See What’s Going On
Please click the boxes to learn more about our most popular events. Below, you will find a full calendar with ALL events.
Cub Launch Saturdays
Saturdays in September and October at multiple locations including Beaumont Scout Reservation
$10 per Cub Scout and Cub Scout-age siblings
Sponsored by Zanfel Laboratories
Due to COVID-19, the local county, and state safety regulations, what has been previously known as “Cub Launch” will now go by the name of Cub Launch Saturdays. It is a spin on the regular Cub Launch program and provides new and existing Cub Scouts an opportunity to go to camp and safely participate in Scouting activities.
Cub Scout Saturday Activities:
BB gun shooting, Archery, Hike the Bobcat Trail (learn what you need to know to get your Bobcat badge!), and a STEM demonstration and activity **activities may change depending on location, the activities listed here are at Beaumont Scout Reservation
- Each Saturday session will adhere to 50-person maximum restrictions and 6 feet of social distancing
- Due to the maximum attendee restrictions we ask that only one parent attends with a child or one parent with multiple children to ensure as many kids can get a great experience.
- Masks are required for each person over the age of 9 years old in Missouri; 2 years or older in Illinois
- Each registration link below will have more information based on that specific location
COVID Safety Precautions and Procedures
Locations & Dates:
- Beaumont Scout Reservation: Sept. 12, 19, 26 & Oct 3, 10, 17, 24 REGISTER HERE
- Wentzville: Sept 19 & Oct 3 REGISTER HERE
- Cape Girardeau Jackson City Park: Sept. 19 REGISTER HERE
- Camp Vandeventer: Sept. 19 REGISTER HERE
- Camp Joy: Sept. 19 REGISTER HERE
- Rhodes France: Sept. 19 & 26 REGISTER HERE
- O'Fallon Sportsman Club: Oct 3 & 17 REGISTER HERE
- Camp Warren Levis: Sept. 26 REGISTER HERE
- Ozark Trail Blazers: Oct. 3 REGISTER HERE
Fall Fright Fest
October 12 from 2–9 p.m.
Beaumont Scout Reservation
Register at https://scoutingevent.com/312-2019FallFrightFest
Fall Fright Fest Event Details:
- What is it? Start the event with a storyteller who sets the scene, encounter the haunted forest, walk through the pirate ship, explore the fort, and then end your walk with homemade slime and receive a goody bag full of treats!
- Sessions leave every 15-30 minutes. Guides will walk you through the event.
- Event Cost: $10 per attendee
- Who can attend? Cub Scout and sibling friendly and age appropriate.
- Trading post and food concessions are available for purchase!
- Worried about being spooked? We recommend attending in the afternoon, but the whole event is for Cub Scouts and is age appropriate.
Haunted Hayride
Haunted Hayrides is a spooky good time for children and adults of all ages! Traditionally this event is held over two weekends in October at Camp Warren, open to all Scout units and families and the general public. Each hayride ride lasts about 20 minutes, showing the spookier, scarier side of Camp Warren Levis. Keep an eye out for the goblins and ghouls, and be careful about that noise in the woods…Come early or stay after your ride for time around the bonfire, and enjoy some chili and hot chocolate from the concessions stand.
2020 update: As of July 31, this event is not scheduled to occur in 2020 due to safety concerns from Covid-19.
Spookoree
October 18–20
Rhodes France Scout Reservation
Register at https://scoutingevent.com/312-2019Spookoree
Spookoree Event Details:
- Enjoy family camping while exploring the Magic & Mysteries at Rhodes France Scout Reservation! Families will move into camp on Friday, October 18th and will depart camp on Sunday, October 20th. The Friday evening meal is up to the unit/campers to provide (most units either eat before they come or have a weinie roast at their campsite!). Join us at Firebowl for a movie and snacks Friday night. A fun-filled Saturday may see you trick-or-treating, taking a ‘haunted’ hike, or so much more!
- Amateur Radio – Jamboree on the Air
- Punch Cards to enjoy all of the fun!
- Obstacle Course to test your skills!
- Family Fun for Everyone! Siblings, moms, dads, grandparents can all come and enjoy the activities.
- Open shooting for BB Guns and Archery Saturday!
- Magic & Mysteries Trail Walk
- Lots of fun with games such as Human Foosball, Gaga Ball, Soccer Darts, Soccer Billiards, Mini-golf, and more!
