Backpacking

Backpacking
Girl Scout backpacking groups have monthly weekend trips from October to April and sometimes organize a summer trip. Backpacking groups are a great way for new backpackers to gain skills by learning from experienced backpackers, and it’s an excellent way for both experienced and novice backpackers to meet people who share the same interests and love for the outdoors. Don’t have all the necessary backpack equipment for group weekend trips? No worries. Arrangements can be made to rent equipment at the Girl Scout Center through a backpacking group coordinator. Don’t worry if you might be the only girl in your troop or a Juliette who might be interested in backpacking. You won’t be the only one! Sign up for an orientation and join the fun! For more backpacking information contact at Julie Deeter 713-292-0203 or jdeeter@sjgs.org.

Backpacking orientation
(Age 13 – adult)

Girls and adults will master the basics of backpacking in this orientation. The course covers equipment needed, what to bring, how to pack, how to cook on the trail, and backpack and tent usage. Participants will learn to: gather information to prepare for the trip, pitch a tent, tie a sleeping bag to a backpack, and cook on a sterno stove. Each participant will pack their own backpack and go on a short hike, then pitch their Council tent for spending the night under the stars. This course prepares girls to backpack with a Council group or with a troop. Adults must complete the Adult Backpack Training course to be certified to take girls backpacking outside of a Council-sponsored backpack group. The fee covers equipment rental (both backpack and tent), backpack manual, and nylon rope. A packing list and more information will be sent with your confirmation.

Date: September 25-26, October 30-31
Time: Saturday 9:30 a.m. – Sunday noon
Place: Camp Camwood, Hockley
Fee: $10, due two weeks prior to event
Event Code: 10-56-05-6240
Register: Use Program Registration Form

Adult Backpack Training
This course is designed to qualify adults to take girls backpacking. Adults must also complete Standard Troop Camping training before taking this training. The course will explain Girl Scout procedures on taking girls on backpacking trips and include information on backpacks, tents, trails (including the best trails available in the Houston area), forms, orienteering, first aid, and equipment. Training will be held at the same time as the Backpacking Orientation for girls. A packing list and more information will be sent with your confirmation.

Date: September 25-26, October 30-31
Time: Saturday 9:30 a.m. – Sunday noon
Place: Camp Camwood, Hockley
Fee: $10, due two weeks prior to training
Event Code: 10-56-05-6245
Register: Use Program Registration Form

Sports

Minute Maid Park Tours
Girl Scout troops and their families can take a private tour of Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. There MUST be at least 1 adult for every 10 girls. The tour involves walking one mile and may include stairs and ramps. Tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Girl Scouts must bring permission slip and medical form.

Educational tours can include:
· Time in the Learning Center playing interactive games and researching the history of Major League Baseball.
· Tour the historic Union Station, broadcasting booths, press boxes, or luxury suites, and dugouts.
· Research the history and try on team uniforms and playing equipment.
· View how professionals manufacture balls and bats.

Who: Girl Scouts and their families
Where: Union Station, 501 Crawford
Time: Arrive by 10:40 a.m., tour begins at 11 a.m.
When: Aug. 28, Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 27
Event Code: 10-56-08-6245;
Min./Max: 25/100
Cost: $4 girl/$8 adult
Deadline: Two weeks prior to the event
Register: Program Registration Form
Details: Contact Nicole McInnes at 713-292-0353,
or nmcinnes@sjgs.org

Indoor Rock Climbing

Girls, leaders, and parents can come “hang-out” and maneuver around the 10,000 square feet of climbing walls, arches, and boulders in a fun, professional, and safe atmosphere. Harnesses will be provided.
Adults attending will be expected to belay participants. Instructors are not provided for climbing. Participants will receive all belaying and climbing instructions at time of arrival. Suggested ratio is 1 adult per 4 girls. For details contact Nicole McInnes at 713-292-0353 or nmcinnes@sjgs.org.

Who: Girls, ages 7 and up, and adults
Where: Texas Rock Gym Memorial, 9716 Old Katy Road, Suite 102
When: Saturday, August 21, September 25, October 30, and November 27; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Cost: $12.50 per climber (No charge for belayers)
Min/Max: 21 climbers/60 climbers; Event Code: 10-56-08-6245
Register: Program Registration Form; list names of girls climbing and adults attending.
Deadline: Two weeks prior to event date
Bring: Pack a lunch and enjoy the party room (optional activity). All participants must wear tennis or indoor climbing shoes. Bring Girl Scout permission slip. Texas Rock Gym forms will be mailed upon confirmation of the session. Bring the completed forms to the event.