A group of enthusiastic scouts from Troop 63 recently participated in the annual Scouts on Skis program at Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, West Virginia. This event, organized by the Old North State Council, allows scouts to experience winter sports and enjoy the company of fellow scouts.
The scouts, including Luke Johnson, Ethan Scout, Owen West, Beckett Shaw, and Sam Miller, along with their leaders, started their adventure with lunch at Fat Paddy’s in Huntington, West Virginia. They then traveled to the Summit Bechtel Scout Reservation for an exciting Saturday night.
Summit Bechtel Scout Reservation, located in the mountains of West Virginia, offers a wide range of outdoor activities and programs for scouts. The scouts stayed in Base Camp Pigott, which features dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and private restrooms. They also had access to a gathering room with a television, tables, and chairs for relaxation and bonding. Summit Bechtel Reserve is a world-class scouting facility that spans over 14,000 acres and is home to the National Scout Jamboree. It offers a wide range of outdoor adventures beyond skiing, including rock climbing, skateboarding, BMX, zip lining, and whitewater rafting. The reserve also features state-of-the-art sustainability features and promotes conservation efforts.
The next day, the scouts went to Winterplace Ski Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. The resort offers a variety of slopes, from beginner-friendly bunny hills to challenging black diamonds. Winterplace is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain, featuring 27 slopes, nine lifts, and a terrain park. It also offers snow tubing, night skiing, and a variety of dining options. Winterplace is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, with a focus on environmental sustainability. The scouts took advantage of the comprehensive ski package, which included lift tickets, ski rentals, helmet rentals, and group lessons.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the scouts worked on their Winter Sports merit badge. Led by instructor Ed Henry, they learned about various winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and practiced their skills on the slopes.
To earn the Winter Sports merit badge, Scouts must demonstrate knowledge and skills in various winter sports. Some of the requirements include:
- Understanding the risks and safety precautions associated with winter sports. This includes knowing how to dress appropriately for cold weather, how to identify and avoid hazards on the slopes, and how to respond in case of an emergency.
- Demonstrating proficiency in a chosen winter sport. This could be skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Scouts must show that they can safely and effectively perform basic techniques and maneuvers in their chosen sport.
- Learning about the history and development of winter sports. Scouts should be familiar with the origins of different winter sports, how they have evolved over time, and their cultural significance.
- Understanding the environmental impact of winter sports. Scouts should be aware of the potential impact of winter sports on the environment and how to minimize their footprint. This includes practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting wildlife.
By fulfilling these requirements, Scouts gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for winter sports while developing valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied in various aspects of their lives.
The scout leaders also joined the fun, showcasing their skiing skills and encouraging the scouts. The event was a success, with the scouts returning home with new skills, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for winter.
More Photos to come!