C&O Canal Backpacking
Although we were forced to cut our planned 2-night backpacking trip short by one night because of the prediction for hazardous weather, it was nonetheless a great outing! We departed from the church around 10am on Thursday. Once we arrived at White's Ferry, it took some time to get organized, mainly because the restrooms were locked. Apparently the folks who maintain the restrooms were on spring break! Around noon, we were able to begin our hike. We had five miles on the schedule for the first day, along a surprisingly well-maintained section of the C&O Canal Towpath. The weather was beautiful, and we enjoyed lovely expanses of wildflowers. Georgia did an exceptional job of keeping everyone going with her positive encouragement. Scouts also worked on their map and compass skills along the way. We arrived at the Chisel Branch campsite around 4:00, so there was still plenty of time left in the day to set up camp. The Scouts relaxed on a downed tree by the river,