Mountain Bike Program
Our week of Mountain Biking will be located around Tsali, NC in the Nantahala Forest. The popular Tsali Recreation Area has long been considered a top destination for mountain biking in Western North Carolina, and even the entire eastern US. Containing nearly 40 miles of trails in a system with four excellent loops, it has been rated as one of the top 10 places to ride in the USA. The area is located on a hilly peninsula reaching into beautiful Fontana Lake, at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains.
We will be camping at a campground and each day exploring the nearby biking trails. The Palmetto Council asks that each scout signed up has previous experience with mountain biking and is familiar with bike maintenance.
Shuttles
Parents are responsible for dropping off at designated put in and picking up at designated take out locations. The Council can only shuttle equipment to the put in and take out locations.
We encourage parents and guardians to monitor email and texting applications for the duration of floats and hikes for the journey updates.
Crew Size
We recommend groups of 6 to 14 per week. Small or “partial” crews can be paired with other small crews (sign up early!). Combined crews from multiple units are welcome.
Adult Leadership
Crews must have two adult leaders or pair with another crew to meet 2–deep leadership requirements. At least one must be 21, and one 18. All adults must have a BSA Youth Protection card. Co-ed crews need co-ed leadership. Adults pay the same trip fees as youth.
Requirements
We recommend that Scout participants on ANY High Adventure be at least 13 years old. The following are minimum requirements, which must be met in order to ensure a safe and fun experience:
Paperwork submission, physical forms, dietary restriction information – 30 days prior to trip date.
1. Swimming Ability: All participants must pass the swimmer’s test. The standard BSA Swimmer’s Test will be used to classify swimmers and determine those eligible to go on canoe trips.
2. Canoe Handling Ability: Canoe trippers do not have to be “experts” before starting out. They should know the fundamentals of launching, paddling positions and strokes, general safety rules about wind and weather, loading and care of canoes, and canoeing safety.
3. Safety Afloat: All users of Council canoes should be trained in safety afloat. Adults must bring current BSA Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat cards. The courses are offered by the BSA Online Learning Center.