Register NOW

Spring Basic Backpacking
Feb 28-29, 2020

Winter Basic Backpacking
TBD, 2020

Desert Basic Backpacking
TBD 2020
Basic Backpacking
Learn the skills you need to take your scouts into the wild with confidence.
The course is organized around three components:
1. Classroom session focused on deep content (Friday evening / Saturday)
2. "In the field" map & compass day hike
3. Overnight backpacking trek with fellow classmates & a HAT Instructor
Syllabus
Adult Leadership
Bear Management
Clothing
Low Impact Camping
Mountain Medicine
Places To Go
Scout's Own
Stoves
Tents
Camps & Parks Guide
Backpacks
Boots
Food Planning
Map & Compass
Physical Conditioning
Putting It All Together
Sleeping Bags
Ten Essentials
Wilderness Survival
HAT Awards

John's Meadow, San Gorgonio Wilderness
Silver Fir Trail

Sponsoring Council
Verdugo Hills Council
Award Dimensions
4” x 4”
Summary
Backpack 2+ nights on trails near the Camp Silver Fir in the Western Sierras, east of Fresno/Clovis.
Map Link (where applicable)
External Reference (where applicable)
Detailed Requirements
1. Each person must complete 2 conditioning hikes and 2 overnight backpacks prior to hiking the Silver Fir Trail.
2. It is required that units spend the first night (prior to leaving on the trail) at Camp Silver Fir to acclimatize, and that they check in with the Campmaster at Silver Fir prior to leaving on the trail. Units must make advanced reservations for Camp Silver Fir through the Verdugo Hills Council.
3. Units must obtain wilderness and fire permits from the Forest Service.
4. Participants must spend a minimum of two (2) nights on the trail.
5. Each participant must complete a minimum of 10 backpacking hours during the Trip.
6. Each participant must complete a 1‑hour conservation project approved by a local Ranger, or the Silver Fir Campmaster before the Trip, or while on the Silver Fir trail, or at camp silver fir.
7. It is required that units check in and make a written report of your Trip to the Silver Fir Campmaster upon returning from the trail..
8. Units must pack out and properly dispose of any trash generated on the Silver Fir trail.
9. While on the trip/trail adhere to the seven (7) principles of leave no trace outdoor ethics:
a. Plan Ahead and Prepare
b. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
c. Dispose of waste properly
d. Leave What You Find
e. Minimize Campfire Impacts
f. Respect Wildlife
g. Be Considerate of Other Visitors
10. Comply with the Area 4 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.