Mom & Me
Mom & Me is a weekend camp for Cub Scouts and their moms (or guardians), jammed pack with activities and outdoor adventure. Enjoy camp favorites like archery, BB guns, hiking, arts and crafts, games, and much more! Every year has a unique and fun theme that ties into the event shirts, crafts, and games. Not an expert camper, mom? No worries, we provide all the meals and programs, you just need a tent, a sleeping bag, and an overnight bag with any weekend away essentials.
This event is traditionally held at Camp Warren Levis in late September, but is currently not scheduled to occur in 2020 due to Covid-19 concerns.
Parent & Pal
Parents, it’s time to make some memories with your Cub Scouts as they catch their first fish, hit their first bulls-eyes, and explore the adventure and fun of the outdoors during Parent & Pal, your family’s perfect spring weekend campout. Programs will include Cub favorites like archery, BBs, fishing, and more.
This event is held at Camp Warren Levis, traditionally in mid-late April. We provide all the food and all the programming, so pack your weekend campout gear and enjoy!
2021 Dates will be released this fall.
For the latest on the 2020 event, visit the registration page.
Fishing
Valid state fishing permit is required for those between the ages of 16–65 wanting to fish on Greater St. Louis Area Council properties. You can purchase permits online at:
Missouri: https://mdc-web.s3licensing.com/
Illinois: https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/LPR/Pages/FishingLicensesFees.aspx
UPCOMING FISHING EVENTS:
Scout and Adult Fishing Day –REGISTER
Webelos, Boy Scouts, and Venturers are invited to come enjoy a day of fishing on Nim’s Lake. Personal boats are permitted as long as trolling motors ONLY are used on the lake. Council canoes or rowboats will be available for use if requested. Everyone in a boat must be classified as a Swimmer according to the guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America and wear a PFD. You will also need to have completed Parts A and B of the Annual Health and Medical Form if you are going to be in a boat. Attendance prizes will be given. Coffee, Milk and Donuts will be available Saturday morning. If you have any questions, please contact Gary Anderson at (314) 422-4744.
FISHING & FLY FISHING OR FISH & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
October 25, 2020 | 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Camp Warren Levis
$25
Register
(Scouts must choose one merit badge to work on during the day)
Join us at Camp Warren Levis for a unique merit badge workshop on Fishing & Fly Fishing or Fish and Wildlife Management. We provide the needed gear and teachers, and together we will work on the merit badges.
Classes:
The merit badge will be taught in a series of rotating sessions on different topics. You will be signed off for the requirements that you complete.
- Balanced Systems
- Spin Casting Instruction
- Fly Casting Instruction
- Natural/ Artificial Baits
- Fly Tying Instruction
- Knots Instruction
- Fishing Safety, First Aid
- Fly Fishing Experience
- Fish Prep/ Cooking
Merit badge requirements include catching a fish. We cannot guarantee you will catch a fish on this day, but we will give you the opportunity!
*Please wear your Class A Uniform for the day.
Scouts will be responsible for bringing their own blue card(s) signed by their Scoutmaster to the event.
Complete Angler Award Service Project: This option is ONLY for Scouts who have earned all three fishing-related merit badges – fishing, fly fishing and fish and wildlife management and would like to earn the Complete Angler Award. In addition to earning all three fishing-related merit badges the Scout has to complete one of the following four service projects. Scouts registering for the Complete Angler Award Service Project will be able to complete the service project at the skill center.
Register here for the Complete Angler Award Service Project
Complete Angler Award Application
Your last step is to successfully complete one or more of the following projects:
- Teach a Fishing or Fly Fishing merit badge skill to your troop, crew or team as part of a unit program activity.
- Help instruct Cub Scouts on fishing skills or fishery management as part of a Cub Scout meeting or outing.
- Participate in a local fishing derby or tournament, either a Scouting or Community event.
- Complete a conservation project that will benefit a local fishery.
If a Scout is registering for a merit badge (fishing, fly fishing or fish and wildlife management) they CANNOT register for the Complete Angler Award Service Project.
Note: Scouts registering for the Complete Angler Award Service Project MUST bring proof they have earned fishing, fly fishing and fish and wildlife management merit badges. They can bring their blue cards (or photocopies of their blue cards) for these merit badges or a signed letter from their Scoutmaster stating the Scout applying for the Complete Angler Award has earned fishing, fly fishing and fish and wildlife merit badges. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
Winter Wonderland Nights
We’ve decked the halls at Beaumont Scout Reservation!
Join us for the first ever Winter Wonderland Nights!
