High Knoll is the Blue Ridge Scout Reservation’s high adventure backpacking program. With over a hundred miles of trails and a variety of outpost activities, every day on High Knoll Trail Camp is a new adventure.  Assistant Scoutmaster Henry says it is very similar to his scouting days at Philmont, but without the heat, crowded base camp, and long travel.

There are a lot of trails within Camp Ottari for their adventures! Here are some journal entries from our own troop's High Knoll trek several years ago.

Monday,- There is solid proof of their hiking abilities as they made it the Greenwood Trial.  Caption:  "Don't complain!  Hike in the rain!" 

Tuesday -  "We did Huff Farm Yesterday and the boys got to ride (horses)  a little bit.  They are mountain boarding today/" (A Blue Ridge tradition with an all-terrain skateboard and braking system) We heard of another troop who's food was taken by a bear when they didn't secure it properly overnight!

Wednesday - Occassionally, the Base Camp Leaders will receive a text message from Hike Knoll leaders.  So far,  they assisted in the loading of an adult from another troop to be evacuated after he was kicked in the face by a horse.  They were to be black-powder rifle shooting today and still had paintball shooting to visit.  It is hoped they will be rock climbing on Friday.  

Thursday - reprovisioning for the last 2 days of backwoods hiking, including Friday's final long-day of 18 miles. 

Friday - yes, the long-day hike! Finish up before dinner back at Ottari for the closing campfire with the rest of our Troop. Showers! Sweet, sweet showers!!

See more about High Knoll at the Council's website.