High Adventure Scouting Podcast

In this episode we explore setting up an independent Boundary Waters trip for your unit using a base camp instead of the traditional different campsite each night.  The Boundary Waters is an awesome place to take Scouts and an excellent way to get off the net.  Canoeing through the Minnesota wilderness is a classic trip.  I interviewed two Scouters from Troop 40 in Shiloh, IL - Greg Gunyon and Wes Wexell about their trip.  It is a great way to change up the traditional Boundary Waters trip.  A full breakdown of their trip is available at https://www.highadventurescouting.com/boundarywaters-basecamping.html

Floodwood Mountain Scout Reservation has been the ultimate site for High Adventure for over 50 yrs. Floodwood is located near Saranac Lake, NY about an hour west of Lake Placid in the heart of the Adirondacks. With its many lakes, streams, and High Peaks, Floodwood is perfectly located to offer a High Adventure challenge second to none.Choose either a canoe trek from our base located on Rollins Pond or backpacking trek into the High Peaks Wilderness. Accompanying your unit for your trek will be one of our experienced staff Voyagers, a trained wilderness guide. While 100% customizable canoe and backpacking treks are the mainstay of Floodwood, we also offer first class waterskiing/tubing, rock climbing/rappelling, archery, as well as many other day and overnight hikes and paddles.Floodwood is truly a special place in the Adirondacks and offers your unit the opportunity to create memories that will last forever!https://www.nnjbsa.org/floodwood/

The Salmon River High Adventure Base is an adventure with the Mountain West Council.Idaho's Salmon River, known as the "River of No Return," is one of the most unique in the world. Originating in the mountains of central Idaho, it flows through some of the most beautiful and pristine land in the United States before reaching its confluence with the Snake River. It is a free-flowing river, without a single dam anywhere on the 425 miles of its main steam. It is one of the longest such rivers in the continental United States, second only to the Yellowstone. Also, excepting Alaska, it is the longest undammed river contained entirely in a single state. The exact origins of the Salmon's nickname are lost to history. Some credit Lewis and Clark after they turned back, the only obstacle during their entire exploration they retreated from. Others say it was early pioneers who settled along the river as farmers and miners. Whoever first coined the phrase, the name is fitting. On average, the river loses nearly 20 feet of elevation for every mile, making for some intense whitewater. It also travels through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the second-largest wilderness in the lower 48. https://www.mountainwestcouncil.org/srhab

Lenhok'sin is a trek camp. They offer each Crew the opportunity to design their own program tailored to their level of experience and goals. Our primary program is a combination of backpacking and adventure activities. Backpack through the 4,000+ acres of Goshen Scout Reservation and some of the 35,000 acres of surrounding state wildlife game lands. Challenge your Crew to summit up to five peaks and earn our most challenging award! Stop along the way at four of our nine exciting programs.https://www.gotogoshen.org/

Scott Thiessen, Director for the Zink High Adventure Base (Z-base) and Jacob Southwick, High Adventure Director for the Indian Nations Council, discuss the coming 2022 season. Jack Zink high adventure base (ZBASE) is a high adventure leadership based program that will be operated by the local Indian Nations Council and serve Boy Scouts and Venture Scouts as well as high adventure enthusiasts on a regional basis. The leadership curriculum will provide an outdoor discovery based classroom designed to develop participants' leadership skills and learn more about themselves and others in a hands-on, active experience. The programs offered will be unique to not only the area, but to scouting in general. ZBASE will encompass 35,000 acres on Zink Ranch as well as 10,000 acres of Skiatook Lake.THE PURPOSE OF ZBASE IS THREEFOLD: become the premier regional (and eventually national) high adventure base, help maintain the relevance of the scouting principles to today's youth, and be seen as a leadership training center. Zink Ranch has a tradition of hosting various scouting activities and is a fitting site for this one of a kind high adventure base.https://zbase.camp/

This episode of the podcast features an interview with Jason Wilburn, Director of High Adventure Programs at the Michigan Crossroads Council about the 2023 season.  They operate two high adventure bases - Cole Canoe Base and the Great Lakes Sailing Adventure. Cole Canoe Basehttps://colecanoebase.com/Our high adventure program provides older scouts an opportunity to stray from the traditional summer camp experience and put their outdoor skills to the test, on canoe trips on three of Michigan's most scenic rivers- the Rifle River, the Fox-Manistique, and the Au Sable. For more information please see the High Adventure homepage to start planning for your adventure nowGreat Lakes Sailing Adventurehttps://michiganscouting.org/outdooradventures/great-lakes-sailing-adventure/The Retriever, a 52′ ketch, is an offshore sail training vessel where youth will learn the fundamentals of sailing, including sail trim, helmsmanship, navigation,  marine safety and skills used by seasoned sailors!Based in its home port of Mackinaw City, Michigan, the Retriever will call on harbors throughout the northern Great Lakes teaching valuable sailing skills along the way.  Program options include six (6) day – five (5) night cruises, and a 3 night Labor Day weekend. The Retriever is designed to accommodate a maximum of 10 youth and two (2) adults. Co-ed crews are welcome, but the advisor must contact the council in advance to discuss accommodation options.

