High Adventure Scouting Podcast

Coffee at Philmont – An Alternative to Bringing a Dedicated Stove for Coffee

Rob Smith — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this edition of the High Adventure Scouting podcast, we explore an alternative to bringing an extra stove for advisor coffee. We explore the idea of using a Toaks Titanium 450ml Cup to heat water for instant coffee at Philmont or other long term backpacking trips.

Toaks Cup – https://www.amazon.com/TOAKS-CUP-450-Titanium-450ml-Cup ($15)

BRS 3000 Stove - https://www.amazon.com/BRS-BRS-3000T-Ultra-Light-Titanium-Miniature/dp/B00NNMF70U/ref=sr_1_1? ($17)

Bringing a Chair to Philmont

Rob Smith — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Are you Team Chair or Team No Chair. We discuss why you might want to bring a chair to Philmont and why you might leave it at home.

Cell Phones at Philmont

Rob Smith — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

In this edition of the High Adventure Scouting podcast, we talk about bringing a cell phone to Philmont Scout Ranch. We discuss cell signal, taking photos, and GPS navigation. The idea of designating one or two in the crew to take pictures is also discussed.

Sleeping Pads – Flat or Inflatable?

Rob Smith — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

What is your preference – Flat or inflatable sleeping pads. We discuss the differences and why you might choose flat or inflatable sleeping pads.

Water Bottles and Backpacking – Nalgene vs Smart Water Bottles

Rob Smith — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Do you use a Nalgene type bottle or a Smart Water bottle, or something else? We discuss the advantages and disadvantages in using either type bottle on a longer backpacking trip like a trek to Philmont Scout Ranch.

Things Not to Bring to Philmont - Too Many Clothes

Rob Smith — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 01:30:00 GMT

I wanted to expand on the items that Adult leaders shouldn’t bring to Philmont. So, on this edition we’ll talk about clothing.

Some leaders will bring too many clothes. My guideline is to follow the Guidebook to Adventure. There is a really good list of items to take to Philmont. Let’s look at the clothing I took on my last trek.

(Snap Fingers)

- Clothing I have on – wicking shirt, breathable zip off pants, socks, underwear

- 2 additional pair of underwear

- 4 pair of socks – you could probably pair that down to 3.

- 2 additional shirts – one long sleeve, one short sleeve

- 1 pair of gym shorts

- Sleep clothes – For me it’s synthetic long underwear. I sleep cold.

- Fleece/Jacket – I didn’t take a fleece as I had a puffy coat on my last trek.

You obviously don’t need a pair of clothes for every day. There are ways to wash your clothes, but when you get into the trek, that won’t become a priority.

So, what did I leave out? Feel free to disagree with my list and add your own in the comments below and make sure to subscribe on all the socials.

Things Not to Bring to Philmont - Extra Tents for Adults

Rob Smith — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:00:00 GMT

I wanted to expand on the items that Adult leaders shouldn’t bring to Philmont. So, on this edition we’ll talk about bringing a separate tent for the adults. On the Philmont Trek Talk Facebook group, this topic creates a lot of discussion on both sides.

Philmont Tent - Philmont will provide 2 person tents as a part of the fees paid. These tents are well used but in great condition. If you have any issues on the trail with a pole, rain fly, tent, you can easily get some kind of replacement. With your own tent, you might not be as lucky.

Footprint in Campsites – Some campsites have ample camping areas, some don’t. I’ve been at several campsites that had limited flat camping spots. Reduce your footprint and take less gear.

Set the Example – Philmont is set up to work in buddies for meals and tents. We had a leader one year that was a big guy, and he tented with our Scoutmaster without a problem. You will have plenty of room to sleep. We expect the Scouts to buddy up, as leaders we should lead by example.

I’ve been backpacking a ton with Scouts, and I will share a tent with another adult. Frankly, I never spend much time in my tent as I’m enjoying the trip and the awesome surroundings.

