The Troop Day Hike will be Saturday, March 9th at the Upton State Forest in Upton MA. We will meet at the parish center at 8.30 AM so that we have sufficient day light for the hike. We will return for pick up at the parish center by approximately 3:30 PM that afternoon. Scouts need to bring: a bag lunch, poncho or rain coat if it looks like rain that day, boots, a hat and gloves/mittens. A spare pair of socks is a must to bring. If the weather is cold, bring a warm coat as well. Scouts should bring two quarts/liters of water (no soda, juice, punch, etc.). Do not bring water in disposable water bottles - get a canteen or hiking water bottle at Wal-Mart, Target, etc. for about $5-$10; they last forever. Scouts need to bring a day pack (school pack will work fine) to carry their personal and troop gear for the day.

The Upton State Forest is a great place to hike and explore. The trails are local, has caves to explore, ponds to slide on, beaver dams, and many wildlife to see. There are many “one off’ trails” that we can explore too. The troop did this trail many years ago. It is great for all levels of ability and a terrific trail for the younger and new scouts to join as we will tackle a 5 mile route.

No fast food stops are planned for this trip, so no pocket money is needed. We will return to St. Mary’s for pick up between 3 and 3.30pm. Scouts will call ahead if we are earlier than that.

If your son will be attending the hike, please complete the permission slip and return it no later than the March 7th troop meeting. If you son would like to attend but won’t be at this troop meeting, please call or email Ron Gorham at 508-868-8793 or rgorham29@gmail.com We will need a few parents to drive to/from and/or stay for the event. If you can help out please indicate on the permission slip.