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FLORIDA SEA BASE
Florida Keys Sailing through the Florida Keys for a week on an eight person boat sounds like a vacation, and in a lot of ways it was one of the most relaxing adventures I've been on, but between stormy weather at night, a broken marine bathroom and barracudas, this definitely wasn't the most luxurious. Through it all, I learned the importance of contingency planning when things don't go exactly as needed, how to achieve thorough communication on-board, and just how many people it takes to get a sail boat from point A to point B on a calm or stormy day. My favorite part of Sea Base is how much control scout's are given in designing their exploration. Our group, in particular, snorkeled and dove on sunken ships, explored Bone Key and the abandoned settlements, and strolled through Key West with ice cream or Key Lime pie in hand. |
PHILMONT SCOUT RANCH
New Mexico Backcountry Philmont was a challenge: there's really no way of getting around that fact. Elevation changes, in-climate weather (would you believe it gets well below freezing in New Mexico?), and rocky trails all add up to a pretty treacherous trip, but with the proper training and equipment it's an incredible opportunity. Not only are the views incredible and the activities fun, but this is the best team builder I can think of - there's a lot of trust involved in having someone else help carry cooking materials and half of the tent! Our trip was 11 days, and we covered about 90 miles, with the opportunity to horse-back ride, shoot black-powder rifles, create lead ammunition, brand our boots or belts, and participate in a Conservation project. Unfortunately, I was hurt during the brush clearing for the project, but I was able to complete the trip with a hip-pack and climb to the peak of the Tooth of Time with my mom. I would recommend every scout or friend of scouting go out to the ranch when you get a chance - it's the experience of a life time. Be sure to look back at the Tooth of Time as you leave; it's a sure sign you're be back. |
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NORTHERN TIER SCOUT BASE
Minnesota & Canadian Border |