This campout was largely designed to give the new scouts a chance make new friends in our Troop and so they can see kind of how things work on a campout. We did a 6 mile hike on the Highline Trail, then came back and everyone learned some Scout skills – even the Adult Scouts!
One of our two fundraisers for the year was held on 16 April. We had a great turnout of Scouts as well as parents and collected ~$1200! Thanks to those who promoted the event, came to get their car washed, and helped actually do the washing! Special thanks to Gunnell’s Tire and Auto for letting us use their parking lot and water!
3-5 Feb our Troop visited Kartchner Caverns State Park. We did a service project, visited the caverns, cooked, enjoyed the “Dark Skies” and a campfire (because it was cold! 20 deg F!)
Saturday 22 Jan the troop went to Flagstaff and did the “Snow Play” area at Fort Tuthill.
On December 4th, the troop went on an urban bike ride through town. Lots of people came and rode around a designated route. People had lots of fun before, after, and during the ride.
On the 13th of November, the troop went on a day hike at the Tonto Natural Bridge. The hike went underneath the natural bridge, and many sights were seen there.
Troop 653 joined the veterans parade on November 11th. The parade showed thanks to the veterans who honorably fought to defend our country.
On December 16, the scout troop hiked the wind caves. The almost 3 mile hike was enjoyed greatly, although relatively short.
Maverick was a 2-night camping trip during September from the 24th to the 26th. While there, activities and games from many troops were played and enjoyed. A service project was also done, helping prevent ladder fires. Everyone there enjoyed the brief trip.
Flag X was a campout from the 27th to the 29th of August. This year’s annual trip consisted of zip-lines, high-up parkour, and climbing. All of these activities happened way up in the trees.
