Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure for 2024

This for the 2024 program year Cub Scout updates. This is a preview and is not official information yet. This new program takes effect on June 1, 2024. See more details about the overall program updates here.

The Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure helps Scouts learn how technology can be useful when exploring the outdoors. This adventure is part of the Cub Scouts program and focuses on using modern tools like GPS devices. Scouts get to see firsthand how technology can help them stay safe and find their way.

Through the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure, Webelos work on practical skills by planning and taking part in a trek. They use online maps and GPS to prepare for their journey. This is a great way for Scouts to apply what they learn in a real-world setting. It makes the learning process active and fun.

The skills learned in the Tech on the Trail Adventure are not just for Scouting. They are useful in everyday life. Understanding how to use technology for planning and navigation can help in many situations outside of Scouting.

Overall, this adventure encourages curiosity and problem-solving. Webelos come away with a better understanding of how technology fits into the world around them. They also gain confidence from achieving their goals through planning and teamwork. This is what makes the Tech on the Trail Adventure a valuable part of the Webelos journey.

Tech on the Trail Adventure Requirements

1. Discuss how technology can help keep you safe in the outdoors. 
2. Explore Global Positioning Satellite and how to use it. 
3. With an adult, choose an online mapping program tool and plan a 2-mile trek. 
4. Take your 2-mile trek.

Printable requirements for the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure

Check off sheet to keep track of your den’s progress on the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure

Webelos Adventures Check Off Sheet

Outdoor Safety

For Requirement 1 of the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure, Scouts discuss how technology can keep them safe outdoors. This is important because being safe is a big part of having fun outside. Some ideas:

• Emergency Communication: Devices like cell phones and walkie-talkies let Scouts call for help if they need it. This is very useful if someone gets hurt or if the group gets lost.
• Weather Apps: These apps tell you the weather forecast. Knowing if it will rain, be very hot, or very cold helps Scouts prepare and stay safe.
• GPS Devices: GPS can show where you are and help you find your way. This is helpful if you’re hiking in a new place and want to make sure you don’t get lost.
• Safety Apps: Some apps are made to help in emergencies. They can send your location to rescue teams or show you what to do if someone is hurt.

Discussing these tools helps Scouts understand that technology is not just for fun or staying in touch with friends. It can also be a key tool for staying safe while exploring the outdoors.

GPS Devices

For Requirement 2 of the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure, Scouts explore how to use Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) devices. GPS devices help you know your location anywhere on Earth using satellites in space. Most modern cell phones have GPS capability.

Here are some activities to help Scouts learn about GPS devices:

• GPS Treasure Hunt: Create a treasure hunt where Scouts use GPS devices to find hidden items. You can hide objects around a park and give coordinates for each location. This makes learning fun and interactive.
• Map Your Route: Have Scouts plan a route for a short hike using a GPS device. They can mark points of interest, like a big tree or a stream, and follow the route they mapped.
• Compare and Contrast: Let Scouts use a traditional map and a GPS device on the same route. This helps them see how the two methods compare and why GPS can be more helpful in certain situations.
• GPS Drawing: Scouts can create shapes or letters on a map by walking in patterns that outline these shapes. They track their movement on a GPS app. This can be a fun way for them to see how GPS tracks movement over distance.

These activities teach Scouts not only how to use GPS devices but also the value of navigation skills. They learn to be more confident and safe while exploring new areas.

Plan a Trek

For Requirement 3 of the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure, Scouts work with an adult to use an online mapping tool to plan a 2-mile trek. This helps Scouts learn how to use technology for planning and navigation.

1. Choose a Mapping Tool: Start by selecting an online mapping program. Google Maps is a popular choice because it’s easy to use and free. There are also other apps specifically for hiking and outdoor activities.
2. Plan the Route: With the chosen tool, look for a safe and interesting route that is about 2 miles long. This could be in a local park, along a nature trail, or through a community area. Make sure the path is suitable for young Scouts and check if there are rest areas or interesting spots to observe wildlife or plants.
3. Check Details: Look at the terrain on the map to make sure it’s not too difficult for the Scouts. Also, check the weather for the day of the trek to prepare for any conditions.
4. Safety Precautions: Teach the Scouts to think about safety while planning. They should consider what to do if someone gets tired or if the weather changes. Planning for breaks and having a first aid kit are good ideas.
5. Discuss the Plan: Once the trek is planned, discuss the route with the Scouts. Talk about the distance, the terrain, and what they might see along the way. This helps them know what to expect and gets them excited about the adventure.