Dec. 5, 6 & 7
- Holiday Festivities
- Photos with Santa
- Candy Cane Relay Races
- Holiday Movie Screening
- Sweet Treats
- Hot Cocoa Bar
- Decorate Holiday Cookies
- Gateway Traders Holiday Shopping
- Festive Activities
- Make Your Own Rudolph Ornament
- Prepare Reindeer Food
- Send a Letter to Santa
Annual Meeting & Recognition Dinner
Date To Be Determined
Collinsville Convention Center | Collinsville, IL
Join us for this late-spring event, which is open to all GSLAC Scouters, highlighted by the presentation of the year’s Silver Beaver Awards. The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition a Boy Scout council can bestow on an adult volunteer leader. The award is presented to those volunteers who have provided noteworthy service that impacts the lives of youth and and has made outstanding contributions to the Scouting program.
Congratulations to the 2020 Silver Beaver Class!
- Jeanne Burke (Cahokia Mounds)
- John Kirkpatrick (New Horizons)
- Mike Scully (Board)
- Terry Grime (St. Clair)
- Fred Brown (North Star)
- Jay Byington (Boone Trails)
- Malcolm Bliss (New Horizons)
- Ken Capps (Board)
- Eric Voss (Cahokia Mounds)
- Greg Gunyon (St. Clair)
- LaDonna Hudson (Boone Trails)
- Kevin Harrison (Gravois Trail)
- Jennifer Kedge (North Star)
- Jack Musgrave (Board)
- Rebecca Anderson (Pathfinder)
- Roosevelt Fair-Kincaid (Illini)
- Stanley Gooch (Egyptian)
- Chris Neilsen (Thunderbird)
- Sherry Watson (Shawnee)
- Cheryl Hohnbaum (Kaskaskia)
- Steve Lusietto (Arrowhead)
- Barb Machalek (River Trails)
- Eric Searcy (Osage)
- Brett Matthews (Cherokee)
- Steve Rasche (Board)
The Greater St. Louis Area Council presented its first Silver Beaver Awards in January 1932. Since then, the council has had more than 1,800 Silver Beaver recipients!
View the all-time Silver Beaver recipient list.
Memorial Day Good Turn
Sunday, May 24, 2020
CANCELED
| 70th Annual Gravois Trail Memorial Day Good Turn – CANCELED Jefferson Barracks Natl. Cemetery |
Jewish Relationships Committee Good Turn – CANCELED United Hebrew Congregation |
COVID 19 Update:
Thank you for your patience as National Cemetery Association was developing official Memorial Day guidance. Here is an update from the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery Director. “Unfortunately, per their guidelines, hosting gatherings of these sizes is not advisable due to concerns about COVID-19, therefore JBNC will not be holding a Memorial Day Ceremony this year. As such, gravesites flags will not be placed on gravesites by the Scouts of America this year. However, families may place small American flags at their Veteran’s gravesite if wish to do so. Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and I deeply appreciate the commitment and dedication of the Scouts and look forward to placing gravesites flags in 2021.”
2020 Jefferson Barracks Memorial Day Good Turn – CANCELED
| While Scouts can not participate in the Council’s annual Memorial Day Good Turn events this weekend, the Boy Scouts of America is calling on Scouts across the country to build on the tradition of honoring our nation’s fallen heroes this Memorial Day by posting public tributes to our veterans in partnership with the National Cemetery Administration and by participating in the National Moment of Remembrance with a special Scout salute. Learn more. |
Scouts of all ages are invited to participate in the Memorial Day Good Turn. Check-in for the Jefferson Barracks Good Turn, hosted by the Gravois Trail District, runs from 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. at their designated area by the cemetery. The procession to the Flag Ceremony will begin at 11:30 a.m. Upon check-in, the unit will receive a unit participation ribbon. A Memorial Day Good Turn patch will be available for $4: segment patch is $1.
Here’s some important information to know before you go:
- Plan for a hike. You will be walking 2-3 miles on the day of the event.
- The person who registers the unit should be your main contact person for the event.
- Please do not bring Unit or American Flags.
- No Parking will be allowed on the Cemetery Grounds. Plan on Parking in Sylvan Springs County Park on Sheridan Rd.
- Scouts and Scouters should be in uniform.
- Check the forecast before you head out. Bring rain gear, if necessary. The event is held rain or shine.
- Make sure you bring plenty of water for you and your Scouts. It’s also a good idea to bring hats and sunscreen.
- Damaged Flags should not be placed on a site. Instead please return damaged flags to a flag box.