This episode of the podcast is from the Live discussion from the Philmont Trek Talk Group.  During the August 2022 edition they discussed Tips from First Time Trekkers.  In addition to the regular panelists listed below, a few first time trekkers joined the group to give their impressions.   This is a longer than normal episode, but we wanted to put the whole discussion into one recording.  Our panelists:Sal Porto - 15 yr ASM w/ Troop 212, Fl & LNT Master Educator. 7 treks to Philmont & #8 in 2023. Philmont Ambassador & council lead advisor . Owns Suncoast Wilderness First Aid & is a WFA/CPR/AED instructor.Darrel Tadsen - 45yr Scouting veteran. 7yr SM, + many other Scouting roles. Current District Vice Chair. Multi-year adult crew advisor & council contingent advisor.Andy Parrish - High Adventure Chair Troop 152, IN. Led crews to Boundary Waters & Philmont.Outdoor adventurer & avid backpacker. YouTube Channel - Andy Parrish Outdoors- shares backpacking, gear reviews, trip reports, tips & tricks, & Philmont Gear.Jeff Cress - Skipper, Sea Scout Ship 4019, NC. Trekked @ PSR as a youth & adult Crew Advisor. Gear-Report.com Publisher. Produces gear & best-practices articles & videos on Philmont.Scott O'Mary - 5yr Troop 259B SM, Tx. Created a 3yr program for all 4 BSA high adventure camps. Crew advisor for 4 BSA high adventure treks - Philmont (Summer & Winter), Northern Tier & Bechtel Summit & is advisor on '22 Florida Sea Base trek.

In this episode, we interviewed a lead advisor who had just gotten off the trail at Philmont.  We are calling this a Philmont Hotwash to get the immediate impressions of a trek just off the trail.   We explore what worked, what didn't, and what he would change for another trip.  The lead advisor, Bryan King, organized a crew of 11 for a 12-day trek at Philmont Scout Ranch.  Mr. King is the immediate past Scoutmaster for Troop 85 in O'Fallon, IL.

This edition takes us back to the Philmont Trek Talk Group on Facebook.  The crew discusses Shakedown Hikes & Crew Prep for Philmont.  This will be split into two parts to make it easier to listen to in one session.    This is Part 2.  The panel:- Sal Porto is the Asst. scoutmaster with Troop 212 in Lutz Fl and has served in this role for the past 15 years. He is a Master Educator with LNT and teaches LNT for the Greater Tampa Bay Area council. He has been on 6 treks to Philmont since 2013, with trek 7 scheduled for 2022. Sal is a Philmont Ambassador and also the lead advisor on his council's Philmont contingents. He also owns and operates Suncoast Wilderness First Aid and is a WFA/CPR/AED instructor. Sal is also a Backpacking, Hiking and First aid merit badge counselor. He is retired after 30 years with the USPS.- Scott O'Mary is the scoutmaster at Troop 259B in Plano, Texas and has served in this role for the past 5 years. At Troop 259, he has created a 3-year program allowing scouts to attend all 4 BSA high adventure camps. In addition, Scott has served as crew advisor for 4 BSA high adventure treks - Philmont (Summer & Winter), Northern Tier and Bechtel Summit -- and is advisor to a Florida Sea Base trek in 2022. Scott is a Backpacking and Hiking merit badge counselor. His day job is with FedEx Services.- Darrel Tadsen is a veteran of 45 years in scouting. Scoutmaster for 7 years, plus many other unit, district and council leadership positions. Currently serving as District Vice Chair. Multi-year adult crew advisor and council contingent advisor. Have hiked more than a few philmont treks. Retired. Previously employed as business office manager at a local university. A person who has been bitten by the philmont bug.- Jeff Cress is the Skipper of Sea Scout Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC. He has trekked in the Philmont backcountry as a youth and adult Crew Advisor. Jeff is the Publisher at Gear-Report.com and has produced a variety of articles and videos covering gear and best-practices at Philmont Scout Ranch.- Rob Smith High Adventure Chair Troop 85 and Committee Chair for Crew 85 in Illinois. Crew advisor for 3 Philmont treks, Northern Tier & Sea Base, & ASM for 2 Troops at the Ntl Jamboree 05 & 17. Runs HighAdventureScouting.com providing info on BSA, Council, & independent high adventure opportunities. Full Facebook Live https://youtu.be/oBmu02mcBwo  

