Troop 90 hikes Appalachian Trail

FRANKLIN — Franklin Troop 90 took a backpack hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail. The troop started at Buttermilk Falls on Friday night and hiked 2 miles at a 45-degree incline to get to our site and set up camp in the dark.

On Saturday, the troop had breakfast and broke camp by 8 a.m. The troop then hiked 9 miles during the day Saturday.

There were meals on the trail that included oatmeal for breakfast, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch, and Ramen soup for dinner. The boys carried all of their gear in their packs and shared the troop gear which included the tents, cooking stoves, food, and drinks.

On Sunday morning, the troop finished the final 3 miles of the trek. The total distance, it completed over the three days was 14 miles.

While hiking along the trail, the group met other hikers, experienced some of the great scenery and landscape that this area of the trail has to offer, and other camping groups.

While the trail was difficult and challenging at times, the boys rose to the occasion and completed the planned trek successfully. During the trek the troop stopped for water breaks where it had a filtration pump so the boys could safely drink some of the spring water naturally occurring in the site.

If anyone is interested In joining Scouts, contact Scoutmaster Gary Hintzen at 973-827-3194.