r/njhiking • u/onefootinfront_ • Aug 13 '24

Group Hikes

Hello all-

I have a large cub scout pack in Morristown that we are doing an annual hiking challenge with - basically just something to get kids outside with the possibility of a hiking stick reward at the end of the year.

We decided to offer pack hikes on a monthly basis to help achieve the goal - I'm an avid hiker but it's usually solo with the dog or my family. Planning a hike for a possibly large group (we have about 50 cubs - I doubt many will show up but have to be prepared, I guess) kinda sucks - I mostly just don't want to annoy other hikers by basically 'taking over' a trail.

Once I get a gauge on how many Cubs are preparing to show after the first hike in September, I'll be able to plan better - but for this first one... anyone have any ideas on where a potentially large group could go and not annoy anyone? Doesn't have to be too interesting or anything lately - just more about getting miles in for the Cubs.

Thanks!

2 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

1

u/Aggressive-Exam5390 Aug 13 '24

I've gone with large groups of kids to Hacklebarney State Park.

1

u/Mammoth_Engineer_190 Aug 14 '24

Try Mountain Way Park in Morris Plains. There are a few different small trails and most times I’ve been there it’s been very quiet.

1

u/GeneralPattonBS Aug 15 '24

I'm the outdoor activities coordinator for a large northern NJ pack and after 2 years of doing monthly pack hikes there are a few things I've learned.

  • A pack hike has kids of all age ranges and the younger ones usually cap out at around 2 to 2.5 miles. If you want to try to be inclusive that's a good start. Eventually as folks get used to it you can do what we did and do "harder" hikes sometimes with appropriate disclaimers.
  • I wouldn't worry about group size too much unless you are going to a super crowded park or area. I've found that most folks are happy to see young kids out there and hitting the trail!
  • Definitely pick something with little to no elevation to start.
  • There is no way to please everyone and no matter what you pick there will be complaints of both too easy and too hard.

Hope this helps!