So, what did I leave out? Feel free to disagree with my list and add your own in the comments below and make sure to subscribe on all the socials.

Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost Overview

Rob Smith — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be featuring Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost in this edition. Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost is a part of the Adventure West Council.

The Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost offers an awesome backcountry experiences based out of Camp Buffalo Bill.

· The base has five high adventure options for backpacking, climbing, whitewater, kayaking and rock and river adventures.

o The Backpacking Adventure

§ 5 day, 4 night backcountry adventure

§ Hike between 5-10 miles per day – 35-40 miles overall

§ A lot of wildlife on this trip

§ Adventure is in either Yellowstone or Shoshone national Forest – the website indicates there is no guarantee for Yellowstone as there are permits that must be requested.

§ Group size for Shosone is 4-12 individuals, Group size for Yellowstone is 4-8 individuals

o Climbing Adventure

§ Spend an entire week climbing on natural rocks in the area.

§ Rope climbing on “The Island” which is a 100’ free standing granite pillar, bouldering on Cedar Mountain, and some time to choose where you want to climb.

§ Great views before, during, and after climbing

§ You will be staying in camp and traveling to the climbing destinations.

§ There is a free day to explore other cool places in the area

§ Group size is 4-12 individuals

o Whitewater Adventure

§ Three full days of whitewater rafting.

§ You will be staying in camp and traveling to the whitewater destinations.

§ There is a free day to explore other cool places in the area

§ Group size is 4-12 individuals

o Kayak Adventure

§ 5 day, 4 night backcountry kayaking trek in the heart of the Yellowstone park

§ 3 full days of kayaking and 2 half days.

§ Each day will be a new basecamp location.

§ You will visit areas not accessible by roads.

§ Group size is 4-8 individuals

o Rock & River Adventure

§ This is a combination of the climbing and whitewater rafting.

§ 2 days of climbing and 2 days of whitewater rafting.

§ You will be staying in camp and traveling to the whitewater and climbing destinations.

§ Group size is 4-12 individuals

If there are free days on the treks – there are all kinds of opportunities

· Whitewater rafting

· Buffalo Bill Center of the West – museum

· Buffalo Bills Irma Hotel

· Grand Teton National Park

· West Yellowstone Montana

· Fishing

· Attend the Cody Nite Rodeo

· Hike the fist – steep hike with incredible views

· Swim in the Hot Springs

· Visit Yellowstone National park

If this sounds like a cool opportunity, head over to awbsa.org/yhao for more information. There is a lot more info on their site.

If you want more information on all kinds of high adventure options, head over to HighAdventureScouting.com.

Len Hok Sin High Adventure Base Overview

Rob Smith — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be featuring Lenhok’sin High Adventure in this edition. Lenhok’sin High Adventure is a part of the National Capitol Area Council in Virginia.

The Lenhok’sin High Adventure offers an awesome backcountry experiences based out of Goshen Scout Reservation.

• The base has five high adventure options for backpacking, climbing, whitewater, kayaking and rock and river adventures.

o Trail Trek

 5-day, 4-night backcountry adventure

 Specially designed itineraries based on interest of the crew and abilities

 Staffed outposts or other activities along the trail

 Participants should have backpacking experience

 Crew size is 6-12 people

o Canoe Trek

 5 day, 4-night backcountry adventure

 61-mile trek on the James River

 Navigate over 100 Class 1 rapids, 20 challenging Class II rapids and the infamous Balcony Falls Rapid

 Fishing is available

 Optional river clean-up to complete the service project for the 50-miler award

 Passed the BSA swim test

 Group size is 8-12 individuals

o Outposts and Activities

 Aquatics – stand up paddle boards or kayak around Lake Merriweather

 Caving

 COPE High Elements

 Foxfire – 1900’s Appalacian blacksmithing forge where you can create items

 Mountain man area shooting black powder rifles, tomahawk throwing, and learn about trade and fur trappers

 Primitive experiences

 Woods edge featuring archer, dagger throwing, and survivalist skills in a medieval homestead

o Special Programs for individuals or a small group

 Provisional Trail Trek

 Provisional River Trek

Requirements

• Youth must be 13-years old by September 1 of the year before

• One or more crew member must have Wilderness First Aid and CPR.

