In 2005, Jarrett Moore of troop 371 designed and installed a 1.2 mile trail at the Forest Ecology Preserve for his Eagle Project. This trail allows visitors to take a cross country hike using a compass and identify plants along the way. Taking this hike fulfills the orienteering part of First Class requirement #2. Identifying 10 plants along the way fulfills First Class requirement #6.
The trail starts at the "Compass Trail" kiosk which is at the end of the "Handicap Trail."
The kiosk should have trail instructions and a brochure on how to use a map and compass but if you are planning to hike this trail, it would be a good idea to print your own from the links below in case the supply at the kiosk is depleted.
- Compass Trail Instructions
- Compass "How To" brochure
- Orienteering Map (for leaders, not for scouts)
Keep in mind that this hike IS "cross country" and plan accordingly. Insect repellent is recommended to avoid ticks and chiggers. This is a very difficult hike when the underbrush is thick in mid summer. It is an easy hike in winter.