Mountain Lion Adventure: Cub Scout Helps and Documents

This information is for the Cub Scout program before the June 1, 2024 updates. After June 2024, all Cub Scouts should use the updated program requirements. See here.

The Cub Scout Mountain Lion adventure is not just an optional outing; it’s one of the required adventures for earning the Lion badge. This places it at the core of the Lion Cub Scout experience. Meeting this requirement is essential for progressing in the scouting program, making it a pivotal part of a young Scout’s journey.

As a required adventure, its elements of outdoor safety, preparation, and respect for nature take on additional significance. Scouts learn these key skills not just for immediate use but as building blocks for future scouting activities. This sets the stage for a well-rounded, safety-conscious approach to the outdoors.

Scouts learn about the importance of packing the right outdoor items and how to use them effectively. The emphasis on preparedness ensures that they’re not just going through the motions but are genuinely equipped for the challenges ahead.

The buddy system and the SAW (Stay, Answer, Whistle) technique are other crucial components. They provide layers of security and safety that become second nature to Scouts as they progress in their journey. The buddy system, in particular, fosters teamwork and responsibility, two key traits scouts carry into adulthood.

Teaching respect for animals and nature rounds out this adventure. Scouts learn how their actions can impact the environment and wildlife, setting the stage for responsible outdoor behavior throughout their lives. Overall, completing the Mountain Lion adventure is a significant milestone, providing practical knowledge and life skills in a focused, hands-on setting.

1. Gather the outdoor items you need to have with you when you go on an outdoor adventure, and understand how they are used. Also understand and commit to practicing the buddy system.
2. Learn what SAW (Stay, Answer, Whistle) means. Demonstrate what you can do to stay safe if you become separated from the group when you are outdoors.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of respect for animals and nature when participating in a learning hike.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the Mountain Lion requirements (page 1) and a check off sheet (page 2) to keep track of your den’s progress.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 1 of the Mountain Lion Adventure

For Mountain Lion requirement 1, the focus is twofold: preparing your outdoor gear and committing to the buddy system.

Your Outdoor Gear

Here’s some things you might want to take with you:

1. First Aid Kit: For treating minor injuries.
2. Map and compass: To help you navigate the area.
3. Water Bottle: To stay hydrated during the adventure. Don’t forget to fill it!
4. Non-perishable Snacks: For energy, think granola bars or trail mix.
5. Sunscreen: To protect against sunburn.
6. Insect Repellent: To keep bugs at bay.
7. Hat: Provides additional sun protection and helps manage body temperature.
8. Flashlight: Useful for low-light situations, don’t forget extra batteries.
9. Whistle: For signaling in case you get separated from the group.
10. Light Rain Gear: A lightweight poncho or raincoat for unexpected showers.

This list covers the basic essentials for a day adventure, giving you and your buddy a foundation of safety and preparedness. Make sure to customize the list based on the specific outing and weather conditions. Learn more about outdoor essentials.

The Buddy System

The buddy system is a fundamental safety practice in scouting and outdoor activities. Here are some tips to make the most of it:

1. Choose Wisely: Pick a buddy you’re comfortable with and can communicate easily with. It’s essential for both of you to be on the same page.
2. Stay Close: Always maintain visual or vocal contact with your buddy. If you can’t see or hear them, you’re too far apart.
3. Shared Knowledge: Make sure both buddies know essential details like the day’s itinerary, key contact numbers, and locations of emergency supplies.
4. Check-In Routine: Establish a regular check-in process to confirm both are OK. This can be as simple as a thumbs-up signal every few minutes.
5. Mutual Aid: Be aware of each other’s needs. If you think your buddy is in trouble, alert a nearby adult.

By applying these tips, you make the buddy system more effective, adding a layer of safety and teamwork to any outdoor activity. It’s straightforward but crucial for keeping everyone accounted for and secure.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 2 of the Mountain Lion Adventure

SAW stands for Stay, Answer, Whistle, and it’s a simple yet effective mnemonic to help Lion Cub Scouts remember what to do if they get separated from their group during an outdoor activity. Let’s break down what each component means.

1. Stay: The first rule is to stay put. When you realize you’re separated, your instinct might be to move around and look for the group, but that usually makes it harder for others to find you. By staying in one spot, you become more easily locatable.
2. Answer: The second part is to answer any calls or shouts from your group or rescuers. Your voice can carry quite far in open spaces, and even farther in quiet forests. Regularly call out so people know where you are.
3. Whistle: Finally, use a whistle to make noise if you have one. Whistles are especially effective because the sound carries much farther than the human voice and requires less energy to use. It’s a useful signaling tool for drawing attention to your location.