This edition takes us back to the Philmont Trek Talk Group on Facebook.  The crew discusses Shakedown Hikes & Crew Prep for Philmont.  This will be split into two parts to make it easier to listen to in one session.   This is part 1.The panel:- Sal Porto is the Asst. scoutmaster with Troop 212 in Lutz Fl and has served in this role for the past 15 years. He is a Master Educator with LNT and teaches LNT for the Greater Tampa Bay Area council. He has been on 6 treks to Philmont since 2013, with trek 7 scheduled for 2022. Sal is a Philmont Ambassador and also the lead advisor on his council's Philmont contingents. He also owns and operates Suncoast Wilderness First Aid and is a WFA/CPR/AED instructor. Sal is also a Backpacking, Hiking and First aid merit badge counselor. He is retired after 30 years with the USPS.- Scott O'Mary is the scoutmaster at Troop 259B in Plano, Texas and has served in this role for the past 5 years. At Troop 259, he has created a 3-year program allowing scouts to attend all 4 BSA high adventure camps. In addition, Scott has served as crew advisor for 4 BSA high adventure treks - Philmont (Summer & Winter), Northern Tier and Bechtel Summit -- and is advisor to a Florida Sea Base trek in 2022. Scott is a Backpacking and Hiking merit badge counselor. His day job is with FedEx Services.- Darrel Tadsen is a veteran of 45 years in scouting. Scoutmaster for 7 years, plus many other unit, district and council leadership positions. Currently serving as District Vice Chair. Multi-year adult crew advisor and council contingent advisor. Have hiked more than a few philmont treks. Retired. Previously employed as business office manager at a local university. A person who has been bitten by the philmont bug.- Jeff Cress is the Skipper of Sea Scout Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC. He has trekked in the Philmont backcountry as a youth and adult Crew Advisor. Jeff is the Publisher at Gear-Report.com and has produced a variety of articles and videos covering gear and best-practices at Philmont Scout Ranch.- Rob Smith High Adventure Chair Troop 85 and Committee Chair for Crew 85 in Illinois. Crew advisor for 3 Philmont treks, Northern Tier & Sea Base, & ASM for 2 Troops at the Ntl Jamboree 05 & 17. Runs HighAdventureScouting.com providing info on BSA, Council, & independent high adventure opportunities. Full Facebook Live https://youtu.be/oBmu02mcBwo  

An interview with Stephanie Kelly, Backcountry Trek Manager, for the Northern Lights High Adventure Base.   We discussed the upcoming 2022 season.This is the premier Alaskan High Adventure outdoor experience for scouts. Backpacking, hiking, canoeing, fishing and more!  The Northern Lights High Adventure Base is run by the Midnight Sun Council, Boy Scouts of America, based in Fairbanks, Alaska.The mission of the Base is to provide a remote outdoor experience to youth and adults within the Scouting program. www.alaskahighadventure.com 

This edition takes us back to the Philmont Trek Talk Group on Facebook.  The crew discusses Trek Selection for Philmont.  This will be split into two parts to make it easier to listen to in one session.  The panel:- Sal Porto is the Asst. scoutmaster with Troop 212 in Lutz Fl and has served in this role for the past 15 years. He is a Master Educator with LNT and teaches LNT for the Greater Tampa Bay Area council. He has been on 6 treks to Philmont since 2013, with trek 7 scheduled for 2022. Sal is a Philmont Ambassador and also the lead advisor on his council's Philmont contingents. He also owns and operates Suncoast Wilderness First Aid and is a WFA/CPR/AED instructor. Sal is also a Backpacking, Hiking and First aid merit badge counselor. He is retired after 30 years with the USPS.- Scott O'Mary is the scoutmaster at Troop 259B in Plano, Texas and has served in this role for the past 5 years. At Troop 259, he has created a 3-year program allowing scouts to attend all 4 BSA high adventure camps. In addition, Scott has served as crew advisor for 4 BSA high adventure treks - Philmont (Summer & Winter), Northern Tier and Bechtel Summit -- and is advisor to a Florida Sea Base trek in 2022. Scott is a Backpacking and Hiking merit badge counselor. His day job is with FedEx Services.- Darrel Tadsen is a veteran of 45 years in scouting. Scoutmaster for 7 years, plus many other unit, district and council leadership positions. Currently serving as District Vice Chair. Multi-year adult crew advisor and council contingent advisor. Have hiked more than a few philmont treks. Retired. Previously employed as business office manager at a local university. A person who has been bitten by the philmont bug.- Andy Parrish is the High Adventure Chair for Troop 152 in Westfield, IN. He has led crews to Boundary Waters & Philmont. He is a merit badge counselor for camping, backpacking, and canoeing. Andy is an outdoor adventurer and avid backpacker. His YouTube Channel -Andy Parrish Outdoors- shares information discussing backpacking, gear reviews, trip reports, various tips & tricks, and an entire section on Philmont Gear.- Jeff Cress is the Skipper of Sea Scout Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC. He has trekked in the Philmont backcountry as a youth and adult Crew Advisor. Jeff is the Publisher at Gear-Report.com and has produced a variety of articles and videos covering gear and best-practices at Philmont Scout Ranch.