• Canoe trek must have one adult with other water activity related training

If this sounds like a cool opportunity, head over to gotogoshen.org and search for LenHokSin High Adventure for more information. There is a lot more info on their site.

If you want more information on all kinds of high adventure options, head over to HighAdventureScouting.com.

Makajawan High Adventure Base Overview

Rob Smith — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

This is High Adventure Rob from High Adventure Scouting.

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be featuring Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan High Adventure in this edition. Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan High Adventure is a part of the Northeast Illinois Council.

The Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan High Adventure offers some awesome backcountry experiences.

• The base has three high adventure options for Canoeing, Backpacking, and Kayaking.

o Canoeing Treks

 Boundary Waters/Quetico

• Travel to the boundary waters area near the Gunflint Trail along the US-Canada border

• Moose, black bears, otters, pine martens, and loons are some of the animals in the area

 Flambeau Flowage

• Area filled with islands and coves

• Famous area for walleye fishing but northern pike, muskies, bass sturgeon, catfish, bluegill, and many other fish are in the area

• Camping at primitive sites

• Eagles, ospreys, beavers and sand cranes are some of the animals in the area

 Wisconsin Headwaters

• Trips can be modified to your groups needs

• Fishing is excellent from native trout to a range of panfish and gamefish

• Eagles, wolves, black bears, seer herons, and hawks roam in this area.

o Backpacking Trek

 Porcupine Mountains

• Treks range from 20-50 miles long dependent on crew preference

• Permits, equipment, food and an experienced guide are provided.

• The area offers a mixed terrain from mountains to lakes

 Isle Royale

• The area is only accessible by boat to the least visited national park crossing Lake Superior’s northwest section

• Thousands of acres of backcountry camping

• Great scenery paired with moose and wolves on the island.

 Ice Age Trail

• Trail winds through the lakes and bogs formed by the last glacier’s melting

• Set among a forest of spruce, fir, maple, and birch

• Excellent introduction to backcountry camping and is a good prep hike for a Philmont trek

o Kayaking

 Apostle Island Kayak Trek

• Trek led by an experienced guide through the collection of islands in Lake Superior

• Stunning geological formations including caverns, arches and pillars only accessible to other kayakers

• Camping will be done on the sandy beaches in the area.

If this sounds like a cool opportunity, head over to makajawan.com for more information. There is a lot more info on their site.

If you want more information on all kinds of high adventure options, head over to HighAdventureScouting.com.

Swamp Base High Adventure Base Overview

Rob Smith — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be featuring Swamp Base in this edition. Swamp Base is located near Lafayette, LA operated by the Evangeline Area Council.

Swamp Base is a unique experience set in the Atchafalaya Swamp.

The excursion ventures through remote swamplands and caters to Scouts and registered adult leaders

· Designed to highlight adventure and the vastness of the swamp

· 61.6-mile journey through the western side of the Atchafalaya (a-chaf-a-lie-a) Swamp

· Paddle an average of 15.4 miles per day

· Allows you to get up close and personal with alligators on a swamp led tour by local guides

· Features floating campsites and a night at a primitive campsite at Rougarou (Roo-Gaa-Roy) Island.

The trip

· Day 1 is 19.4 miles featuring a wall of cypress trees as you start out. The Turtles floating campsite will be a welcome sight on night 1.

· Day 2 is 10.4 miles and starts with a swamp tour on a boat. You will spend the night on Rougarou (Roo-Gaa-Roy) Island.

