Troop 255 Introductory Backpacking Trip (Appalachian Trail) 2026

Our troop meeting on October 20 will be dedicated to preparing for the trip, including backpacking fitting and lessons. If you plan on attending this trip, please show up to the meeting.

Overview:

This is a basic, introductory backpacking trip. As such, we encourage NEW and YOUNGER scouts and all those who have not backpacked before to attend. The troop will meet at CCES at 8:30 am Saturday and will depart at 9:00 am. Please arrive on time! Expected return time is 2:30 pm.

We will backpack a total of roughly 10 miles along the Appalachian Trail. 3.7 on Saturday to our campsite, and 6 on Sunday to the town of Harpers Ferry. More experienced scouts who wish for a longer hike can choose to travel another 4 miles on Saturday.

Shorter (Beginner) Route:
3.7 Miles Saturday
6 Miles Sunday
9.7 Miles Total
Longer (Advanced) Route:
7.7 Miles Saturday
6 miles Sunday
13.7 Miles Total

General Packing List:

Note: All items should fit inside your backpacking bag. Food-wise, oatmeal, a bagged lunch + trail snacks, and a Mountain House-like reheatable frozen meal or other similarly portable equivalants are recommended.

Weather:

The temperature this time of year ranges from the high 30s to the low 60s. Be prepared for warmer or colder, and of course, be prepared for rain. Sunscreen is always a good idea. Pack a warm sleeping bag.

  • 2-3 liters of water
  • Bagged lunch and dinner for Saturday
  • Breakfast for Sunday morning
  • Money for lunch on Sunday
  • Backpacking backpack AND daypack
  • Your share of your tent
  • Your share of patrol cooking supplies
  • Raincoat
  • Flashlight
  • Appropriate footwear
  • Sleeping bag
  • Mess kit
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Other general hiking and backpacking necessities, check the flyer and troop resources for more information.

Other Information: 

- Duty roster will be provided, scouts will have to partake in one of these jobs:

  • Filtering and refilling water at campsite
  • Meal prep
  • Meal cleanup
  • Bear bag maintenance

 

More details on this trip can be found on the flyer.