This edition takes us back to the Philmont Trek Talk Group on Facebook.  The crew discusses Trek Selection for Philmont.  This will be split into two parts to make it easier to listen to in one session.  The panel:- Sal Porto is the Asst. scoutmaster with Troop 212 in Lutz Fl and has served in this role for the past 15 years. He is a Master Educator with LNT and teaches LNT for the Greater Tampa Bay Area council. He has been on 6 treks to Philmont since 2013, with trek 7 scheduled for 2022. Sal is a Philmont Ambassador and also the lead advisor on his council's Philmont contingents. He also owns and operates Suncoast Wilderness First Aid and is a WFA/CPR/AED instructor. Sal is also a Backpacking, Hiking and First aid merit badge counselor. He is retired after 30 years with the USPS.- Scott O'Mary is the scoutmaster at Troop 259B in Plano, Texas and has served in this role for the past 5 years. At Troop 259, he has created a 3-year program allowing scouts to attend all 4 BSA high adventure camps. In addition, Scott has served as crew advisor for 4 BSA high adventure treks - Philmont (Summer & Winter), Northern Tier and Bechtel Summit -- and is advisor to a Florida Sea Base trek in 2022. Scott is a Backpacking and Hiking merit badge counselor. His day job is with FedEx Services.- Darrel Tadsen is a veteran of 45 years in scouting. Scoutmaster for 7 years, plus many other unit, district and council leadership positions. Currently serving as District Vice Chair. Multi-year adult crew advisor and council contingent advisor. Have hiked more than a few philmont treks. Retired. Previously employed as business office manager at a local university. A person who has been bitten by the philmont bug.- Andy Parrish is the High Adventure Chair for Troop 152 in Westfield, IN. He has led crews to Boundary Waters & Philmont. He is a merit badge counselor for camping, backpacking, and canoeing. Andy is an outdoor adventurer and avid backpacker. His YouTube Channel -Andy Parrish Outdoors- shares information discussing backpacking, gear reviews, trip reports, various tips & tricks, and an entire section on Philmont Gear.- Jeff Cress is the Skipper of Sea Scout Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC. He has trekked in the Philmont backcountry as a youth and adult Crew Advisor. Jeff is the Publisher at Gear-Report.com and has produced a variety of articles and videos covering gear and best-practices at Philmont Scout Ranch.

For those of you going to Philmont, this will be a good episode to bookmark.  This episode features excerpts from the December 2021 Philmont Trek Talk Facebook Live event.  For this episode, we'll talk about things to do in Cimarron, NM and on the way to the ranch.  There were six panelists for this discussion. -       Sal Porto is with Troop 212 in Lutz, Florida and has been on 6 treks to Philmont and is planning the seventh for 2022.  -       Jeff Cress is with Troop 19 and Sea Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC.  He also is an administrator for the Philmont Trek Talk group on Facebook and Gear-report.com.  He has been on numerous Philmont treks over the years.-       Andy Parrish is the High Adventure Chair for Troop 152 in Westfield, IN.   He is also the purveyor of the Youtube channel “Andy Parish Outdoors” where he discusses Philmont prep and trips as well as personal hikes all over the US.   -       Darrel Tadsen has been involved at the Troop, District and Council level for over 45 years and is routinely seen working at the welcome center at Philmont.  He has been on numerous treks and sends 6-7 crews to Philmont each year from the Greater St. Louis Area Council.  -       Scott O'Mary with Troop 259 in Plano, TX.  He has had extensive experience with all four BSA High Adventure bases.  -       Rob Smith is with Troop and Crew 85 in O'Fallon, IL and is the High Adventure Chair.  He also runs the HighAdventureScouting.com website.   Watch the full Facebook Live video here: https://youtu.be/WtqVKx5d00Y 

For those of you going to Philmont, this will be a good episode to bookmark.  This episode features excerpts from the December 2021 Philmont Trek Talk Facebook Live event.  The event was specific to Getting to Philmont and things to do in Cimarron, NM and on the way to the ranch.  There were six panelists for this discussion. -       Sal Porto is with Troop 212 in Lutz, Florida and has been on 6 treks to Philmont and is planning the seventh for 2022.  -       Jeff Cress is with Troop 19 and Sea Ship 4019 in Burlington, NC.  He also is an administrator for the Philmont Trek Talk group on Facebook and Gear-report.com.  He has been on numerous Philmont treks over the years.-       Andy Parrish is the High Adventure Chair for Troop 152 in Westfield, IN.   He is also the purveyor of the Youtube channel “Andy Parish Outdoors” where he discusses Philmont prep and trips as well as personal hikes all over the US.    -       Darrel Tadsen has been involved at the Troop, District and Council level for over 45 years and is routinely seen working at the welcome center at Philmont.  He has been on numerous treks and sends 6-7 crews to Philmont each year from the Greater St. Louis Area Council.  -       Scott O'Mary with Troop 259 in Plano, TX.  He has had extensive experience with all four BSA High Adventure bases.  -       Rob Smith is with Troop and Crew 85 in O'Fallon, IL and is the High Adventure Chair.  He also runs the HighAdventureScouting.com website.   Watch the full Facebook Live video here: https://youtu.be/WtqVKx5d00Y 