- Remember the Scout Law and the purpose of the day. We are guests at Beasley Elementary and Jefferson Barracks Cemetery.
Jewish Relationships Committee Good Turn
Members of all religions and ages are invited to help place over 7,000 flags on the graves of our war veterans at St. Louis area Jewish cemeteries. The event is sponsored by the Jewish War Veterans and the Jewish Relations Committee of the Greater St. Louis Area Council. Free breakfast provided for participants. Youth will perform a brief ceremony at each grave site for a more meaningful experience.
ABOUT MEMORIAL DAY GOOD TURN
2018 Memorial Day Good Turn Photo Gallery
For more than six decades, approximately 5,000 Scouts have gathered at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery prior to Memorial Day to decorate each of the 150,000 graves with an American Flag. The tradition, in its 69th year in 2018, is one of the longest running Memorial Day events within the Boy Scouts of America.
The public is welcome to attend the event. Scouts from across the council assemble at the National Guard base and march into the cemetery where they proceed to the main flagpole near the center of the cemetery for an assembly and ceremony. A surprise guest speaker addresses the crowd.
Scouts honor those who served our country by raising the American Flag and then lowering it to half-mast as Scout buglers play “Taps.” Scouts who earned the rank of Eagle Scout- the highest rank in Scouting- during the past year serve as the color guard. Scouts and leaders then decorate each grave in the cemetery with a small American Flag.
It takes just two hours for Scouts to place more than 150,000 flags, which are provided by the cemetery.
In 1866, Jefferson Barracks was established as a national cemetery and today is one of the oldest interment sites of the National Cemetery Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.
Shoot-O-Ree
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Beaumont Scout Reservation | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
REGISTER
Walk-ins Welcome
The Shoot-O-Ree is open to registered Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturers. Scout-age siblings may participate too. Cub Scouts and Cub Scout-age siblings should have an adult partner present throughout the day.
All activities run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Scouts and Venturers can stop by at any time and stay for as long as they like.
Cub Scouts can choose from BB gun shooting, archery, sling shots, water balloons, rubber band shooters, marshmallow shooters, and more! Activities such as Tomahawk throwing, handguns, catapult launching, shotguns, rifles and archery will be available for Scouts BSA and Venturers. Scouts BSA and Venturers will get to enjoy a wider variety of shooting at the rifle range.
Snacks and lunch will be available for an additional cost.
Please check the weather forecast for the day, and make sure each participant is prepared and dressed appropriately. This is a “rain or shine” event!
Note: Shooting activities require instruction and a safety briefing. Safety around firearms is a key lesson to learn in life. Snacks and lunch will be available for an additional cost.
As a thank you for attending the Shoot-o-Ree, we want to offer you and your family FREE tickets to the WWT Raceway at Gateway for the Indy Car Series and Bommarito Automotive Group 500 Races! Events are all afternoon/evening but the big races start at 4:30PM & 7PM. Perfect for after a fun day of shooting sports!
Full Racing Schedule here: https://www.wwtraceway.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/2019_INDYCAR_ScheduleJuly27.pdf
Register here for the WWT Racing Series on August 24th: https://scoutingevent.com/312-2019WWTRacingSeries
Zoom, zoom! See you on August 24th!
University of Scouting
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville – 2021 Date Coming Soon!
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible from the Scouts and Scouters we serve to the support staff, instructors, midway vendors and our professional partners.
It was another record breaking event. We look forward to seeing you again next year!
How Scouts Will Print Their Blue Cards
University of Scouting is a day-long event that offers the widest variety of training opportunities, in all program areas, all in one place! You will find just about anything to do with Scouting at University of Scouting whether you are a Scout, leader, commissioner, or parent! And be sure to visit the midway where local companies and organizations will be set up to show off their upcoming opportunities.
Questions Click Here or Contact Donna Baer at 314.256.3126
Here is just a sample of classes you will find at University of Scouting:
- Unit Commissioner Basic Training — This is your first step as a new unit commissioner. Learn the responsibilities of this position and how to accomplish those tasks.
- ECSI First Aid Training – Learn the basics of First Aid and CPR such as rescue breathing, soft tissue injuries and broken bones. Choose from the morning session or afternoon session.
- Hazardous Weather Training — This course teaches you how to manage weather in the outdoors. All Unit Leaders are required to complete this training every two years. Get caught up at UoS.
- Add “Sizzle” to Your Unit Program — If your troop is bored with the same program year after year, spice things up with these tips for incorporating new and exciting events and activities!
