Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills is a mandatory training for all registered Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters. We will be covering the fundamental skills necessary to successfully and safely take a Scouts BSA troop or patrol on an outing. The Campsite Edition of IOLS has participants simulate a classic Scout “car camping” weekend. Therefore participants will carry their gear a short distance from a vehicle to a campsite. They will set up their tents at the site, and remain there other than short expeditions.
IOLS – Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills – Backpacking Edition
Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills is a mandatory training for all registered Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters. The course covers the fundamental skills necessary to take a Scouts BSA troop on an outing.
Participants hike to multiple stations across camp to simulate a backpacking trip while learning. Prepare to move while carrying your gear!
IOLS – Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills – Campsite Edition
Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills is a mandatory training for all registered Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters. We will be covering the fundamental skills necessary to successfully and safely take a Scouts BSA troop or patrol on an outing.
The Campsite Edition of IOLS has participants simulate a classic Scout “car camping” weekend. Therefore participants will carry their gear a short distance from a vehicle to a campsite. They will set up their tents at the site, and remain there other than short expeditions.
Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills – Backpacking Edition
Scouts BSA Leader Course, May 22nd – 23rd 2021
Adult leaders, are you comfortable with camping but would like to organize and lead more high adventure activities for your troop? In May, join our overnight Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills course to go backpacking with fellow leaders.
What is this course and who is this for?
The course explores the back corners of Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation and is led by experienced backcountry guides. This course is open for more than just those in need of Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills training. It should be noted that all required IOLS course material will be covered while hiking on the trail. The course is also for those who simply want to experience the challenge and fun of backpacking. Leaders who have completed IOLS but would like to further improve backcountry skills are more than welcome to participate.
What will I learn?
In addition to regular outdoor skills, you will learn trail navigation, gear, hydration and cooking for backcountry camping, trail crew planning and methods and tips for keeping you (and the scouts) healthy and happy on the trail. You will carry your tents to the overnight location.
What will I need?
You will need to carry a backpack, your sleeping bag/pad and scout essentials for approximately 8 miles over 2 days. There will be a Zoom Question & Answer session held where a complete gear list will be discussed on the weekend prior to the course. We highly recommend that you borrow gear you need before purchase as you will learn about what gear you want to have. 
Will I have fun?
Leaders who have completed this course have had the same reaction – they learned more than they expected and had a lot of fun together. Leave the campsite behind, get outdoors and strengthen your skills and leadership.
Where can I sign up?
Sign up soon at https://hmc-bsa.org/event/iols-intro-to-outdoor-leader-skills-backpacking-edition/. The course has a cap of 12 participants.
