Navigators and Adventurers worked hard to hike the steep trail to Henningar Flats.  Several were brand new Navigators.  They took it one step at a time and persevered.  The reward was an early fireworks show, a devotion and fellowship with friends. 

On Saturday,  February 21st,  a group of 4 adult leaders, 2 dads and 7 boys embarked on backpacking trip with a distance of 3 miles up to Henninger Flats which is just below Mount Wilson. The morning was cool and overcast which helped to keep us cool. For some of the boys, it was their first backpacking trip hiking up steep climbs and carrying 30 or more pounds on their backs. We went slow but steady and I am sure they felt a great sense of accomplishment when they reached the top. Once we got up there we rested for a few minutes and then we set up camp before the rains came. 

The boys got to work on their badge work on the trail and with a beautiful view of the San Gabriel Valley. After that we started a fire!!!! The boys also learned different methods to start a fire from the leaders and it came just in time as the temperatures were dropping. Each boy broke out their own version of a lightweight dinner from Cup O' Noodles, to spaghetti, vegetables, and the ever satisfying peanut butter and jelly sandwich!! Before turning in for the day the boys gathered all the food, wrappers, toothpaste and stored it in a bear box to prevent any bear visits to the camp that night. 

Our attendees included Javier, Justin, George, Armen, Saren, Bryson, Joseph, Daniel, Scott, Jonah, and Timothy.

It was truly a blessed experience as it started raining just after we turned in for the night.  We enjoyed hearing the rain on the tents and outside. As we woke up to a wet camp the next morning, the air was cool and fresh as we started packing and eating breakfast. This was a learning experience for all and truly a blessing to each of the boys as they camped out on the trail!

Great start with many more to come!  We thank God for the trail and opportunity to experience it. Thank you to the leaders and dads who came out with us too.


Blessings,


Javier

Early morning hike to Henninger Flats.  All ages of Trailmen were represented.  After 4 hours we rested at Tommy's.  Yum!