The Barred Owls rock their Arroyo "night" outing; 3/4/17

Let’s start at the end. When the Barred Owls walked off the trail at N. Chuckanut, they had just hiked for a half hour (about 3/4 mi.) in the dark without using a headlamp. I was prepared to give the OK for artificial light about half way through, but no need. They stretched their edge (motto) on this night: your Explorers were up to the challenge!

Throughout the outing, the mentors found opportunities to talk with the boys about using all their senses, anticipating the need to listen for the creek when the trail was less visible, or to focus on the feel of the ground through their boots to detect off-trail wandering. Our task was made easier by light from a 1st quarter moon, courtesy of a clearing sky thanks to a break in the rain/snow. 

Before hiking out, we spent time creekside carving (please check out our knife safely video) and sharing tea. As night began to make its presence known, we made sure our headlamps were accessible and we were each dressed warmly enough. As our “Be prepared” motto states, “A prepared explorer is a happy – and safe – explorer.” This is especially important come nightfall, of course. Because we didn’t have any issues with preparedness, we were able to relax and immerse ourselves in this spectacular natural spot. Props to the Barred Owls for being well prepared!

Prior to descending the hill to the creek, we engaged in a spirited game of Spider’s Web in a location that is very demanding for the flies. A mini-Grand Canyon that carries a stream toward Chuckanut Creek provides a commanding vantage point for the spider and little cover for the encroaching flies. The flies shared information; we tried different routes (including charging full speed straight for the “food source”); we got very muddy. Alas, none of it worked. The game ended in a stalemate. 

Life is like that some times. Try as you might, you can’t bend fate to your will. Significant for the mentor’s goals for the Barred Owls, however, was the fact that they chose to play Spider’s Web. They also chose to explore Chuckanut Creek below the N. Chuckanut parking lot after our opening meeting (see first photo below). These decisions were a result of collaboration and compromise (motto) by the Explorers, capably led by their Tribal Elder. Expect more liberty and responsibility as your Explorers grow and change.

Initially, our afternoon was relaxed, as is evident in this shot. The deliberate pace set the tone for a reflective outing.

We stumbled on a partially constructed shelter and quickly deemed it a "backpackrack". 

Mentor Jedidiah checks in with a well prepared Explorer.

The route to our carving/sharing tea spot involved crossing Chuckanut Creek on a log bridge. Here, Explorers Mentor Apprentice (EMA) Logan helps us climb down to creekside.

The boys chose a carving project to work on through the Spring. Most took to the task with characteristic energy and focus.

Safe carving involves ensuring that when your knife slips, which it will, it doesn't cut you. The Explorers on either side of Mentor Jedidiah are using proper spread-legged technique.

Ready to hike back in the dark!

Quick turnaround! As a few of the boys pointed out to me on Saturday, our next outing is this Sunday, March 12 (daylight savings starts this day) at Lookout Mountain Forest Preserve. So, check the rest of the photos quickly, then have a look at the schedule for details on Sunday's outing. See you at the trailhead.