Leader Resource CenterPioneer Clubs

HIT THE TRAIL

To earn this award, complete and check off each requirement:

1. Get ready.
2. Take two hikes.
3. Walk God’s way.

1. Get ready. (do all)
Pack your backpack.
Think of the supplies you want to take on your hike. In the backpack below, draw or write where you will pack them. Pack so you can easily reach items you need while walking (such as water, snacks, binoculars). Distribute the heavy items so you can walk without bending. Place soft things next to your body. Pack small items in small bags first.

Check your safety aptitude.
Write A next to the statement if you agree that it’s a good idea for hiking, or write D if you disagree. Discuss your answers with an adult.

1.__________
When walking along roads, walk single file, facing oncoming traffic.

2.__________
Check if a plant is poisonous by tasting a little to see if it’s bitter.

3.__________
If you get lost, send one person off to look for help.

4.__________
Before stepping over rocks and logs in the trail, check for snakes.

5.__________
Clear running water in streams is safe to drink.

6.__________
Wear layers of clothing when hiking so they can be removed or added as needed.

7.__________
Socks are not needed for a hike on a hot day.

8.__________
Write out a hiking plan, and leave it with your parents or a friend.

9.__________
It’s okay to hike alone if you leave a hiking plan with someone.

10.__________
Set a pace that’s fast enough to make everyone pant a bit.

11.__________
Bring plenty of water.

12.__________
Memorize the path you’re taking so you don’t have to carry a map.

13.__________
Avoid bushes or vines with three shiny leaves and white berries in a cluster.

14.__________
Getting wet as the temperature drops or the wind increases won’t chill you as long as you keep moving.

15.__________
You don’t need to worry about getting a rash from poison ivy if you’ve been exposed to it before and not been affected.


answers
1. A; 2. D; 3. D; 4. A; 5. D; 6. A; 7. D; 8. A; 9. D; 10. D; 11. A; 12. D; 13. A; 14. D; 15. D

Prepare trail food.
Prepare a high-energy trail mix (such as dried fruits, nuts, granola, and small candy-coated chocolates), and pack it in small plastic bags. Gather other foods that won’t melt, spoil, or be crushed in packing (such as apples and peanut butter).

Trail mix I prepared:

______________________________________________________

Other foods for the trail:

______________________________________________________

2. Take two hikes. (do both)
Take two hikes, one 5 miles (8 km) and the other 10 miles (16 km). Choose two of the hikes below, or come up with your own idea. Be sure to bring water, trail food, maps, and a first aid kit. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Wear layers of clothing. Dress for the terrain and weather. Carry back all litter.

Name It Hike
Bring various field guide books on birds, rocks and minerals, animals, wildflowers, trees, and so on, and see how many things you can identify on your hike.

Water Hike
Take a hike along a marsh, river, stream, or lake. Observe animal life there, especially reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

Community Hike
Hike to an interesting place in your community: zoo, museum, nature center, historical landmark. Map out your route beforehand, and follow the plan.

Tom Thumb Hike
On your hike, look for plants, animals, and insects the size of your thumb or smaller. Draw several of them for identification later.

Sound Hike
List as many different sounds as you can hear during your hike.

Animal Home Hike
See how many animal homes or nests you can find during your hike. Keep a list of those you find.

Binocular Hike
Hike to a wildlife area, and look for animals and birds both on the way and from a concealed spot there. Use binoculars to help you find them.

City Trees
Hike along tree-lined streets to a park. See how many types of trees you can identify.

Your hiking ideas:

______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________

Fill out a plan for each hike.
For each hike, write out a plan like the one below. Leave it with your parents (or a friend if your parents are hiking with you).


HIKING PLAN

Date
______________________________________________________

Starting time
______________________________________________________

Estimated return time
______________________________________________________

Destination
______________________________________________________

Route
______________________________________________________

Others going
______________________________________________________

3. Walk God’s way.
Read Deuteronomy 5:32-33. What is one way you can walk the way God directs?

______________________________________________________

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Awards © 2003 Pioneer Clubs. This award may be reproduced for use in Pioneer Clubs® Challenger clubs.