· Day 3 is 14.6 miles, and you will venture though the forgotten cove. You will be spending two nights at Camp Atchafalaya (a-chaf-a-lie-a). Crews will enjoy a Cajun Cracker Barrel on Day 3.

· Day 4 features no paddling as you enjoy activities such as wood carving, Cajun Cooking, branding, and trail exploration. You will also get a chance to hold a baby alligator.

· Day 5 will take crews 17.2 miles and completion of the trek. There is an 800-foot portage that is called the Swamp Stomp where crews will have a good time in the mud.

Swamp Base also has other events throughout the year including the Swamp-O-Ree as well as opportunities for shorter weekend trips.

If this sounds like a cool opportunity, head over to swampbasebsa.org for more information. There is a lot more info on their site.

If you want more information on all kinds of high adventure options, head over to HighAdventureScouting.com.

#highadventure #boyscouts #boyscoutsofamerica #scoutingamerica #swampbase @swampbasebsa

Z-Base High Adventure Base Overview

Rob Smith — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be highlighting Zink High Adventure Base, or better known as Z-Base, in this edition. Z-Base is located near Tulsa, OK and is a part of the Indian Nations Council.

This is unique high adventure base that combines some great activity areas.

· Sporting Clays is an 18 station sporting clays setup with a BBQ dinner.

· ATV Action Course allows you to pilot your own quad around the natural terrain of Z-Base.

· Mountain Biking allows you to ride through some scenic and rugged terrain on a very robust trail system in Oklahoma

· Aerial Adventure is a 70-foot-high ropes course with over 40 elements to traverse over. There is also a zip line that goes over 1,300 feet across the lake.

· Cable Wake is a Unique overhead cable system that is designed for wake boarding, water skiing and knee boarding. This is a unique adventure not found in many places.

· Ninja Warrior & Tree House Adventure is an obstacle course with three suspended tree house lodges connected by gravity defying bridges.

· Aquatics Adventure center allows the use of jet skis through a water obstacle course.

· Western Village features cowboy action shooting and a chuck wagon dinner.

This is a full week of activity starting on Sunday and ending on Saturday – much like a typical summer camp. A few items to keep in mind.

· If you are participating in the ATV program, you will need to bring proof of an online pre-course completion and parental waivers.

· If participating the Jet Ski program, bring proof of state boaters’ course and waivers. Must have card in hand.

· Swim check roster with tester documentation.

· Each group will have to have one adult with current CPR and Wilderness First Aid.

· There are a few additional items required which are typical including BSA medical forms A, B, & C with proof of medical insurance, copy of the council insurance, and proof of adult youth protection training.

· Minimum age is 13 years old by the time of your trek. You must be 14 for the ATV trek.

· You don’t have to bring a tent for this trip, but a sleeping pad is highly recommended.

#highadventure #boyscouts #boyscoutsofamerica #scoutingamerica #zbase @zbase4888 @okscouts

Auquabase High Adventure Base Overview

Rob Smith — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

As a part of our series highlighting council high adventure programs, we will be featuring Aqua Base in this edition. Aqua Base is a part of Pfeffer Scout Reservation on Kentucky Lake and a part of the Lincoln Heritage Council.
This is a great program for your older Scouts who want a new adventure at Summer Camp. This is a great program as it is a part of Camp Roy C Manchester that offers a traditional summer camp experience for your younger Scouts and those older Scouts not interested in sailing.
• In essence, the Scouts will leave camp on their boat on Monday morning and return on Friday in time for the closing campfire.
• The boats are 25-foot Catalina and Hunter Sail boats and will have 3-4 Scouts for the week under the leadership of a director.
• They will sail to numerous ports throughout the lake
• They will sleep on their boat each night.
• Cook their own meals
• This allows the Scouts to fish on the lake, develop teamwork and nautical skills and learn weather patterns.
• This is an awesome program, and we had 6 of our Scouts participate in the sailing adventure a few years ago and they had a blast. They were very excited to not have adults on the boat.