Birchbark Expeditions interview with Alan Percy.Birchbark Expeditions is a Nationally Accredited week-long, fully guided high adventure canoe experience, steeped in the rich Age of Exploration history. Operated by volunteers from the Greater Niagara Frontier Council of the BSA, the program offers three different options:1) WNY Waterways - A local one or two-day canoeing expedition on one of the many waterways in Western New York.   An ideal first opportunity to experience canoe tripping with an optional over-night stay.2) Adirondack Adventure - a 7-day High Adventure experience based in New York's beautiful Adirondack Park, it operates four weeks from mid-July to mid-August.  3) Algonquin Adventure - also a 7-day High Adventure experience, but based in the remote Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario (on hold until border crossing restrictions are lifted)http://www.wnyscouting.org/birchbark 

Birchbark Expeditions interview with Alan Percy.Birchbark Expeditions is a Nationally Accredited week-long, fully guided high adventure canoe experience, steeped in the rich Age of Exploration history. Operated by volunteers from the Greater Niagara Frontier Council of the BSA, the program offers three different options:1) WNY Waterways - A local one or two-day canoeing expedition on one of the many waterways in Western New York.   An ideal first opportunity to experience canoe tripping with an optional over-night stay.2) Adirondack Adventure - a 7-day High Adventure experience based in New York's beautiful Adirondack Park, it operates four weeks from mid-July to mid-August.  3) Algonquin Adventure - also a 7-day High Adventure experience, but based in the remote Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario (on hold until border crossing restrictions are lifted)http://www.wnyscouting.org/birchbark 

This episode is an interview with Steve Nelson, Director of Camping at Philmont Scout Ranch.  The interview explores the individual programs at Philmont.  Rayado TrekRoving Outdoor Conservation School Trek (ROCS)Order of the Arrow Trail Crew TrekSTEM TrekOrder of the Arrow Trail Crew TrekTrail Crew TrekRanch Hands TrekWe also talked about the Cavalcade – Equestrian crew program.  A great discussion on the non-typical Philmont experience.www.philmontscoutranch.org

Maine High Adventure 2022 Update with Keith Nelson, Program and Base DirectorOpportunities abound for exciting, unique and extended backcountry travel. Every day will involve challenges and rewards. Each bend in the river or change in horizon will bring new possibilities for excitement and relaxation. Take each day as it comes, make your own itinerary that fits EVERYONE'S desires and wishes.Canoeing is, by far, the most popular option for participants of Maine High Adventure. Paddling is available on waters ranging from some of the largest lakes in Maine to challenging whitewater streams and rivers and everything in between. A crew can plan a laid-back relaxing itinerary, a strenuous, demanding trip or a combination of each. Over the past three summer seasons, most crews have paddled an average of 75 to 85 miles while on the water based portion of their trek.Backpacking is another option for participants at Maine High Adventure. The famous Appalachian Trail winds its way over rugged terrain towards its northern terminus atop Mt. Katahdin. Many hikers refer to Maine as the "hardest section of the Appalachian Trail" due to the nature of the rocky footing. Maine High Adventure is in very close proximity to the "100 Mile Wilderness", the final 100 miles of this long-distance footpath and ambitions crews may wish to take on the challenge of hiking all 100 miles, while some may wish to backpack the final 25, culminating in a hike of Mt. Katahdin. Options abound, the opportunities are limitless!

This episode of the podcast features an interview with Gregg Zdan, Director of High Adventure Programs at the Michigan Crossroads Council.  They operate two high adventure bases - Cole Canoe Base and the Great Lakes Sailing Adventure.  Cole Canoe Base https://colecanoebase.com/Our high adventure program provides older scouts an opportunity to stray from the traditional summer camp experience and put their outdoor skills to the test, on canoe trips on three of Michigan's most scenic rivers- the Rifle River, the Fox-Manistique, and the Au Sable. For more information please see the High Adventure homepage to start planning for your adventure nowGreat Lakes Sailing Adventure https://michiganscouting.org/outdooradventures/great-lakes-sailing-adventure/The Retriever, a 52′ ketch, is an offshore sail training vessel where youth will learn the fundamentals of sailing, including sail trim, helmsmanship, navigation,  marine safety and skills used by seasoned sailors!Based in its home port of Mackinaw City, Michigan, the Retriever will call on harbors throughout the northern Great Lakes teaching valuable sailing skills along the way.  Program options include six (6) day – five (5) night cruises, and a 3 night Labor Day weekend. The Retriever is designed to accommodate a maximum of 10 youth and two (2) adults. Co-ed crews are welcome, but the advisor must contact the council in advance to discuss accommodation options.

In this episode we had a conversation with Steve Nelson, Director of Camping at Philmont Scout Ranch about the 2022 season.   www.philmontscoutranch.com

This is an interview with Cliff Langey, Owner and Operator from Swiftwater Adventures in Duluth, MN.  This location is on the way for many groups going to Northern Tier or the Boundary Waters.  A good extra adventure on the way north.Whitewater Rafting on the St. Louis River near Duluth, Minnesota:  The perfect adventure for large groups like Scout groups.​  This trip takes you through a semi-wilderness area with rugged outcrops, tall pines, abundant wildlife, and challenging rapids. ​​Rates:   They offer special rates for large groups of 12+.   https://www.swiftwatermn.com/trips-pricing/whitewater-rafting-large-groups/ https://www.highadventurescouting.com/swiftwateradventures.html

