HIGH ADVENTURE EXPEDITIONS
The National Boy Scout High Adventure Bases have provided Scouts with challenging outdoor experiences, fostering leadership skills, and promoting a love for nature and adventure.
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The idea of high adventure programs for Boy Scouts began to take shape in the early 20th century, as Scout leaders recognized the need for more challenging and immersive outdoor activities. In 1938, the first national high adventure base, Philmont Scout Ranch, was established in New Mexico. Covering about 220 square miles of rugged terrain, Philmont became a mecca for Scouts seeking backpacking, camping, and wilderness survival experiences. Its creation marked a turning point in Scouting, emphasizing self-reliance and outdoor skills.
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In the 1960s, the BSA established its second high adventure base, the Northern Tier National High Adventure Bases, located in Ely, Minnesota. This base focused on canoeing and wilderness exploration in the pristine lakes and forests of the Canadian border region. With its emphasis on water-based activities, the Northern Tier provided Scouts with unique challenges and opportunities for camaraderie.
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The third addition to the National Boy Scout High Adventure Bases came in 1980, with the creation of the Florida Sea Base. Situated in the Florida Keys, this base offered Scouts the chance to participate in sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine science programs. The Florida Sea Base appealed to Scouts with a passion for aquatic adventures and marine ecosystems.
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Chattanooga-area Scouts have attended programs at these bases, sometimes as part of a Council-organized expedition, a troop adventure, or with the Order of the Arrow.
1954
1953-10-30 - Explorer Scouts Will Visit Ranch
1955-01-24 - Cherokee Area Boy Scouts' Chief Says 1954 Their Best Year So Far
1956
1956-06-24 - 5 Vacancies Remain for Scout Excursion
1956-08-11 - Explorer Scouts Leave for Camp
1957
1956-01-31 - Western Trip is Plan for Explorer Scouts
1963
A 12-day expedition to the 127,000 acre Philmont Scout Ranch at Cimarron, N.M., is being planned for a maximum of 30 boys, 14-years of age or older, registered in scouting in the Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America announced. Don Jones, advisor of Post 2043, will be the leader of the group leaving Chattanooga July 3 by Trailways Bus. (source)