Requirements
• Minimum age is 14 by the start of camp.
• Small Boat sailing merit badge prior to arrival at camp
• Passed the BSA swim test

If this sounds like a cool opportunity, head over to lhcbsa.org/high-adventure for more information. There is a lot more info on their site.
If you want more information on all kinds of high adventure options, head over to HighAdventureScouting.com.

#highadventure #boyscouts #boyscoutsofamerica #scoutingamerica #aquabase
@LHCBSA

The ACE Program at Rodney Scout Reservation

Rob Smith — Thu, 28 May 2026 12:06:44 GMT

In this episode we talk with David Ambrozewicz, Camp Director at the Rodney Scout Reservation which is a part of the Del-Mar-Va Council. We talk about the ACE Program: The Advanced Camper Experience. Designed to offer exciting new experiences to Scouts that think they’ve seen it all. Opportunities include advanced sailing, teambuilding activities, and knife throwing. Scouts will be able to earn the Exploration Merit Badge and the Paul Bunyan Woodsman Award as part of the ACE program. Open to Scouts at least 14 years of age, who have earned First Class. Connect with the Rodney Scout Reservation at https://www.delmarvacouncil.org/rodney-scout-reservation/.

5 Things Adults Should Not Bring to Philmont

Rob Smith — Fri, 15 May 2026 21:14:03 GMT

5 Things Adults Should Not Bring to Philmont
Philmont Scout Ranch is a trip of a lifetime and there are several items that adults might want to avoid taking on the trek. This is the list of the 5 things that adults should not bring to Philmont.

Make sure to add your choices or feel free to disagree with my list. Happy High Adventure!

Philmont Trek Talk Group - Tips from First Time Trekkers

Rob Smith — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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.

Floodwood Mountain Scout Reservation - Interview with Steven Leonardi and Jordan Brown

Rob Smith — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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/

Salmon River High Adventure Base - Interview with Camp Director Al Davis

Rob Smith — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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/srhab
http://www.tetonscouts.org/salmon-river-program-information/60463

Cole Canoe Base & Great Lakes Sailing Adventure with Gregg Zdan, Director of High Adventure

Rob Smith — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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 now

Great 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.

Things to do in Cimarron and on the way to Philmont with the Philmont Trek Talk Crew

Rob Smith — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 12:00:00 GMT

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

Philmont Trek Talk Group - Trek Selection - Part 1

Rob Smith — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:00:00 GMT

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.

Maine High Adventure Base - Interview with Sean McEneaney

Rob Smith — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Interview with Sean McEneaney, Program and Base Director

Opportunities 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!

Yellowstone High Adventure Outpost - Interview with Andrew Allgeier, Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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/

Birchbark Expeditions 2022 Update with Alan Percy.

Rob Smith — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 12:00:00 GMT

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

Z-Base - 2023 Update from Scott Thiessen and Jacob Southwick

Rob Smith — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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/

Introduction Episode - What You Need to Know Before Jumping into the Podcast

Rob Smith — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 23:00:00 GMT

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!

NOC Center - Interview with Liz Hoekwater, Groups & Customs Reservations Manager

Rob Smith — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Leadership, Skills, and Adventure
NOC 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 Adventures
Choose 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 River

Intermediate: Chattooga River Section III and Upper Pigeon River

Advanced: Ocoee River, Chattooga River Section IV, and Nolichucky River

Looking 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 Adventures
When 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 Opportunities

Whitewater 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.

Philmont Trek Talk Group - Shakedown Hikes & Crew Prep - Part 1

Rob Smith — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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

Philmont Trek Talk Group - Shakedown Hikes & Crew Prep - Part 2

Rob Smith — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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

ZBase - Interview with Scott Thiessen, Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 14:00:00 GMT

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.