By completing this requirement, Scouts learn how to use modern tools to plan safe and enjoyable activities outdoors. It’s a great way to combine technology with nature exploration.

Go for a Walk

For Requirement 4 of the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure, Scouts actually go on the 2-mile trek they planned using an online mapping tool. This is a chance for them to apply what they’ve learned about navigation and safety in a real setting.

Here are some tips to help make the trek successful and enjoyable:

• Prepare: Before heading out, make sure everyone knows what to expect. Review the route and discuss the landmarks or checkpoints you’ll see along the way. Check the weather again and make sure everyone is dressed appropriately.
• Pack Essentials: Each Scout should carry a small backpack with water, snacks, a first aid kit, and any necessary weather gear like a raincoat or sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to have a physical map or a printout of the trek route, just in case.
• Safety First: Remind Scouts about staying together and following the buddy system. An adult should be with the front of the group and another should follow at the back, ensuring all Scouts are within sight.
• Use Technology: During the trek, use the GPS device to track your location. This will help Scouts see how the device works in real time and understand how it guides them along the planned path.
• Take Breaks: Plan for a few short breaks to rest, hydrate, and maybe discuss what you’ve seen or learned so far. This keeps everyone energized and engaged.
• Reflect on the Experience: After the trek, talk about the experience. Ask the Scouts what they liked, what was challenging, and how they used technology during the hike. This reflection helps them appreciate what they learned and how they can use these skills in the future.

By doing this trek, Scouts not only practice outdoor skills but also learn how to safely enjoy activities using technology. It’s a great way for them to see how planning and preparation lead to a successful adventure.

What is a GPS device?

A GPS device uses satellites to show your location on Earth. It helps you find your way when you are outside.

Do we need a physical map if we use GPS?

Yes, it’s good to have a physical map too. Sometimes technology can fail, like if the battery dies, so a map is a good backup.

What should we bring on our 2-mile trek for the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure?

Bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Also, carry the map and GPS device you used for planning.

Can we use a smartphone as a GPS device for the Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure?

Yes, smartphones have GPS functions and can use apps for mapping and hiking. Make sure your phone is fully charged.

What if it rains on the day of our trek?

Check the weather before you go. If light rain is forecasted, wear waterproof gear. If the weather looks bad, it’s safer to reschedule.

How do we make sure everyone stays safe during the trek?

Stay together, use the buddy system, and follow the trail you planned. Make sure an adult is leading and another is at the back of the group.

What do we do if we get lost?

Stay where you are and use your GPS device or phone to find your location. Call for help if needed and wait for assistance.

The Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure is an exciting part of the Cub Scouts program that teaches Scouts how to use technology safely and effectively outdoors. This adventure emphasizes the practical use of GPS devices and online mapping tools to plan and navigate a trek. Through this adventure, Scouts learn how technology can enhance safety and make exploring the natural world even more engaging.

In the first part of the adventure, Scouts discuss how various technologies can help them stay safe while outside. They look at tools like GPS devices, weather apps, and emergency communication devices. This builds a foundation of understanding about the importance of tech in safety.

Next, Scouts get hands-on experience with GPS technology by exploring how these devices function and practicing navigation skills. They engage in activities such as treasure hunts or mapping exercises, which make the learning process fun and interactive.

The adventure progresses with Scouts planning a 2-mile trek using an online mapping tool. This activity helps them apply their knowledge of technology to a real-world scenario, emphasizing planning and preparation. Finally, they take the trek they planned, using the GPS to guide them. This gives them practical experience and confidence in their navigation skills.

The Webelos Tech on the Trail Adventure combines technology with traditional scouting experiences, teaching valuable life skills and promoting teamwork and problem-solving in a fun and educational way.