Austin Creek Backpacking Trip

November 13 & 14, 2004

 

WHAT:  Austin Creek State Recreation Area, containing twenty miles of hiking trails, is located in the Russian River region 75 miles north of San Francisco. This 5,683-acre park’s rugged topography of open forest and rolling hills gives a sense of being in a scenic wilderness, even though the visitor is close to urban development.  Elevations within the park range from 150 feet above sea level to almost 1,900 feet on Marble Mine Ridge.  Be prepared to climb! 

WHEN:  Arrive at the clubhouse at 7:30 AM on Saturday, November 13th, to arrange food, sort patrol gear and set car assignments.  We will leave promptly at 8:00 AM.  We will return to San Francisco by approximately 3:00 PM on Sunday November 14th.

ADVANCEMENT:  This trip offers excellent advancement opportunities for all, especially those seeking to achieve Tenderfoot, Second and First Class.  This counts towards the camping merit badge and as a troop activity.  T88 HAT members should be using this trip as part of their training.   Please review your requirements so that all those attending are prepared for the advancement opportunities.  It is the scout’s responsibility to monitor their own advancement.

WHAT TO BRING:  You will need a backpack (adults included!)  If you do not have one, ask Chad Hamilton or Michael Dotson about the lend/lease program.  Good boots are also essential.  See our website at www.T88SF.org for a list of essential backpacking items.  Do not bring everything on the list!  Scouts new to backpacking should be consulting with an older scout regarding gear to bring and scout skills required on the trip.  Be prepared for rain.  Bring a trail lunch for Saturday and money to buy lunch on the way home on Sunday. 

Carry at least two water bottles, as tap water will not be available.  We will be using water filters and plastic water totes to bring water to the campsite.

Don’t forget to bring a completed permission form and money to reimburse the cooks for the food they purchased and drivers for toll and gas.

This is a great hike for adults to join their son on a fun outdoor activity.

Check out the website: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=452

Adult Leaders:  Chad Hamilton – 282-5724

                          Richard Pon – 665-5544