Rochester Troop 125 and BSA high adventure opportunities for the older and more experienced Scouts are tremendous adventures and leadership opportunities. To many Scouts, these trips are the reason they joined Scouting. Our troop is fortunate to have leaders and adults that can support frequent high adventure opportunities for the more experienced scouts that are advancing through the ranks.
The troop attempts to schedule at least two major, and a couple of weekend high or middle adventure outings each year. There are minimum requirements for age, rank, and fitness to participate in high adventure activities. Generally, to be considered, a Scout must be First Class rank and age 14, although the age and eligibility requirements vary by the outing. As expected, individual abilities and being able to work as part of high adventure crew are also considerations. For younger Scouts that are now coming eligible by age and rank, high adventure is the culmination of Scouting knowledge and skills. Through these adventures, they will be challenged both physically and mentally. In return, they will be rewarded with an adventure that they will remember and speak of for a lifetime.
Frequently these trips are on a “first-come, first-served” basis due to limitations in crew size imposed by the BSA or outfitter regulations. Often the number of seats in vehicles is limited based on availability and approved adult drivers.
High adventure trips require quite a bit of advance preparation and there is a program established to prepare the crew for the adventure. There are required crew preparation and training activities as well as gear shakedowns and informational sessions on the trip. Scouts are individually responsible for their personal fitness and preparation and are making a commitment to work as a member of the crew. There will be times when the Scout must defer their individual interest to the safety and needs of the group. Scouts are expected to demonstrate Scout spirit at all times. Their attendance at troop meetings and participation in outings is a prerequisite to participating in high adventure.
Recent Troop 125 High Adventure destinations include:
• Philmont Scout Ranch
• Florida Seabase
• Northern Tier High Adventure Base
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Appalachian Trail