This edition of the High Adventure Scouting Podcast features an interview with Samuel Ahlstrom, Senior District Executive and representative of the Rocky Mountain High Adventure Base from the Pathways to the Rockies Council in Colorado.Located in the high mountains of Southern Colorado, Rocky Mountain High Adventure Base (RMHAB) offers whitewater rafting, backpacking, and other exciting experiences with some of the most breathtaking views of the Rockies.This high adventure program offers a diverse range of activities to meet the needs and desires of all. This includes whitewater rafting, climbing & rappelling, mountain biking, and summiting a peak in the Rocky Mountains. Rocky Mountain High Adventure Base truly does embody what it means to be a high adventure experience.https://rockymountainscouts.org/rmhab/

Is your unit ready to provide High Adventure trips to your members?   A great hands on training course might just be the answer.We had a discussion with Jon Jonas, Chair of High Adventure Programs for the Greater St. Louis Area Council.  He discussed the Back Country Leadership Skills Training that his committee developed many years ago.  Jon discussed the background of the course and the schedule for the weekend course.   This is a hands-on course meant to teach the basics of creating your own high adventure trip within your unit.  Specific information can be found at https://www.highadventurescouting.com/training.html or look for the Training tab on the High Adventure Scouting Website.  

For this episode we had a discussion with Ian Craig from Adirondack Treks & High Adventure at Massaweepie in Up State New York.  They are a part of the Seneca Waterways Council BSA.  This high adventure base offers customizable options in Canoeing, Hiking and Backpacking with treks ranging from 3-7 days.  Email: treks@senecawaterways.org, massawepietreks@gmail.comWebsite: https://senecawaterways.org/massawepie-adirondack-treks/

In this episode we explore setting up an independent Boundary Waters trip for your unit.  The Boundary Waters is an awesome place to take Scouts and an excellent way to get off the net.  Canoeing through the Minnesota wilderness is a classic trip.  If you think it's too difficult, think again.  Our guest this time is Jon Jonas.  Jon is the High Adventure Chair for the Greater St. Louis Area Council as well as a Wilderness First Aid Instructor, High Adventure for Troop 94 in O'Fallon, IL, as well as a bunch of other things.  He's the go to person on High Adventure in our area and we bring his expertise to our listeners.  Jon has been to the Boundary Waters many times with his unit.  He has a great perspective and shares a step by step of how to do your own Boundary Waters trip.  The episode is a little longer than normal, but there is a lot of great information packed into this podcast.  If you have specific questions for Jon, email us at info@highadventurescouting.com and we'll put you in touch with him.

Scott Thiessen, Director for the Zink High Adventure Base (Z-base) discusses the coming 2022 season. Jack Zink high adventure base (ZBASE) is a high adventure leadership based program that will be operated by the local Indian Nations Council and serve Boy Scouts and Venture Scouts as well as high adventure enthusiasts on a regional basis. The leadership curriculum will provide an outdoor discovery based classroom designed to develop participants' leadership skills and learn more about themselves and others in a hands-on, active experience. The programs offered will be unique to not only the area, but to scouting in general. ZBASE will encompass 35,000 acres on Zink Ranch as well as 10,000 acres of Skiatook Lake.THE PURPOSE OF ZBASE IS THREEFOLD: become the premier regional (and eventually national) high adventure base, help maintain the relevance of the scouting principles to today's youth, and be seen as a leadership training center. Zink Ranch has a tradition of hosting various scouting activities and is a fitting site for this one of a kind high adventure base.https://zbase.camp/

Gabe Griffords from Louisiana Swamp Base was the guest for this edition of the High Adventure Scouting Podcast. Gabe gave us an update for 2021 and 2022.Louisiana Swamp Base is a national conservation and high adventure recreation base created in 2010 by the Evangeline Area Council, Boy Scouts of America to commemorate the Centennial of Scouting while also making a 100 year commitment to annually immerse thousands of youth in the environment and culture of the Atchafalaya Swamp.Each year Swamp Base focuses on improving the quality and experience of the Atchafalaya Swamp through environmental stewardship efforts and high adventure programs that instill pride and ownership in the area by allowing youth to experience the swamp firsthand.

The Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost provides a premier High Adventure experience for independent crews and scouts at CBB who are ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the largest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48.http://www.campbuffalobill.com/program/yellowstone-high-adventure-outpost/

Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan High Adventure Base has been offering Northwoods adventures since 1976. Whether you are interested in taking in the vistas on foot at one of our four backpacking destinations, paddling through the cool water on our kayaking or canoe treks, or relaxing on sailboats in Lake Superior, there is sure to be a trek for you! We are excited to announce new treks each summer. If you don’t see a trek that you like, contact the camp staff about a custom itinerary.We offer both in-camp day trips (that are designed to compliment your stay at Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan) or adventures outside of the regular camp program. We are proud to be a Nationally Accredited High Adventure Base.www.makajawan.com