- BSA High Adventure – Philmont, Northern Tier and others. Learn about these great programs, registration procedures and preparation for participation, as well as other awesome high-adventure opportunities!
- Special Needs Overview — Every unit has at least one Scout with Special Needs, which includes autism, attention deficit disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, asthma, diabetes, hearing or visual impairment and many others. Learn about the tools available to you when dealing with these challenges.
Please note, digital blue cards will be available approximately 1 week after the event
ScoutFest 21
ScoutFest 21 is a once-a-decade, regional Scouting camporee organized by the Greater St. Louis Area Council. Expected attendance is 20,000 people across one weekend in Forest Park!
ScoutFest 21 is open to the whole family, including Cub Scouts, to camp overnight in St. Louis’s iconic park. Exciting program and activities are currently being developed by volunteers and youth, and will include live performances and fireworks on Art Hill, STEM and robotics, climbing walls, water sports, competitions, and much more!
To learn more click here.
Hiking Trails
The Greater St. Louis Area Council sponsors hiking trails throughout Missouri from a 4-mile trail over the rolling hills of Beaumont Scout Reservation to the rugged, two-day 20-mile hike across Taum Sauk Mountain in the Ozarks. There are also historic trails such as the Gateway West in downtown St. Louis and the Les Petites Cotes in St. Charles.
These hiking trails are maintained by the Council Hiking Committee, which is made up of dedicated trail coordinators. If you are interested in volunteering with this group, please contact Tracy Smithey, Hiking Committee chairman, at Tracy.Smithey@rd.nestle.com.
Check out the list below to find your unit’s next outdoor adventure!
HOW TO REGISTER FOR TRAIL HIKES
Applications to hike all trails must be filed at least two weeks in advance at the Camping Department, which will issue a permit.
- Cub Scouts may hike the Shippey Color Trails (2-9 miles) at Beaumont. There is a recognition patch.
- Webelos may hike these 10-mile hikes: Gateway West, 1904 World’s Fair and Les Petites Cotes.
- Any Scout may hike any trail except the School Craft, Daniel Boone, Taum Sauk and Lost Creek. Scouts hiking these four trails must have hiking experience.
All Boy Scouts, Explorers, Venturers and Scouters hiking trails should be in uniform. There must be two adult leaders for every 10 Scouts who hike, and one leader for each additional 10 Scouts. A fee of $3.00 per hiker covers cost of awards. This fee is payable after the trail has been hiked and should accompany the Trail Hike Report.
GSLAC TRAILS
Anpetu-We Trail
This is a 10-mile trail (5 miles up and 5 miles back) that winds up Mount Logan at Camp Lewallen. Anpetu-We Trail is a perfect backpack trail to get ready for Philmont because it offers a chance to do a hike with a dry campsite — meaning you have to carry your own water in. The one and only campsite is located near the top of Mount Logan. It is also possible to do this hike in one day.
John J. Audubon Trail
Located in the Mark Twain National Forest just west of Ste. Genevieve, this 12-mile trail is a wonderful trail hike to do as a one- or two-day trek. This trail is currently the only council-sponsored trail that has a GPS geo-cache located on a section of the trial (this would be a good trail to teach with GPS). Hikers will encounter approximately 3,000 vertical feet of ups and downs, so consider this terrain as rugged.
Daniel Boone Trail
This one-way 20-mile trail in St. Charles and Warren Counties follows the Katy Trail for 15 miles of its length. It starts in Defiance and takes scenic back roads to Matson, where it joins the Katy Trail. Augusta is a good halfway point. The Boone Trail leaves the Katy Trail a little past Dutzow to end at the Daniel Boone Monument. Troops can use the trail for the one-day, 20-mile requirement of Hiking Merit Badge, or they can bike the Katy Trail straight from Defiance to Dutzow and then the Boone Monument for the 15-mile requirement of Cycling Merit Badge.
Carondelet-Jefferson Barracks Trail
This 12-mile closed-loop city hike is located in the Carondelet-Jefferson Barracks area of south St. Louis and south St. Louis County. This trail covers many historic buildings and sites, along with two scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River. Bring a camera, as this trail can offer the Scout a chance to work on the Photography merit badge.
Carondelet-Jefferson Barracks Trail
Gateway West Historical Trail
This is a circular 10-mile city hike that begins and ends at Eads Bridge in downtown St. Louis. It is a question-and-answer trail over many of the historical sites in downtown and south St. Louis. Many of the historical sites also offer tours of their facilities, so plan ahead and visit some of these sites while you hike and learn about the city of St. Louis.
