For most young people, spending three days hiking through rugged terrain with everything they need strapped to their backs might sound daunting. For the Scouts of the 1st Margate Scout Group, it became an unforgettable adventure that taught them resilience, teamwork and confidence in ways no classroom ever could.
Earlier this year, the Troop completed a three-day, 21 km hike through Lake Eland Game Reserve in the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve. For many of the Scouts, it was their very first overnight hike. It wasn’t always easy. There were steep climbs, unexpected route changes and tired legs. But every challenge became another opportunity to learn.
“The hike had been years in the making,” explains Troop Scouter Caitlin Morton. “This year, we really wanted to make sure we planned it and went. Originally, I was looking at the Drakensberg, but I also wanted as many Scouts as possible to be able to attend, so I chose Lake Eland instead. I’ve been visiting there since I was little, so I knew it well and felt confident I could plan a fun and achievable adventure for our Scouts.”
Preparing for the hike began long before the first step on the trail. Weekly Troop meetings focused on practical outdoor skills including map reading, triangulation, taking bearings, interpreting contour lines, packing rucksacks and planning hikes. Skills that would soon prove invaluable.
“Even though the terrain was touch we all enjoyed the hike and wildlife along the way. One of the most notable challenges we faced, especially on the final day, was that the path on my map differed greatly from the actual path,” continues Caitlin. “It became a fantastic opportunity to teach the Scouts that no matter how much you prepare, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. You need to problem-solve, adapt, maybe even do a bit of bush-bashing, and keep moving forward. The important thing is not to panic or give up, but to study your maps, understand the terrain and keep pushing on. Rather than seeing the unexpected detours as setbacks, the Scouts embraced them as part of the adventure.”
For many of the young people, the hike was filled with firsts. “This was my first camp, and it was great,” says 11-year-old Scout Rachel. “The wildlife I saw was a big troop of wildebeest that passed over our path, as well as zebras, bok, and a couple of giraffes. I really enjoyed watching the wildlife and tops of cliffs. The whole thing was great, but I loved the scenic parts. The biggest challenge I faced was being organized with luggage and food supplies. Luckily the Scout I shared a tent with, Ashleigh, kept us organized and tidy! I learned so much including four ways to crawl for stalking and how to find North using the shadow stick method,” she explains excitedly. While hiking is often seen as an individual challenge, Rachel quickly discovered that success depended on supporting one another. “I learned that it was very important to work as a Patrol because with the tough terrain and cliffs it would be very easy to injure yourself. When asked how important it is for young people like herself to get outdoors, she adds:” I think it’s a great opportunity to be away from technology and phones and to just experience fun adventures while you are still young.”
“It was wonderful to watch them looking out for each other. If someone started lagging, another Scout would walk with them, so they weren’t left behind. They shared food and electrolyte drinks when someone wasn’t feeling well. They were constantly encouraging one another,” continues Troop Scouter Caitlin.
12-year-old Storm echoes what Rachel experienced. “The hike was fun. I got to know people better. I also enjoyed the wildlife like the zebras and giraffes. Those were interesting, especially the zebra who were blocking the road and then moved. The most challenging thing for me was the hike up hill because the buckles on my bag kept coming loose. The best part was learning to stalk and how to put on camo paint as part of our Veldcraft badge. I was glad when we got to the end as I didn’t have to walk anymore but wish it had been a bit longer. I would definitely go on another hike – I loved it!”
“I am so proud of all my Scouts,” continues Cailtin. “There were a few I was worried about before the hike, but they kept surprising me. They didn’t complain; they just kept pushing and encouraging each other. For most of them, this was their first overnight hike, and they stayed so positive throughout. Every Scout completed the full 21 km route!”
For Caitlin, helping young people reconnect with nature is one of Scouting’s greatest strengths. “I think outdoor adventures help young people build confidence and problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Many young people today don’t spend enough time outdoors or experience nature, and because of that they don’t always appreciate how beautiful our world is. Outdoor activities teach independence, adaptability and resilience in ways that are often harder to learn in a classroom. It was so refreshing to see the Scouts out in nature, without the worries of school or the distractions of social media. They all seemed so free and happy. It was really special to witness.
I would encourage parents and young people to get involved in Scouting adventures. They are a wonderful way to build confidence, make lifelong friends, learn valuable life skills and develop a deeper appreciation for nature. For me, some of my very best memories come from outdoor adventures, and I know these Scouts have created memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
For the Scouts of 1st Margate, the 21 kilometres they walked were measured in far more than distance. They were measured in courage, resilience, friendship and the confidence that comes from discovering just how capable you are when you step outside of your comfort zone.