The Salmon River High Adventure Base is a joint venture between Grand Teton Council and the Mountain West Council.Idaho's Salmon River, known as the "River of No Return," is one of the most unique in the world. Originating in the mountains of central Idaho, it flows through some of the most beautiful and pristine land in the United States before reaching its confluence with the Snake River. It is a free-flowing river, without a single dam anywhere on the 425 miles of its main steam. It is one of the longest such rivers in the continental United States, second only to the Yellowstone. Also, excepting Alaska, it is the longest undammed river contained entirely in a single state. The exact origins of the Salmon's nickname are lost to history. Some credit Lewis and Clark after they turned back, the only obstacle during their entire exploration they retreated from. Others say it was early pioneers who settled along the river as farmers and miners. Whoever first coined the phrase, the name is fitting. On average, the river loses nearly 20 feet of elevation for every mile, making for some intense whitewater. It also travels through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the second-largest wilderness in the lower 48. https://www.mountainwestcouncil.org/srhabhttp://www.tetonscouts.org/salmon-river-program-information/60463

Scott Thiessen, Director for the Zink High Adventure Base (Z-base) discusses the coming 2021 season. Jack Zink high adventure base (ZBASE) is a high adventure leadership based program that will be operated by the local Indian Nations Council and serve Boy Scouts and Venture Scouts as well as high adventure enthusiasts on a regional basis. The leadership curriculum will provide an outdoor discovery based classroom designed to develop participants’ leadership skills and learn more about themselves and others in a hands-on, active experience. The programs offered will be unique to not only the area, but to scouting in general. ZBASE will encompass 35,000 acres on Zink Ranch as well as 10,000 acres of Skiatook Lake.THE PURPOSE OF ZBASE IS THREEFOLD: become the premier regional (and eventually national) high adventure base, help maintain the relevance of the scouting principles to today’s youth, and be seen as a leadership training center. Zink Ranch has a tradition of hosting various scouting activities and is a fitting site for this one of a kind high adventure base.https://zbase.camp/

The podcast comes to Missouri with Swift High Adventure Base. We interviewed Lisa Abernathy, past director of Swift.Every week at Swift includes more activities than you can possibly complete. Rock Climbing, High Challenge Course, Rapelling, Low Challenge Course, Swimming, Sailing, SUPs, Equestrian Programs, Mountain Bikes Course and Trail Rides, Ascending, Mountain Boards, and more. Then on top of all that fun, each week has a theme that expands the program offerings at Swift.https://stlbsa.org/camps/scouts-bsa-venturing-summer-camp/

Floodwood Mountain Scout Reservation has been the ultimate site for High Adventure for over 50 yrs. Floodwood is located near Saranac Lake, NY about an hour west of Lake Placid in the heart of the Adirondacks. With its many lakes, streams, and High Peaks, Floodwood is perfectly located to offer a High Adventure challenge second to none.Choose either a canoe trek from our base located on Rollins Pond or backpacking trek into the High Peaks Wilderness. Accompanying your unit for your trek will be one of our experienced staff Voyagers, a trained wilderness guide. While 100% customizable canoe and backpacking treks are the mainstay of Floodwood, we also offer first class waterskiing/tubing, rock climbing/rappelling, archery, as well as many other day and overnight hikes and paddles.Floodwood is truly a special place in the Adirondacks and offers your unit the opportunity to create memories that will last forever!https://www.nnjbsa.org/floodwood/

Imagine spending your Summer Camp experience on one of the largest man-made lakes in the world? Aquabase is located on Kentucky Lake in the heart of the United States. The base is a part of Pfeffer Scout Reservation and a part of the Lincoln Heritage Council.This is an interview with Sarah Flowers, Director of Camping Services for the Lincoln Heritage Council and Reid Parish, Director of Aquabase.www.lhcbsa.org/high-adventure

An interview with Stephanie Kelly, Backcountry Trek Manager, for the Northern Lights High Adventure Base. This is the premier Alaskan High Adventure outdoor experience for scouts. Backpacking, hiking, canoeing, fishing and more! The Northern Lights High Adventure Base is run by the Midnight Sun Council, Boy Scouts of America, based in Fairbanks, Alaska.The mission of the Base is to provide a remote outdoor experience to youth and adults within the Scouting program. www.alaskahighadventure.com

Leadership, Skills, and AdventureNOC is the Southeast's premier adventure destination, offering adventure programs for both Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the USA. Gain new skills while having fun with your troop. From mild to wild, we offer activities for everyone. Single Day AdventuresChoose from one of our seven locations, based on age and ability, to create the best whitewater rafting adventure for your troop.Beginner: Chattahoochee River, Nantahala River, Lower Pigeon River, and French Broad RiverIntermediate: Chattooga River Section III and Upper Pigeon RiverAdvanced: Ocoee River, Chattooga River Section IV, and Nolichucky RiverLooking for more activities? Combine rafting with zip lining, mountain biking, and more with our River-to-Ridge Package or Adventure Pass.Download our Group River Trip Planner for more information or call us at 828.785.5010 to get a trip quote.Multi-day AdventuresWhen a single day isn't enough, create your own multi-day adventure package.Nantahala Group Packages: Combine meals, activities, and lodging at our Nantahala River Campus. Your only decisions are what activities to enjoy and how long to stay.Rinse & Repeat: One river isn't enough? Advance your whitewater rafting skills by paddling multiple rivers. The more rivers you raft, the better deal you get!Download our Nantahala Group Packages Guide for more information or call us at 828.785.5010 to get a trip quote.More OpportunitiesWhitewater Paddling Instruction: Learn from the best with NOC's Paddling School.Wilderness Medicine and Survival Courses: Receive instruction and certification from SOLO Southeast, the originator of wilderness medicine training.Merit Badges: Call us at 828.785.5010 for more information about earning your merit badge with NOC.

