EVALUATION

Submitted by Leader Heber Slusser

ROUTE

The hike was designed to be sufficiently rigorous to push the scouts close to their limits of strength for short periods of time during each hiking day. Three of the eight days were cross country hiking days and three were trail hiking days. Most days covered about 5 miles however we had some very short hikes from one lake to another. We never encountered a situation where a scout didn't want to continue with a hike but they were always happy when we reached our destination. The effort expended during the hikes was commensurate with that of the prep hikes, however, our prep hikes were on improved trails or dirt roads that didn't prepare the scouts for the rocky, more difficult to walk, wilderness trails and cross country.

I recommend this hike for future years where the scouts are as strong and skilled as the ones this year. This trip should be advertised as a moderately difficult Thirty Miler through very beautiful country. The two layover days were welcome and should not be eliminated for future hikes on this same trail however, if Cherry Creek is not part of the trip (as it was eliminated this year due to unsafe high water) an additional lake, Spotted Fawn or Many Islands, should be included.

HIKE

All but one hike terminated at a lake and several lakes were passed or used for lunch breaks along the way. The weather was on the warm side, 80ºF, for most days and sleeping under the stars without shelters was the norm except for one night that threatened rain and one afternoon/evening in which we had rain accompanied with thunder and lightning.

EVALUATION

by Tina (SPL)

ROUTE Everything was so beautiful! I loved all of the cross-country! It really presented a challenge in many places. Finding a trail really makes you feel like you have accomplished something other than just following. Also not seeing many other people was incredibly worth it. This year, it was like you were really in the back country.

HIKE I loved walking up the waterfall, stopping at that one spot really was worth it. Cross country was THE best. Getting away from people really made the whole trip better.

HIGHLIGHTS I cannot answer what was great about the trip for other people, only what I liked and remembered. I'll try to remember what everyone enjoyed doing, though.

The layover. Having a day of rest just to look around, really get to know where you are, instead of continuously moving along really makes you feel at home.

Stopping at that waterfall thing. Its refreshing to be in control of our hike. I don't know who suggested it, but we (the scouts) were really in control of our hike.

The cross-country. At least Chrissey and I enjoyed the different terrain. It made the whole day so much more interesting.

EVALUATION

by Shannon (ASPL)

ROUTE Was BEAUTIFUL!!! It seemed easier than last year, with more time to relax and enjoy the scenery. We could have hiked a little more on the days we only hiked a mile or so.

HIKE Was wonderful! It went well and it seemed that everyone enjoyed themselves, I sure did.

COMMENTS I liked the day when we hiked up the side of the waterfall going into Little Bear. It was gorgeous! I think the girls got along better this year, and were more as one big group than separate little ones so we enjoyed each other more.

The food still needs work. Try to have the packs lighter.

EVALUATION

by Genie (leader)

ROUTE The route was great. Not too strenuous. No hell marches! The girls had a little trouble with some of the bushwhacking but overall I heard of no major complaints! They all had good attitudes.

HIKE The overall hike was a success. I think everyone had a good time. There were a few complaints here ant there (food being one of them), but I think everyone enjoyed the route.

COMMENTS

The girls liked:

1) The cross country from Flora to Little Bear - up the waterfall

2) Being able to relax and sleep in.

3) Swimming at Boundary Lake - in the warmer pond.

I was really happy to see all of the girls helping each other out! They all gave each other hands. Told each other about tricky spots on the trail. The cooperation amongst the girls was great! I enjoyed watching that!!

I enjoyed seeing all the girls make up and perform those songs the last night at the springs.

The trip was great. I even asked the girls how this year's trip compared to last years - and they said they liked it so much better.