Hiking MB (1) - 10-mile Hike (3/9/2024)

Our troop set out on an unforgettable 10-mile hike as part of our journey toward earning the Hiking Merit Badge. The hike started off like any other, but somewhere a little before the halfway mark, a wrong turn, or maybe a navigation problem, led us off the path. Suddenly, we were heading down a steep slope that was never a part of our original hike. The solution was resolved quickly, with the adult leads taking control, checking our maps, and retracing our steps. After a bit of backtracking, we found our way again.

Just then, we came across a creek that had swelled from recent rains. There was no bridge, just a bunch of large rocks scattered throughout the width of the creek, so we crossed it! Some of us got our shoes and pants a little soaked, but it made the hike even more memorable.

Later, when we finally reached the halfway mark, and our lunch break, we found the perfect spot to rest—a massive broken tree that had fallen across on a grassy part of the hill. We all climbed up, sat down, and pulled out our mugs to make hot chocolate. That little break was probably the best part of the whole hike. By the time we reached the end of the trail, we were exhausted and dirty. The hike tested us, but it also gave us a stronger bond as a troop!

By Pahal Sah and Rannvi Telkala