On October 22nd, 2017 our adventurous pack and their families set out to summit Mount Wachusett. The pack met in the parking lot of the ski resort, at the base of the Balance Rock trail. After a review of hiking safety, the Outdoor Code, the Six Hiking Essentials, buddy assignment, and a big group stretch, the group set off up the trail and onto adventure! The hike was an exhilarating 3.75-mile loop, following a portion of the MidState Trail, and reached the summit via Old Indian Trail. The hike crossed two ski trails, Challenger and Look Mom!, giving the group a beautiful view of the valley below. Along the way, the boys and girls looked for signs of wildlife, collected leaves, and did other activities towards completion of various belt loops. Once at the top, the scouts enjoyed lunch and snacks as well as a 360-degree view from atop a Fire Tower. The parents and leaders even had some cool photo opportunities. One Bear Scout exclaimed, “It’s so clear you can see the city [Boston] from the top!”. The entire trip proved to be a great introduction to hiking for some of our younger scouts. It was a fabulous day made extra special by the great turnout.
