PLAN: High desert campout, skills and advancement training, bouldering, and real rock climbing at Joshua Tree. Advancement training and rock climbing will start at 8 AM on Saturday and run thru noon on Sunday. *MANDATORY ROCK CLIMBING TRAINING for first time climbers (scout and adult) is at our November 14 Troop meeting.
WHEN: FRIDAY, November 17, meeting at 6:30 PM behind the Jack in the Box (2101 Palos Verdes Drive North), returning there on SUNDAY around 4 PM. ABSOLUTELY NO ROCK CLIMBING OR BOULDERING until after the Saturday morning Safety Briefing.
WHERE: Meet at Jack in the Box parking lot (2101 Palos Verdes Drive North) and drive to Joshua Tree National Park, Indian Cove group sites 11, 12 & 13. Three hours by car (without traffic).
BRING: Bring a bike or skateboard helmet for bouldering, soft soled, low cut laced tennis shoes and gloves (that fit) if you are planning to rock climb and rappel. Wear Troop 658 T-shirt and loose fitting pants or preferably shorts for rock climbing. Do not try to climb in hiking boots and jeans! Bring your 10 essentials, sleeping bag, thermal pad, tent or ground cover, personal gear, and first aid kit. Bring $15-$20 for food Friday and Sunday while driving to and from the park. Patrols bring stoves, cooking and cleaning/washing equipment. The troop will provide a 5 gallon water container for each patrol.
PL/PG’s must submit menus to SPL & SM by November 7 if NOT USING the menu for a cooking requirement and by October 30 to the Scoutmaster or a Cooking MB counselor if going for 1st Class cooking requirement or the Cooking MB.
FEES: Climbing adults and Scouts pay $75 for basic climbing fee which include, 2 night of camping, climbing equipment wear out costs, and campfire snacks. Non-climber Adults pay $60 which include, 2 nights of camping, parking, and campfire snacks. Non-climbers do not need any harnesses or other equipment. No sign-ups or refunds after November 7. The tubular nylon harnesses, which are needed for climbers, are just $11 and good for up to 5 years. Climbers are welcome to bring and use their own equipment, but this equipment must be inspected and approved before being used for climbing with the Troop. Orders for nylon harnesses required by November 7!
FOOD: Please sign up for the Scout/Adult meals on Cheddar Up, fees apply.
HELP: Registered parents are encouraged to sign-up and attend. Drivers will be needed and everyone is strongly encouraged to carpool. Maps will be distributed on Friday evening at Jack in the Box or emailed, if travelling separately.
Rock Climbing has been an integral part of Troop 658's history. Learn more about our Joshua Tree Adventure and Rock Climbing Special Awards. View our Gallery.
Visit https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/indian-cove-campground.htm to learn more about Indian Cove Campground.