The SAW technique is basic, but it addresses a stressful situation with straightforward actions. By keeping these three steps in mind, young Scouts are better prepared to handle an unexpected separation from their group. It’s a small bit of knowledge that provides a significant safety net during outdoor adventures.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 3 of the Mountain Lion Adventure

For Mountain Lion requirement 3, demonstrating respect for animals and nature is the primary focus. Here are some tips on how to achieve that during a learning hike:

1. Leave No Trace: The most basic rule of outdoor ethics. Pick up after yourself and leave the area as you found it. This means packing out all trash and not disturbing natural formations.
2. Observe, Don’t Interact: If you encounter wildlife, maintain a safe distance. The aim is to observe animals in their natural habitat without altering their behavior or stressing them.
3. Keep Noise Down: Excessive noise can disturb wildlife and other hikers. Keep conversations at a low volume and avoid loud actions like shouting or playing music on speakers.
4. Stick to Trails: Always stay on marked paths. Wandering off-trail can lead to trampling of vegetation and potential disruption of animal homes.
5. Don’t Feed Animals: It may be tempting to feed a cute squirrel or bird, but human food isn’t good for them and it encourages them to become dependent on humans for food.
6. Learn Before You Go: Take some time to understand the ecosystem you’ll be hiking in. Knowing which plants are indigenous and which animals you might encounter makes the hike more educational and helps you appreciate the environment.

By adhering to these guidelines, Lion Cub Scouts can fulfill requirement 3 and gain a lasting appreciation for nature. These tips also instill responsible behaviors that will serve them well in all future outdoor activities.

Leave No Trace Frontcountry Guidelines

The Mountain Lion adventure teaches Lion Cub Scouts fundamental outdoor skills, with a strong emphasis on safety and respect for nature. It aligns well with the Leave No Trace frontcountry guidelines, which advocate minimizing your impact on the environment. The adventure reinforces the Leave No Trace principles like “Pack it in, Pack it out” and “Leave What You Find.” Overall, the adventure serves as an introductory course in responsible outdoor behavior, laying the groundwork for future scouting activities.

The Outdoor Code

The Mountain Lion adventure serves as a foundational experience for Lion Cub Scouts, introducing them to essential outdoor skills and safety practices. It harmonizes well with the Scout’s Outdoor Code, which emphasizes being clean in outdoor manners, careful with fire, considerate in the outdoors, and conservation-minded. Through activities like learning the buddy system, understanding what to do if separated, and practicing respect for nature, scouts embody the principles of the Outdoor Code. This adventure sets the stage for a lifetime of responsible and respectful interaction with the outdoors, aligning with the code’s broader mission to instill ethical outdoor conduct.

BSA Video Resource

Hiking Cub Scout Theme

The hiking component of the Mountain Lion adventure offers a great opportunity to make Scouting truly an “outing.” Choosing a theme can inject an element of fun and focus for the Cub Scouts. It’s essential to pick a trail suitable for this young age group, keeping safety and manageability in mind. Scouts often aim to reach the destination quickly, overlooking the journey. To counter this, consider incorporating additional hiking activities. For example, add a nature scavenger hunt or observation points along the trail. These extra activities encourage Scouts to slow down and engage with their surroundings, enhancing the overall hiking experience.

Hiking Safety

Before hitting the trails with Cub Scouts, preparation and safety guidelines are paramount. Since front country hikes in park-like settings are the go-to for Cub Scouts, the focus is on basic safety. Ensure everyone has a trail map and stick to the chosen route. Hydration is key, so bring ample water. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Carry a first aid kit and a whistle for emergencies. Follow Leave No Trace principles to respect nature. Always hike as a group, let the slowest scout lead, and take breaks as needed. If anyone gets lost, the rule is to stay put for easier location. These steps set the stage for a safe and enjoyable outing.

What is the Mountain Lion adventure?

The Mountain Lion adventure is one of the required adventures for earning the Lion badge in Cub Scouts. It focuses on introducing young Scouts to basic outdoor skills and safety practices.

Who is the Mountain Lion adventure for?

The Mountain Lion adventure is aimed at Lion Cub Scouts, who are generally in Kindergarten and are at least 5 years old.

What are the main components of the Mountain Lion adventure?

The main activities revolve around gathering essential outdoor items, practicing the buddy system, understanding how to stay safe if separated from the group, and learning respect for animals and nature.

Is there a specific place the Mountain Lion adventure must be done?

No, the adventure can be done in various outdoor settings. Use front country environments like parks for safety reasons.

What are the Leave No Trace guidelines in the context of the Mountain Lion adventure?

Leave No Trace principles encourage Scouts to minimize their impact on nature by packing out trash, staying on trails, and not disturbing wildlife.

Is it necessary to have a hike as part of the Mountain Lion adventure?

Yes, one of the adventure requirements involves going on a learning hike, where Scouts can practice the skills they’ve acquired.

Can parents or guardians participate in the Mountain Lion adventure?

Absolutely. Lions should be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult. However, the focus is on enabling Scouts to perform tasks themselves under adult supervision.

What if a Scout has special needs or limitations which make it difficult to complete the Mountain Lion adventure?

Modifications can be made to the requirements to accommodate Scouts with special needs, as long as the fundamental objectives are met. Contact your local council for details and approval.

Is prior outdoor experience needed for the Mountain Lion adventure?

No, the Mountain Lion adventure is designed as an introductory experience and doesn’t require any prior outdoor skills.