Troop 79 returns to bike the ‘burbs

Another October, another beautiful weekend for a bike trip through the Chicago suburbs.  Apparently the members of the Patrol Leader’s Council thought last year’s cycling event was worth redoing.  So we did!  Like in 2017, a hardy group of older Scouts started at the east end of the IL Prairie Path in Forest Park and pointed their handlebars west for a 25 mile ride.

Meanwhile, back at HQ, the 10 mile riders were literally bouncing off the wall they were so excited to go!  Both groups met up in Wheaton to start the next segment of the ride to camp as the SAG wagon baton was passed. Finally rolling into Camp Blackwell, the combined 10 & 25 mile riders paused for a group photo at their nice site on a little knoll with views of the surrounding fields beyond.

After going about the usual business of setting up camp, most everyone took advantage of some “feet up” time to rest their legs.  Until it was time to make dinner.  The patrol menus were just right for a chilly fall evening: foil meals with burger & potato or tomato soup with grilled cheese.  This year’s dessert was a new one – cherry/apple cobbler using a corn bread mix.  Perfect job for a couple Scouts to assist while the sunset lit the sky on fire. As the heavens faded to black, the Scouts headed to a nearby field to play “Commando”.  Hot cobbler and stories around the toasty fire were waiting for their return.  Nothing like a good day of fun to wear everyone out just enough to call it quits around 10PM.

Even a beautiful fall weekend of camping has to end some time.  With the bikes and gear packed after a hearty breakfast, the Scouts were ready to head home.  Many thanks to the adult leaders who accompanied the Scouts on the trip, as well as the parents who drove out to Blackwell to help transport the Scouts back to the city.

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[PHOTOS]

Troop 79 cyclists @boylesfour

Troop 79 campers @ Dave Keats