About the Course
Are you preparing to lead a unit on a High Adventure trek to Philmont, Sea Base, Northern Tier, or a local wilderness backpack trip? Adult Basic Backpacking is designed to give leaders, advisors, and committee members the practical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to plan and execute safe, enjoyable backcountry backpacking trips.
Whether you are new to wilderness trekking or looking to refresh your outdoor skill set, this multi-part training course covers everything from gear selection and trail navigation to backcountry safety and meal planning.
Who Should Attend?
Scouts BSA Adult Leaders & Assistant Scoutmasters planning wilderness trips
High Adventure Contingent Advisors preparing for national or local treks
Venturing Crew Advisors & Committee Members
Parents and Registered Adults looking to gain backcountry camping confidence
Note: All participants must be registered adult members of Scouting America and maintain current Youth Protection Training (YPT).
What You Will Learn
The Adult Basic Backpacking course combines classroom instruction, equipment demonstrations, and hands-on practical application.
Gear & Equipment: Backpack sizing, layering systems, tents, sleeping systems, and trail weight management.
Meal Planning & Cooking: Backcountry nutrition, stove operation, water purification, and bear-safe food storage.
Navigation & Route Planning: Topographic map reading, compass use, trail prep, and trek budgeting.
Health & Safety: Wilderness risk management, foot care, hygiene, and emergency protocols.
Leave No Trace (LNT): Outdoor ethics and minimizing environmental impact in backcountry settings.
Course Structure & Schedule
In the past this course was offered once or twice a year in the following format:
Pre-Course Orientation Meeting(s): Classroom or virtual sessions covering gear preparation, meal planning, and trek logistics.
Overnight Shakedown Hike: A practical weekend field exercise where participants apply their skills, test gear, and experience a realistic backcountry campout
Due to limited interest, it has been discontinued. However, we might be open to resuming if there is a renewed interest. Please reach out to the Monmouth Council Training Chair if you have a small group interested.
What to Bring
A detailed packing list is provided upon registration, but general gear requirements include:
Official BSA Uniform (Class A) and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing
Personal tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
Pocketknife, compass, flashlight/headlamp, and mess kit
Current BSA Annual Health and Medical Record (Parts A & B)
