Troop 233 Five Miler
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Here are the two maps for the five-mile hike at Almaden Quicksilver County Park:
Start
Finish
The first map is just under four miles. It starts at the picnic table near the portable toilet just inside the McAbee entrance to the park. It ends at a picnic table next to the creek below the reservoir. This is a great place to stop for a rest/snack break.
The second map is about 1 1/4 miles. It continues from the picnic table and retraces the first part of the hike to end near the portable toilet.
There are two maps to make it easier to follow the route. Counting the start and the snack break, there are seven opportunities for the Scouts to orient their maps and determine which way to go. If you want to spend some time comparing the terrain to the topo symbols, the junction just above the reservoir might be an excellent spot.
Since the poison oak is plentiful at this park, the hike might also be a good opportunity for the Scouts to identify poisonous plants (another advancement requirement).
Please remind the participating Scouts to bring their ten essentials, including plenty of water. There is no potable water on the trail, and the only toilet is at the trail head.
Enjoy!
Dirk Leatherman, ASM
adventure@troop233.com