Gateway West Historical Trail Map
Green-Rock Trail
The hike starts at the Rockwood Range Tract, travels through the Greensfelder County Park, and finishes its one way 14-mile hike at Rockwoods Reservations where the museum and wildlife displays are available for nature and wildlife education. This trail can also be hiked backwards to complete the trail as a 20-mile hike and fulfill one of the requirements for the Hiking merit badge. This trail is 99 percent in the woods, and it is also a perfect opportunity to work on individual advancement with the use of map and compass.
Henry School Craft Trail
This map and compass trail can be divided into north and south loops located in the Mark Twain National Forest southwest of Potosi, Mo. The south loop is approximately 9 miles long, while the north loop is approximately 5 miles. Many hiking options are available, such as individual day hikes of the two loops, combinations of the two loops and backpacking. This trail also can be used with GPS navigation equipment.
Henry Rowe Schoolcraft Trail Map
Les Petites Cotes Trail
A circular 10-mile urban hike located in historic St. Charles, the first capitol of Missouri. This is a question-and-answer trail over many of the historical sites in downtown St. Charles. Many of the historical sites offer tours of their facilities, so plan ahead and visit some of these sites while you hike and learn about the city of St. Charles.
Lost Creek Trail
This is a 20-mile circular hiking and bicycling trail located in Warren County, Mo. The entire trail is over county and state roads. The trail starts in Pendleton. The trail can be used to cover some of the requirements for the Hiking and Cycling merit badges.
Moses Austin Trail
The 14.5-mile wilderness trail is in a rugged section of the Clark National Forest in Washington County, northwest of Potosi, Mo. This is a wonderful trail to work on the Backpacking merit badge.
Pioneer Trace
This rugged 17-mile circular trail around the perimeter of the Beaumont Scout Reservation is ideal for overnight backpacking programs. Groups planning high-adventure treks will find the trail to be a challenging shake down. It is a great trail to work on the Backpacking merit badge.
Shawnee Trail
The Shawnee Trail, named after one of the Greater St. Louis Area Council’s Order of the Arrow lodges, was developed to be a 20-mile hiking trail in the woods at Beaumont Scout Reservation. The trail follows a number of the other hiking trails located at Beaumont. It is all 10 percent or less in slope.
Shippey Color Trail System
There are four different short trails at Beaumont Scout Reservation. The Red Trail is 5.2 miles long, the Green Trail is 4.4 miles long, the Yellow Trail is 2.5 miles long and the Blue Trail is 9 miles long. Each color trail goes into a different part of Beaumont and offers a different view of what Beaumont has to offer.
Taum Sauk Trail
The Taum Sauk Trail is now part of the Ozark Trail. Please go to www.ozarktrail.com to get map and information about hiking the Taum Sauk Trail portion of the Ozark Trail. Scout camping is available at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
The Taum Sauk Trail was made possible through the efforts of the late J.L. “Pop” Connelly, and was formally dedicated on April 12, 1958. Many scouts and scouters have been able to experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks thanks to his efforts. Below is a link to a news article detailing some of the history of the trail and the dedication of a memorial to “Pop” Connelly. Also listed is a program from the trail dedication in 1958.
Mountain Echo
Taum Sauk Trail Dedication Program
Three Notch Trail
This trail is a 21-mile, two 10-mile loops joined by a 1-mile connector, at the S bar F Scout Ranch. You will hike through many of the wilderness areas not normally seen by Scouts at summer camp. The hike can be done in separate loops and it is great for backpacking with the West Loop rated at moderate and the East Loop rated difficult.
Three Notch Trail Map
Three Notch Preparation
Tomahawk Trail
The 12-mile circular forest trail lies entirely within Beaumont Scout Reservation. Much of this trail follows scenic ridge tops and up or down at 10 percent or less grade in most places. This trail qualifies as one of the five 10-mile trails required for the Hiking merit badge. There are several places to camp on the trail, which makes this a great backpacking hike also.
1904 World’s Fair Trail
This 10-mile trail goes all around Forest Park and part of the Washington University campus. This trail helps tell the story of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition held in St. Louis in 1904. There are many places to visit in addition to hiking the trail, such as the St. Louis Zoo, History Museum, Art Museum and the World’s Fair Pavilion.
