Introductory Backpack Trip to Little Jimmy – Click for Details

TROOP 355 INTRODUCTORY BACKPACK TRIP
ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST
LITTLE JIMMY TRAIL CAMP

WHEN: Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 2015

WHERE: Islip Saddle to the Little Jimmy Trail Camp along the Pacific Crest Trail in the Angeles National Forest. A classic Boy Scout backpacking trip. After setting up camp, we will leave our packs and summit Mt. Islip for an incredible view of the San Gabriel Mountains.

DIFFICULTY: The hike to Little Jimmy is 2.1 miles each way on the Pacific Crest Trail. There is about a 900 foot elevation gain on the hike into camp. We will take the hike slow and easy. This is perfect for first time backpackers. If you can carry a duffle bag, you can do this trip. It is a great trip for those who want to get involved in our backpacking program, and who may wish to go to Philmont in the future.

COST: $10 per hiker. Deadline to confirm your spot is Monday night, September 21. Bring your check made out to BSA Troop 355 to the September 14 troop meeting or the September 21 BOR, or mail to:

Kelly Moffat
2280 Adair Street
San Marino, CA 91108

AVAILABILITY: This is an introductory backpack. Everyone is welcome. If you have ever had an interest in backpacking, this is the opportunity to try it! Dr. Snaer will host a backpacking seminar on Monday, September 14 at 6:30 PM at the Scout House, before the troop meeting. Come learn what to pack.

MEET: At the Scout House at 7:00 AM on Saturday, September 26. We will divide troop gear and food then depart for the trailhead. The trip to the trailhead is about 11⁄2 hours. We should return to the trailhead Sunday morning by 11:00 AM and be home by 1:00 PM.

MEALS: Eat a big breakfast on Saturday morning before the trip. Otherwise you may bonk! Bonking is not cool, it hurts. Don’t bonk! Bring your own trail lunch Saturday, and bring your own breakfast for Sunday morning (energy bars, oatmeal, breakfast skillets). The troop will provide Saturday’s dinner, as well as all the cooking gear you may need. Saturday’s dinner will be prepared by individual crews (Philmont style) – the crews will be announced Wednesday night, September 23 by e-mail.

SPECIAL NOTES:
It might be cold (40 degrees) at night, be prepared with long johns and a beanie hat to sleep in, a good sleeping bag, a jacket and gloves. Of course always bring your rain gear! Bring bug repellent. And…bring toilet paper. BE PREPARED.
The troop leaders are always available to discuss equipment – please contact any of them if you have questions about gear for the trip.

Any cars parking at Islip Saddle will need a National Forest Adventure Pass available at your sporting goods store (REI, Sports Chalet).

DIRECTIONS TO THE TRAILHEAD: There is a large parking lot at the trailhead. However, it is always a good idea to car pool. Fill your car up with Scouts and backpacks. Take the 210 west to the Angeles Crest Highway 2 north. Drive approximately 39 miles to the parking lot at Islip Saddle. The parking lot is on the left side of the road just one mile past the tunnels on the Angeles Crest Highway. Hang your Adventure Pass on your rear view mirror.