Indian Peaks Backpacking Expedition

October 3, 2023

Webmaster Update

In August 2023, Troop 72 embarked on an exciting three-day, two-night backpacking trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The adventure was packed with beautiful scenery, wildlife sightings, and plenty of challenges that made it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

For the backpacking portion, the troop split into two groups: one group hiked halfway up the trail, while the other tackled the full 7-mile trek to Crater Lake, where they camped for the first night. The first day was particularly tough, with steep inclines and heavy backpacks making for a strenuous climb. The weight of the gear early in the trip tested everyone’s endurance, but the scouts stayed motivated and supported each other along the way.

Because the Indian Peaks Wilderness is bear country, the scouts followed strict food storage protocols. All food and scented items had to be hung high in trees whenever they weren’t being actively used. This helped prevent bears and other wildlife from accessing the supplies and ensured the safety of both the animals and the campers.

The second day allowed for some well-deserved rest with a later start, followed by day hikes to several nearby lakes. Along the way, scouts enjoyed spotting moose, vibrant wildflowers, and stunning waterfalls, which added to the natural beauty of the trip.

On the final day, the group packed up and made their way back down to the trailhead. With lighter packs and a mostly downhill route, the hike went much faster and was a welcome change from the uphill grind of day one.

Overall, the Indian Peaks backpacking trip was an incredible adventure that brought the troop closer to nature and to each other. The scouts gained valuable experience and created lasting memories, and Troop 72 looks forward to returning to this breathtaking wilderness area for future trips.