On September 9th, Boy Scout Troop 477 headed out to Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania for one of the most thrilling excursions of the year, the annual white water rafting trip. After spending the night at a local church, the troop woke up early to prepare for their voyage down the Youghiogheny River. At 10:00 the scouts headed into the water and floated downstream towards the first turbulence, Cucumber Rapids. They were easier then some, but still made a great starting point. Shortly following this was Railroad Rapids and some more intense, but unnamed rapids. Lunch was furnished by the rafting service, and provided the name for the next event, Lose-your-lunch Rapids. These contain the fabled Dimple and Pinball rocks, known for the large amount of raft flips caused by them. Multiple expanses of easygoing water provided a fine rest, and a great place for raiding other scouts' rafts. After the vessel seizing had finished, various rapids, such as Double Hydraulic and River's End, challenged the troop, but all were safely conquered. Around 4:00, the rafters went ashore, and were hauled back to the raft companies headquarters via school bus. Although white water rafting is fun, you have to stop and think about how we can enjoy the turbulent nature of water, while others are being badly affected by it in the south.
The raft trip has become a high point for the Troop. This has been the third time in three years that the scouts have participated in this event. This experience teaches teamwork and trust, since on every raft there is a guide, and each participant must follow his directions exactly to avoid disaster.
Corey B., Troop Scribe