Scouting For Food
2020 Unit Leader GuideGenerously supported by:
On Saturday, Nov. 14, thousands of Scouts will deliver more than 1 million blue Scouting for Food bags throughout the St. Louis metro area, southeast Missouri, and southern Illinois. They will return one week later on Nov. 21 to collect the bags full of donated canned goods.
By giving to Scouting For Food, residents are helping those in need right in their own community. With the help of Sunset Transportation, food donations in the St. Louis area are delivered to the St. Louis Area Foodbank for further distribution to over 500 hunger-relief programs and local agencies in the bi-state area. In southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, Scouts take donations directly to local food pantries.
When it comes to donations, canned fruits, vegetables, soups, tuna, chicken, and pasta sauce, and meals in a box, such as hamburger helper, are most needed. Last year, Scouting for Food gathered 1.9 million items of food which provided more than 1 million meals for the needy.
Residents who do not receive a bag can take canned food donations to any Goodwill store location Nov. 22-28.
Virtual Option:
- Spread the word! To donate virtually, text “SCOUTFOOD” to 91999 – all monetary donations will be donated to the St. Louis Foodbank and Operation Food Search. A $1 donation = 4 meals!
2020 Scouting for Food Patch Orders! Get yours before they are gone!
To order visit: Link Coming Soon
Scouting for Food Collection Sites
Background
It takes a great deal of community support, planning, cooperation, dedication and volunteers to make Scouting for Food the largest single-day community food drive in the Boy Scouts of America. Started in 1985 by the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Scouting for Food has expanded to other councils across the country.
More than 30,000 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venture Scouts annually help the needy as they collect approximately 2 million cans of food during the Scouting for Food drive. The Greater St. Louis Area Council has collected more than 55 million cans of food during the 34-year history of the drive.
Items collected serve approximately 500 pantries within the Greater St. Louis Area Council, which includes the St. Louis metropolitan area, southeastern Missouri, and southern Illinois.
Scouts in the St. Louis area take donations to fire stations where it is sorted and boxed. Sunset Transportation Inc. of Sunset Hills provides trucks, equipment and volunteer drivers. It also coordinates all logistics for the food collection, which involves transporting boxed food from more than 35 area fire stations to the St. Louis Area Foodbank & Operation Food Search. The Foodbank & Operation Food Search distributes the canned goods through a network of more than 700 area food pantries and organizations.
What kind of food donations are needed? Read our suggestions on the “Perfect Bag.”
Fall 2020 Outdoor Experience
In this training, you will learn:
- To give aid in constructing a well-rounded program for the youth both indoors and outdoors.
- To be prepared to take your dens and packs outdoors and not be terrified of the unknown.
- To become familiar with techniques for teaching youth about fire building, hiking, nature and many more fun activities.
- To work with other leaders and share ideas with them. The leaders are placed in dens which are comprised of leaders from all districts and packs throughout the council. Each den will also have a den counselor to share ideas and answer questions while guiding you through the program.
Learn More by clicking here.
STEM
The BSA’s STEM initiative gives Scouts an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics related concepts and learn how STEM knowledge is used in everyday life and in the professional world. The aim is to expose youth to new opportunities and help build interest in the STEM-related careers that are so crucial to our future economy.
Learn More by clicking here.
Duty To God
Every Scout has the opportunity to earn their faith’s religious emblem which can be worn on their uniform as a youth or an adult. Religious emblems will fulfill Duty to God adventure requirements for Cub Scouts, Scout Spirit requirements for Scouts BSA and TRUST award for Venturing.
Learn More by clicking here.
Map & Compass
Map & Compass training is for leaders 18 years and older. This training prepares leaders to take their troops through the map and compass program at Beaumont Scout Reservation. The program is a progressive learning experience incorporating games, fun, map reading and compass skills. The day will culminate by using the skills on an orienteering course.
Learn More by clicking here.
Substance Abuse Initiative
Become a facilitator for the GSLAC Substance Abuse Awareness program developed by SIUE’s School of Pharmacy Take the train the trainer survey and class to help educate our youth about the dangers of Substance Abuse!
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Community Events
Barnes-Jewish Hospital: Attend a free class called “Stop the Bleed.” This one-hour class is designed to teach non-medical people how to control emergency bleeding. The program goes over how to apply pressure to bleeding wounds, how to do emergency packing, and how to apply a tourniquet. If interested in taking the class, contact Billy Kollmar at william.kollmar@bjc.org.
