Klondike Derby Events
Every year, the Cahokia Mounds District holds its annual Klondike Derby. This all-day event gives the Scouts a chance to work as a team and show off their skills in a bit of friendly competition.
The event is held every January. Of course, the weather at that time of the year can literally be anything, but chances are, it’s going to be cold! In addition to the lower-than-normal temperatures, chances are high that there will either be snow on the ground or it’ll be extra muddy. (Occasionally the ground is dry, but those are rare situations.)
What To Bring
As always, the Scouts and adult leaders are encouraged to check our our packing list page which covers the basics for a weekend camping trip. Given the uniqueness of this event (and the time in which it is held), you’ll want to consider the following to supplement the information our packing list page.
Dress for the Weather
- Watch the weather forecast and be prepared for it to be cold.
- Layers are a great way to stay warm while also providing flexibility to adjust as needed.
- Wear clothes that will keep you dry, and bring extras to change into if your clothes get wet.
- In most situations, hats and gloves are a must. Even if you don’t wear them all of the time, bring they in case you need them.
- Insulated winter boots are required by the event. Bags (such as bread bags) are a great backup in case your boots leak. Keep your feet dry!
Overnight
Depending on various factors, while camping that weekend we may use our normal troop tents or we may break out the big army tents. Either way, the temp inside the tent will be the same as outside of the tent. No one likes to be cold while they sleep, but there are a few simple things you can do to stay warm.
- Use a cot to keep you from having to lay on the cold ground.
- Bring a thick blanket to lay between your cot and sleeping bag. This will provide an extra layer between you and the cold air under the cot.
- Bring an appropriate sleeping bag. (Check its temperature rating.)
- For REALLY cold nights, consider bringing a second sleeping bag, putting one inside of the other. The troop has some extras that you can borrow if needed.
- Bring separate clothes to wear at night. Do not wear the same thing to bed that you wore during the day. Those clothes will be damp, and they will pull heat away from you during the night.
- A hat to keep your head warm will likely come in handy.
Troop Supplies
The PLC will help to ensure that the troop has all of the equipment needed for the event. Details of the specific needs for this event are listed in the Klondike Packet. (See below) Scouts should consider bringing extra items, just to make sure the group has enough for the event.
- If anyone has extra firewood they can bring, it would be appreciated. We will obviously use more than normal during this event.
- Bring fire starting items for use during the event and at the campsite. Don’t forget your Firem’n Chit!
- Along with your personal first aid kit, consider bringing extra items that can be included with the troop’s first aid kit.
Klondike Packet
Below is a link to the packet received from the event coordinators. It will give you some additional details, including a packing list, event schedule, map, and the rules for the event.
ALL SCOUTS ARE STRONGLY ENCROUAGED TO READ THIS CAREFULLY BEFORE THE EVENT!