Aquabase - Interview with Sarah Flowers and Reid Parish

Rob Smith — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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

LenHok'Sin High Adventure Base 2023 Update with Camp Director Elizabeth Warren

Rob Smith — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 12:00:00 GMT

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/

Swiftwater Adventures in Minnesota

Rob Smith — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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

Adirondack Treks & High Adventure at Massaweepie with Ian Craig

Rob Smith — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 11:00:00 GMT

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.com
Website: https://senecawaterways.org/massawepie-adirondack-treks/

Swift High Adventure Base - Interview with Lisa Abernathy

Rob Smith — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 14:00:00 GMT

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/

Philmont Individual Programs with Steve Nelson - Director of Camping

Rob Smith — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 12:00:00 GMT

This episode is an interview with Steve Nelson, Director of Camping at Philmont Scout Ranch. The interview explores the individual programs at Philmont.

Rayado Trek
Roving Outdoor Conservation School Trek (ROCS)
Order of the Arrow Trail Crew Trek
STEM Trek
Order of the Arrow Trail Crew Trek
Trail Crew Trek
Ranch Hands Trek

We also talked about the Cavalcade – Equestrian crew program. A great discussion on the non-typical Philmont experience.

www.philmontscoutranch.org

Philmont 2022 Programs with Steve Nelson - Director of Camping

Rob Smith — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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

www.philmontscoutranch.com

Philmont Trek Talk Group - Trek Selection - Part 2

Rob Smith — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Lenhok’sin High Adventure Base - Interview with Griffin Linehan

Rob Smith — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Interview with Griffin Linehan, Director of Lenhok’sin High Adventure Base

Lenhok’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.

Z-Base - 2022 Update from Director Scott Thiessen

Rob Smith — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 09:00:00 GMT

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.

Floodwood Mountain Reservation 2023 Update with David Bock

Rob Smith — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 11:00:00 GMT

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/

Makajawan High Adventure Base - Interview with Rory Fencl, Reservation Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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

Northern Lights High Adventure Base - Interview with Stephanie Kelly

Rob Smith — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 11:00:00 GMT

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

MOHAB - Montana High Adventure Base - Interview with Stephen Miller, Program Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 14:00:00 GMT

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.

Northern Lights High Adventure Base Update for 2022 - Interview with Stephanie Kelly

Rob Smith — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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

Salmon River Hight Adventure Base Update 2023 with Donna Kemper

Rob Smith — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:00:00 GMT

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.

Boundary Waters Trip with Jon Jonas, High Adventure Chair for Greater St. Louis Area Council

Rob Smith — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 14:00:00 GMT

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.

Philmont Hotwash with Lead Advisor Bryan King

Rob Smith — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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.

Louisiana Swamp Base - Interview with Ben Pierce, Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 16:00:00 GMT

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.

Z-Base - 2021 Update from Director Scott Thiessen

Rob Smith — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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.

Boundary Waters Trip - Troop 40 in Shiloh, IL Using A Base Camp

Rob Smith — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:00:00 GMT

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

Swampbase Update with Gabe Griffords - Program Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:00:00 GMT

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.

Rocky Mountain High Adventure Base with Samuel Ahlstrom

Rob Smith — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 11:00:00 GMT

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/

Back Country Leadership Skills Training with Jon Jonas

Rob Smith — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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.

Birchbark Expeditions interview with Alan Percy

Rob Smith — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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.

Cole Canoe Base & Great Lakes Sailing Adventure 2023 Update - Jason Wilburn, Dir of High Adventure

Rob Smith — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 11:00:00 GMT

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 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 now

Great 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!

Traveling to Philmont with the Philmont Trek Talk Crew

Rob Smith — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 12:00:00 GMT

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.

- Scott O’Mary with Troop 259 in Plano, TX. He has had extensive experience with all four BSA High Adventure bases.

Maine High Adventure Update with Keith Nelson, Program and Base Director

Rob Smith — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 12:00:00 GMT

Maine High Adventure 2022 Update with Keith Nelson, Program and Base Director

Opportunities 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!