For those scouts interested in completing the 20 mile hike requirement for the hiking merit badge we are planning the hike on January 6, 2007.  The hike will be conducted on the West Orange Trail.  The point of commencement for the hike will be the “Apopka-Vineland Outpost”.  This Outpost is physically located at: 5794 North Apopka Vineland Road, Apopka, Florida 32703.  From this Outpost (which is located at mile 14 of the Trail) we will hike down to the Winter Garden Station (located at mile 5 of the Trail).   We plan on departing from the Apopka-Vineland Outpost at 7:00 am on January 6, 2007.  A more detailed map of the trail can be found at the follow web page:  http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/eastcentral/trails/west_orange.htm

 

At 20 mile hike is, without question, a very demanding hike.  We expect that senior scouts, the scouts who completed a Trek at the Philmot Scout Ranch and perhaps scouts who completed an AT hike are primary candidates for this hike.  We will hike with lighter day packs and ample water.  Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots or shoes are critical for this hike.  We plan on stopping for lunch at the Winter Garden Station.  Aside from this break we intend to take minimal breaks.  At an average pace of 3-3.5 miles per hour the hike will take a minimum of 6 hours exclusive of breaks.

 

There is an opportunity for younger scouts to take hikes of shorter duration (5 or 10 mile hike).  For this to occur we will need at least 2 adult advisors for the younger scouts to agree to attend the hike.  I will be happy to work with them to plan a shorter hike if there is sufficient interest.  I would request that anyone interested in attending this hike contact me at:  bmoran@moran-shams.com