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Shakedown Trip Options
Shakedown Trip Options
The perfect Boy Scout troop is one where the Scout Law and Oath are upheld by all members, from the youngest Scout to the most experienced leader. The troop is led by a dedicated Senior Patrol Leader and supported by an experienced Scoutmaster who fosters a culture of inclusivity, respect, and teamwork. Scouts are encouraged to develop their individual skills and interests, while also working together as a team to achieve common goals. The troop is active and engaged, participating in regular meetings, outdoor activities, and service projects in the community. Scouts are taught important life skills such as camping, hiking, first aid, and leadership, which will serve them well throughout their lives. The perfect Boy Scout troop is one where every member feels valued, supported, and inspired to be their best selves.
10 Options for Shakedown Trips
1. Abyss Lake Trail - This 16.9 mile trail in the Mount Evans Wilderness area provides stunning views of two alpine lakes and the surrounding peaks. It's a moderate/challenging hike with decent elevation gain that's great for practicing longer hikes and gaining elevation.
2. The Lost Creek Loop - This 28.8 mile loop in the Lost Creek Wilderness area offers a variety of terrain, including creek crossings, meadows, and forests. It's a challenging hike that's great for practicing longer backpacking trips. You would probably want this to be a 3 day weekend or a 4 day trip.
3. The Continental Divide Trail - This famous trail spans over 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, but a shorter section can be hiked in Colorado, which is also a portion of the Colorado Trail segment 9. A 13.2 mile one way section between Tennessee Pass and Turquoise Lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and alpine lakes.
4. The Ice Lakes Basin Trail - This 8.3 mile trail near Silverton, Colorado provides access to stunning alpine lakes and towering peaks. It's a challenging hike that's great for practicing shorter, more intense backpacking trips.
5. The Flat Top Meadows - This 17 mile trail in the Flat Tops Wilderness area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a moderate hike that's great for practicing longer backpacking trips and gaining elevation.
6. The Four Pass Loop - This 28.5 mile loop in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area offers stunning views of alpine lakes and the surrounding mountains. It's a challenging hike that's great for practicing longer, high-elevation backpacking trips.
7. The Spruce Creek Trail - This 6.0 mile trail near Ridgway, Colorado provides access to stunning alpine lakes and towering peaks. It's a easy hike that's great for practicing shorter, starter backpacking trips.
8. The Shaft House - This 9.0 mile trail in the Lost Creek Wilderness is a great starter hike and can normally be done early in the summer. I’ve done this one many times as it is close to Denver. There are a good amount of campsites near the shaft house, but I recommend to keep going past the shaft house till you reach the creak, unless you are going the same weekend as I am and then forget I told you that. :)
9. The Holy Cross Loop - This 15 mile loop in the Holy Cross Wilderness area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a challenging hike that's great for practicing longer backpacking trips and gaining elevation.
10. King Lake Trail - Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail can be a challenging day hike or a perfect multi day backpacking trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness!. It's a challenging hike that's great for practicing longer, high-elevation backpacking trips.
10 Tips for Having a Successful Shakedown Trip
Plan ahead: Research the destination, weather conditions, trail conditions, and regulations before embarking on your backpacking shakedown trip. Make sure you have all the necessary permits and know the camping regulations.
Test your gear: Use your backpacking shakedown trip as an opportunity to test all your gear, including your backpack, tent, sleeping bag, stove, and water filtration system. Make sure everything is functioning properly and that you are familiar with how to use them.
Pack light: Keep your backpack as light as possible by only bringing essential items. Prioritize lightweight gear and pack only the clothing and food you will need for the trip. A heavy backpack can quickly become a burden on the trail and impact your overall experience.
Start with shorter distances: For your shakedown trip, choose a shorter route or itinerary to avoid overexertion and allow yourself time to adjust to the physical demands of backpacking. This will help you assess your fitness level and determine how much you can comfortably handle.
Stay hydrated and well-nourished: Proper hydration and nutrition are critical for a successful backpacking trip. Make sure to bring enough water and pack lightweight, high-energy snacks to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: Leave No Trace is a set of principles that promotes responsible outdoor ethics. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all your trash, minimizing campfire impact, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and other hikers.
Take breaks: Allow yourself regular breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery. Don't push yourself too hard and listen to your body. Overexertion can lead to fatigue, injuries, and a less enjoyable trip.
Practice campsite selection: Choose your campsites wisely. Look for established campsites to minimize your impact on the environment. Avoid camping too close to water sources and follow any regulations or guidelines regarding camping locations.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions: Weather in the wilderness can be unpredictable. Bring appropriate clothing for all possible weather conditions, including rain gear, warm layers, and sun protection. Check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
Stay safe: Prioritize safety during your backpacking shakedown trip. Carry a first aid kit, know basic wilderness first aid skills, and be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife, steep terrain, and river crossings. Share your itinerary with someone trusted and consider bringing a satellite communication device for emergencies.
Remember, a successful backpacking shakedown trip is all about being prepared, staying safe, and learning from the experience. Take the time to evaluate your gear, test your skills, and build your confidence before embarking on longer backpacking adventures. Happy trails!
Check out my gear recommendations page for more details on what to take on your trip.
Now Go and Get Outdoors!!!
I really hope this information has been helpful for you. I would love to hear from anyone who utilizes some or any of this information and how it helps you or your troop. Do you have any recommendations for trails that I should add to the list, or did you find any challenges with any of the trails listed. In the future I plan to add more and even put some videos together to support. Go to my About Me page to learn more about who I am. To contact me go here, and shoot me an email.
Get Outdoors!