Hiking Program

Let’s Take a Hike!

Every month Pack 406 will host a hike or encourage families to go for a hike in different locations across the region.  For dates and locations see the pack calendar

What is the Hiking Program?

The hiking program is an opportunity for scouts to explore natural areas in our state and earn fun rewards for mileage accomplishments.  This program also ties in educational opportunities so that additional achievements can be earned.

What are the Hiking Program Goals?

This program invites scouts to be more active in the outdoors, to learn more about the environment, to practice “Leave No Trace,” and to learn what type of wild animals and birds live in the local area.  

As your scout begins hiking and starts learning the guidelines for Leave No Trace, or how to “Trek Safely”, how to use a map and compass, or even the history of the local parks they will be in, they will be earning mileage credits. The goal is for your scout to have fun while hiking and to enhance their outdoor experience. 

Hiking Program Rules

Hiking Program Benefits

Are There Any Recognition Items?

Once a scout achieves 5 or more miles or complete 2 hikes, they will be able to earn the symbol of the Hiking Program, the Hiking Stave, or stick.


Scouts will earn items to display on their hiking sticks as they participate in the hikes.  The decorated hiking stick shows others what the scout has accomplished.  Below are some of the awards each scout has the potential to earn: 

First 5 Miles Hiked or 2 total hikes: Hiking stick and leather string (awarded at Pack meeting following hike qualifying hiked)

Every Hike: 

Bead – This will show how many hikes a scout has attended

Rank Medallions: Each year, when a scout participates in at least 4 hikes between September and May, they will earn a metal medallion that represents their rank in cub scouting that year.  

Medallions will be awarded at the May pack meeting. 

Scouts must complete these hikes with the Pack. 

Additional Information About The Hiking Program

When will Hikes Take Place?

Where will Hikes Take Place?

What to Wear and Bring to a Hike?

How Much Does the Hiking Program Cost?

$ZERO!  The hiking program costs the scout nothing to join.  There may be an occasional entrance fee or program fee as well as traveling expenses.

What Should I Expect On a hike?

The length of hikes will range typically 2-5 miles. Older Scouts may opt for longer with appropriate leadership and youth protection requirements met.

Lions and Tigers have no problem with 2-4 mile hikes. Just ensure that the parent/guardian has plenty of water along, and a few snacks (for both of them). Lions and Tigers are required to have a parent/guardian on the hike with them at all times.

All hikes MUST have TWO deep leadership to proceed.  This means that an adult is assigned as the lead person of the group, so any obstructions or dangers on the trail are noticed.  We may allow an older Scout to “Lead”, allowing this scout to work on map reading and use of a compass. Additionally, an adult is assigned as the last person in the group.  No one is allowed behind this individual. This ensures that no one gets left behind.  The Pack hikes as a unit. We start together, break together, etc., with everyone following the same trail.

On longer hikes, we will typically eat lunch on the trail (practicing ”Leave No Trace” at all times). We will let you know if this is planned.  Scouts will carry water bottles and may use day packs.

On warmer weather hikes, a small water bottle is not enough for even the smallest Scout, please be sure that the Scout and parent-guardian have plenty of fluids. Sunscreen is always a must along with a hat (rimmed hat is pre­ferred).

During winter, prior to departure, double-check the dress of the Scouts to ensure they are properly prepared.

What Are the Leave No Trace Rules?

As we hike, Scouts will follow the “Leave No Trace Rules” at each outing. 

How Can Families get Involved?

How Should Hikers (Scouts and Family) Behave While on Hike?

What Are the Trail Rules?

What Awards Can I Earn?

Descriptions and requirements for the following awards can be found at the back of the scout handbook

Additional Achievements in each scout book may be fulfilled with activities included in the hiking program.  Please direct questions about achievements to your scout's den leader.

Helpful Resources