Menlo Park Scout Troop 222 completes epic 50-mile wilderness trek

After nearly 10 years, Menlo Park’s Troop 222 brought back one of its most challenging Scouting traditions this summer: the 50-Miler.

Thirteen Scouts — ages 11 to 16 — and five adult leaders spent seven days backpacking more than 50 miles through California’s Emigrant Wilderness, a demanding accomplishment that required six months of preparation and training.

Before setting out, the Scouts logged as many as 60 miles on training hikes while learning the skills needed for a week in the backcountry. Once on the trail, they navigated rugged terrain, filtered their own drinking water, cooked at elevations reaching 10,000 feet, and followed Leave No Trace and fire safety principles.

The trek tested far more than physical endurance. Scouts led the crew, made daily decisions, managed their own routines and looked out for one another. When injuries — including sprained ankles — challenged the group, Scouts stepped up to provide First Aid, adjust the pace and carry additional gear.

They were rewarded with the experience of true wilderness: breathtaking mountain scenery, remote alpine lakes and several days without encountering anyone outside their own group.

The Scouts also documented the remarkable flora they encountered along the way. Explore their interactive field guide and relive a small part of their extraordinary journey.

For Troop 222 Scoutmaster Diego Sabio Paese, the most meaningful part of the journey was seeing how the Scouts responded to the challenge.

“I can say with 100% confidence that I saw profound personal growth and resilience in every single Scout on this trek,” he said.

Troop 222 is a family Scouting America troop based in Menlo Park serving Scouts in grades 6–12. Learn more at t222.org.