Scout Ski Day at Marquette Mountain

Grabbing some air

Can winter weather get any better? The sun was out, the temperatures went up to a balmy 26F, and the lunches were  hot. Oh, and the snow, though not powered, was nicely groomed.

Our Troop joined Scouts and Scouters from Troops, Packs and a Crew from across the U.P. to enjoy the slopes, the lifts, and some good company. Four Scouts earned their Snow Sports merit badge, though none from our Troop this year. It's a difficult badge to get because it requires more than just basic skills.

A Tin Turtle lunch gave the boys a break and the energy to blast on throughout the afternoon. Some parents skied, some enjoyed down time in the Alpine lodge, and most enjoyed both. This was a great opportunity to meet Scouters and parents from around the area. No doubt we'll see some again at next week's Cub Winter Games or May's Spring Camporee.

Oh, and as is often the case, don't forget to check out the event's album!

Klondike Derby

The boys have come a long way in their fire building skills

Wikipedia describes the Klondike Derby as a winter Scouting event that tests skills and leadership along the theme of the Klondike Gold Rush. However, here in the Pere Marquette area, the derby tested patrols from five area troops along a decidedly more Hobbity theme - specifically Peter Jackson's third movie of his Hobbit trilogy

In addition to carrying staffs and dragging a sled, the boys practiced lashings, compass reading, orienteering, knot tying, shelter building, and, of course, fire building. They also raced against the clock, winched their sled up hill, and defended against invading orc hordes.

The exercise and hot soup kept the boys warm, and a dozen volunteers kept everything else running smoothly. What a great tradition!

And if you've never seen a horde of invading orcs, you'll want to check out the event's photo album.

November Hike

Who here thinks he can out-run a bear?

The fall snow started a little early this year, on October 31st, and it hasn't let up much. After a week or so, the big wet flakes finally started to stick. What a great time to take the Scouts on a walk through the woods!

A good fall hike makes for a great opportunity to practice old skills, learn new skills, and work on a few promotion requirements... like taking a five mile hike, cooking lunch over a stove or campfire, and reading a compass (eh, Carl?).

Along the way, we identified some animal signs, practiced "leave no trace" hiking, and soaked in our home town's raw beauty. Heavy snow showers kept everything fresh and white for us and made our hot lunches all the more welcome.

We finished up our hike on schedule and with full stomachs - if not at our intended destination. What a great way to spend part of a Saturday! Hopefully we can fit in another hike before we have to strap on snowshoes for the winter.

Oh, and don't forget to check out the hike's album!

Carp River Hike

Scouts - inspiring future generations

High adventure, that's where Scouts find fun. Today we took another step toward high adventure with a quick shake-down hike along Carp River to Unnamed Morgan Falls. While on route, we saw some of the handiwork of an Eagle Scout who had gone before.

Six Scouts, two siblings, a couple of dogs, and six adults hit the trail for a relatively short three miles. The trek gave the boys a chance to test out packs and boots. This will be useful as we undertake longer and more difficult hikes.

When we reached the falls, we offloaded our gear, uploaded some lunch, and explored the area. The mosquitoes were about Yooper-normal as were the fish. That is to say, the mosquitoes bit and the fish did not. However, luck was with us and we made it back to the cars before the rain hit.

I think we'll be back. The mountain biking trails thereabouts looked quite inspiring.

Also check out our trip album!

Klondike Derby

Exiting the secret entrance into Laketown

Bilbo and Thorin's company continued their quest for the Arkenstone this year. Threatened by orcs and spiders, they crossed a river, forest, and lake, and faced hunger, injury, and many other challenges. Yet they maintained their spirits with song and cheer and hot soup until at last they found the fearsome dragon, Smaug, high in the snowy mountains.

Troop 321 fielded two patrols, and both were awarded numerous ribbons for their many achievements. Next year they will have the chance to complete their quest and return safely home. Will they make it? We can only hope.

Some Scouts chronicled their exploits in song and others with many images, each according to the custom of his land. Our local bards were out as well to share our exploits with the world. Thanks also to the many adult volunteers from our Troop and from Pere Marquette zone for all the work they put into this event. It's a big deal, and the boys enjoyed it immensely.