Written by Lucy Y., a dedicated Girl Scout and outdoor enthusiast, this guide celebrates the joys of backpacking and outdoor exploration, particularly within the captivating landscapes of Central Texas. For Girl Scouts and troop leaders looking to venture beyond familiar campsites, the Goodwater Loop Trail offers an ideal introduction to the wilderness.
Girl Scout Troop 572 embarks on their inaugural backpacking expedition along the scenic Goodwater Loop Trail, fostering early experiences in outdoor adventure.
Growing up in Central Texas, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have access to some of the region’s most stunning natural trails right in my backyard. My involvement with Girl Scouts, especially within a troop that champions outdoor activities, has further enriched my appreciation for nature. Inspired by these experiences, my Gold Award project became a mission to encourage more Girl Scouts to embrace camping, hiking, and backpacking in diverse outdoor settings, beyond the usual Girl Scout-owned properties. While these familiar locations offer convenience, the true adventure lies in discovering new trails and parks, and I was eager to share this with fellow scouts and leaders.
Exploring the Goodwater Loop Trail: A Backpacking Haven for Girl Scouts
The Goodwater Loop Trail, stretching 26.9 miles around the picturesque Lake Georgetown, stands out as a prime destination for Girl Scout troops seeking outdoor adventures. Its accessibility and scenic beauty make it perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. My troop’s journey with this trail began during my Brownie years, evolving from simple hikes to overnight backpacking trips as we progressed to Cadettes. A highlight was completing the entire loop in a single weekend in 2019, a testament to our troop’s growing outdoor skills and teamwork.
Crockett Garden Falls, captured during the filming of the backpacking video series, showcases one of the Goodwater Loop Trail’s breathtakingly scenic waterfalls and natural beauty.
To better understand the needs of troop leaders interested in backpacking, my Gold Award project included a survey. An overwhelming 80% of respondents expressed a desire for more information about local backpacking trails and suitable locations. This feedback directly inspired the creation of a comprehensive four-part video series. This series serves as a “Scouts Guide To The” fundamentals of backpacking, offering step-by-step guidance for beginners. It also highlights various hiking and camping opportunities specifically along the Goodwater Loop Trail, making it easier for leaders to plan their own troop adventures. Further resources and detailed information are readily available on my troop website, designed to be a helpful hub for other Girl Scout troops venturing into backpacking.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Backpackers: Sharing Knowledge and Passion
Extending the reach of my project, I had the opportunity to present backpacking basics to numerous troops at Sasquatch, an engaging weekend event dedicated to building essential outdoor skills among Girl Scouts. The enthusiasm was palpable; an incredible 100% of girls attending my backpacking session expressed a strong interest in trying it themselves! Connecting with fellow Girl Scouts and sparking their excitement for backpacking was undoubtedly the most rewarding aspect of this entire endeavor.
Presenting “Backpacking 101” at the Sasquatch event, engaging Girl Scouts with essential backpacking knowledge and fostering enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits.
Now, as a Lifetime Member of Girl Scouts, I am eagerly anticipating Trailblazers, an upcoming volunteer retreat centered around outdoor leadership. I’m thrilled to lead a “Backpacking 101” presentation, continuing my mission to ignite a passion for the outdoors within the Girl Scout community through accessible resources and shared experiences.
To begin your troop’s backpacking journey on the Goodwater Loop Trail, explore the first video in my training series:
A Scout’s Guide to the Goodwater Loop Trail: Part 1 – Overlook to Tejas
