mud and water by the creek that was tough to avoid. Our group reached the parking lot without a hitch and ahead of schedule. We concluded the successful trek with a pleasant ride home. Packing their share of the load were Allen, Greg, John, Kevin, Kurtis, Matthew O., Mr. Drown, Mr. Makowski, and Mr. Owen. Sorry, no pictures this time. |
Trip Plan for Backpacking at Hinckley
| Date and Time of
Departure: Saturday, October 13th, 8:30am - Parking
Lot Behind Old Church Purpose: To learn the basic skills of backpacking by taking a short trip. This terrain is considered moderate with some hills. It is a great trip for all scouts with an interest in backpacking. Location: Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation, Top-O-Ledges Picnic Area Cost: $15.00 per scout (due at troop meeting on October 2nd) Shakedown: All scouts and adults attending must attend the Shakedown meeting on October 11th at 7:00pm in the Upper Old Church. This is when we assemble our food, assign tents and issue crew gear. Any scouts that have not been on a backpacking trip must bring their backpack and all gear they plan to take for inspection. Estimated Time of Return: Sunday, October 14th, 10:30am - Behind Old Church Items to Bring (Backpacking):
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