Hiking, trekking, walking or whatever you want to call it a great, simple to organise activity that can be offered at every level of Scouts. A similar activity to plan is Cycling where you can not only organise age-appropriate trips but also teach young people about bicycle maintenance
From a simple walk around the local community to a multi-day expedition the opportunities are endless. As well as providing exercise there are opportunities for planning, navigating and leading as well as linking into numerous Badges and more Adventurous Activities (with the appropriate Permits)
However even some fairly basic activities still require suitable preparation and potentially training though much of this can be sourced locally. In planning your hiking, you should consider, where you intend to walk and the required skills to safely run the activity.
Some guidance can be found at:
https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/
In particular you should ensure that the activity:
- Is Approved: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/approving-activities-guidance-for-commissioners
- Meets the guidance for non-remote terrain (known as terrain zero) otherwise you will require an Adventurous Activity Permit: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/hillwalking/terrain-zero-activities/
- Has had a Risk Assessment carried out: https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/risk-assessments/
If you plan an overnight stay, then a Nights Away Permit will be required: https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/nights-away/
For more information contact: Martin David, County Activities leader, email: martin.david@surrey-scouts.org.uk
Some ideas on organising Hikes with a purpose can be found at:
Whilst the Scouts Expedition Challenge Award, Chiefs Scout Awards and DofE all have a hiking / expedition element to them
Peak ASU and the Surrey Scouts Skills Academy both run training courses where leaders can learn suitable skills