Farmers & Merchants Bank (Eureka, MO): Sign your Pack up for an interactive and age-appropriate lesson on Financial Responsibility or make plans to take a field trip. Farmers & Merchants Bank offers Packs a tour of the teller line, vault, and the different tools used at the bank. Call 636-938-7878 for more details.
Federal Aviation Administration: The FAA encourages Scouts and their families who may travel by aircraft not to pack hazardous materials in their checked and/or carry-on luggage. View their brochure or visit faa.gov/Go/PackSafe for helpful resources to share with your units.
Gateway Arch: NPS Rangers facilitate audience-centered programs that feature role playing, decision making, multiple perspectives, analytical thinking and many hands-on activities. Programs are hosted at the Old Courthouse or the new Museum at the Gateway Arch. They are presented year-round, free of charge.
- Lewis and Clark: Explore the cultures, landscapes and animals encountered by the Corps of Discovery as they traveled and mapped the newly purchase Louisiana Territory.
- Trappers and Traders: Bold and audacious, join these adventurers as they learn about the resources of unknown territories, barter and live among American Indians, and contribute to the economy of the American frontier.
- American Indians of the Great Plains: Compare and contrast your life with that of traditional Plains Indians tribes during the 1800s. Learn how the land shaped their traditional tribal customs and how westward expansion changed their way of life.
- Heading West? Supply yourself in St. Louis before heading west. Confront some of the same choices early pioneers did while traveling west across prairies, rivers and mountains to Oregon and California.
- St. Louis: How It All Began: In 1764 French fur traders founded St. Louis at what is now the base of the Gateway Arch. Explore how this small yet diverse settlement grew into a thriving river town.
- General Museum Tour: Meet the people and hear the stories of those who lived, settled and worked in the early 18th- and 19th-century “west.” The program will include information and activities related to Lewis and Clark, the fur trade, Plains Indians and pioneers on the trail.
- Mock Trials: Ranger-led mock trials give students the opportunity to read scripts, argue facts and decide a verdict as they re-enact one of several historic trials that took place at the Old Courthouse including Dred Scott and Virginia Minor cases, and Williams v. Bellefontaine.
Reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance. Maximum group size is 30 youth (one adult for every 10 youth). Please allow 50 minutes for each program.
To make a reservation, visit www.nps.gov/jeff or www.gatewayarch.com, or call 877-982-1410.
Missouri Botanical Garden: visit mobot.org/scouts for details.
- Meet Me Outdoors in St. Louis Festival, April 6-7
- Scout Night at Missouri Botanical Gardens, April 12 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
River Radio (Cape Girardeau): River Radio in Cape Girardeau (324 Broadway) offers free tours of its radio station to Scout groups. Scouts get an up close and personal view of radio broadcasting and learn how radio stations operate. To schedule your Scout group, contact Kirby Ray at kirbyq@riverradio.net or 1-800-289-5103 ext. 577.
Shaw Nature Reserve: Cub Scouts, enjoy a weekend at Shaw Nature Reserve! Enjoy a variety of activities including water ecology, night hikes, themed crafts, star gazing, and a campfire with s’mores and plenty of hot chocolate! Accommodations provided in the Dana Brown Overnight Center’s delightful historic cabins and new shower facilities.
- Scout Day at Shaw Nature Reserve, May 18 from 8 a.m.-noon
St. Louis Astronomical Society: The SLAS Library Telescope Program seeks to foster scientific literacy, stimulate an interest in astronomy, and provide people who have never looked through a telescope the chance to experience the excitement that comes from discovery. If you are interested in gaining an introduction to astronomy or would like to help SLAS with its new Library Telescope Program, email librarytelescope@slasonline.org. View the Library Telescope Locations.
St. Louis Blues Hockey: Scouts can take advantage of discounted tickets for the game on March 21. Visit nhl.com/blues/tickets/scout-offers for tickets. Use promo code BSCOUT at checkout.
Saint Louis Chess Club is hosting a Scouts BSA chess merit badge event just for girls! The free workshop is Feb. 3 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Click here for more details and to register.
SIUe Basketball Game/Sleepover: Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts are invited to attend the SIUe basketball game on Jan. 19 and then stay for a sleepover in the arena. Your $15 ticket includes admission to the game, movie, popcorn and breakfast the next day. For more info or to reserve tickets, contact Paul Dodson at 618-650-3695 or pdodson@siue.edu.
Tower Grove Park: Tower Grove Park has free birding kits available! Kits are geared towards students in grades 4-8 and each kit includes binoculars and flash cards. View the flyer or contact Tricia Scalise at tscalise@towergrovepark.org.