Interview with Sean McEneaney, Program and Base DirectorOpportunities abound for exciting, unique and extended backcountry travel. Every day will involve challenges and rewards. Each bend in the river or change in horizon will bring new possibilities for excitement and relaxation. Take each day as it comes, make your own itinerary that fits EVERYONE'S desires and wishes.Canoeing is, by far, the most popular option for participants of Maine High Adventure. Paddling is available on waters ranging from some of the largest lakes in Maine to challenging whitewater streams and rivers and everything in between. A crew can plan a laid-back relaxing itinerary, a strenuous, demanding trip or a combination of each. Over the past three summer seasons, most crews have paddled an average of 75 to 85 miles while on the water based portion of their trek.Backpacking is another option for participants an Maine High Adventure. The famous Appalachian Trail winds its way over rugged terrain towards its northern terminus atop Mt. Katahdin. Many hikers refer to Maine as the "hardest section of the Appalachian Trail" due to the nature of the rocky footing. Maine High Adventure is in very close proximity to the "100 Mile Wilderness", the final 100 miles of this long-distance footpath and ambitions crews may wish to take on the challenge of hiking all 100 miles, while some may wish to backpack the final 25, culminating in a hike of Mt. Katahdin. Options abound, the opportunities are limitless!

Interview with Griffin Linehan, Director of Lenhok’sin High Adventure BaseLenhok’sin is a trek camp. We offer each Crew the opportunity to design their own program tailored to their level of experience and goals. Our primary program is a combination of backpacking and adventure activities. Backpack through the 4,000+ acres of Goshen Scout Reservation and some of the 35,000 acres of surrounding state wildlife game lands. Challenge your Crew to summit up to five peaks and earn our most challenging award! Stop along the way at four of our nine exciting programs.

Interview with Stephen Miller, Program Director for the Montana High Adventure Base.The Montana High Adventure Base (MOHAB) is a nationally accredited Boy Scouts of America High Adventure Base that offers trekking in one of the largest and most remote wilderness areas in the United States. MOHAB is open for Boy Scout troops and venturing crews as well as their adult leaders. MOHAB offers participants basecamp training and hands-on experiences that will provide them with the opportunity to safely lead themselves on their own wilderness expedition.

Scott Thiessen from Jack Zink high adventure base (ZBASE) was the guest for this edition of the High Adventure Scouting Podcast.Jack Zink high adventure base (ZBASE) is a high adventure leadership based program that will be operated by the Indian Nations Council and serve Boy Scouts and Venture Scouts as well as high adventure enthusiasts on a regional basis. The leadership curriculum will provide an outdoor discovery based classroom designed to develop participants’ leadership skills and learn more about themselves and others in a hands-on, active experience. The programs offered will be unique to not only the area, but to scouting in general. ZBASE will encompass 35,000 acres on Zink Ranch as well as 10,000 acres of Skiatook Lake.THE PURPOSE OF ZBASE IS THREEFOLD: become the premier regional (and eventually national) high adventure base, help maintain the relevance of the scouting principles to today’s youth, and be seen as a leadership training center. Zink Ranch has a tradition of hosting various scouting activities and is a fitting site for this one of a kind high adventure base.

Ben Pierce from Louisiana Swamp Base was the guest for this edition of the High Adventure Scouting Podcast.Louisiana Swamp Base is a national conservation and high adventure recreation base created in 2010 by the Evangeline Area Council, Boy Scouts of America to commemorate the Centennial of Scouting while also making a 100 year commitment to annually immerse thousands of youth in the environment and culture of the Atchafalaya Swamp.Each year Swamp Base focuses on improving the quality and experience of the Atchafalaya Swamp through environmental stewardship efforts and high adventure programs that instill pride and ownership in the area by allowing youth to experience the swamp firsthand. Swamp Base celebrated it's 8th anniversary of operating summer high adventure treks in 2020.

It is our experience that high adventure is the lynchpin to keeping many of the youth ages 14-18 in our Troops. This website has been developed for the purpose of providing as much information on high adventure options as possible. Whether it’s the typical national high adventure trips, council bases or independent options, we want to provide as much information for you as a leader. You get to take full advantage of our research efforts. Hopefully this resource will help you plan just the right high adventure trip. If you see any mistakes or omissions from our lists please let us know at info@highadventurescouting.com. Conversely if you have some great experiences in your own unit please share them with the masses as we will distill the information into the website and give your unit credit for the find. Happy High Adventure!​