Hiking is one of the forthcoming new Cub Scout belt loops for the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program.
I have received from an unofficial source this set of requirements for the soon-to-be available award:
Requirements
Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or community environment. A Tiger Cub must work with his parent or adult partner. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.
Belt Loop
Complete these three requirements:
1. Explain the hiking safety rules to your den leader or adult partner. Practice these rules while on a hike.
2. Demonstrate proper hiking attire and equipment.
3. Hike at least 30 minutes with your adult partner, family, or den.
Sports Pin
Earn the Hiking belt loop and complete five of the following requirements:
1. Make a chart and record at least five hours of hiking.
2. Help plan a den, pack, or family hike.
3. Earn Cub Scouting’s Leave No Trace Awareness Award.
4. Earn the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award.
5. Learn seven trail signs and tell your den leader or adult partner what they are.
6. Be able to identify five different trees and five different birds on your hike. (These can be of the same species if multiple species are hard to find.)
7. Using pictures or photographs, identify three poisonous plants. (Examples are poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak; oleander, poinsettia, etc.). Watch for these
8. Take two different hikes for different purposes, for example, a nature hike, neighborhood hike, historical hike, city hike, stop-look-and listen hike, and so on.
9. Explain to your den leader or adult partner what a compass is and show how to use one on a hike.
10. Explain to your den leader or adult partner what a global positioning system is and demonstrate how to use one on a hike.
11. With visuals such as pictures or maps, report about one of your hikes to your den. Tell about how you prepared for your hike, who went with you, and what you saw.
[Photo updated 2009-10-29]
I think this is the best idea for a belt loop in some time. Scouting is supposed to be about outing and we should promote hiking etc. from a young age. Just about every kid in my den could earn this loop and pin today if it had been part of the program.
Great addition to the Cub Program, and very do-able. Going to be on my Bear Den’s agenda this year!