More on this later along with some pictures, but the trip to the White Mountains was a fine adventure although your Scoutmaster barely survived the Mt. Madison hike and his boots have since been retired to the big, blue dumpster. I really liked those boots, too … The weather was warm both days with the first night below freezing and the second night well above freezing. There was no rain. Unfortunately, the lake had been drained by the time we got there so we could not run a swim class, 
For the first time in four years or so we ran a backpacking element which went well.
The event coordinator did a superb job and to him along with those who supplied food for the adults and to those who did the driving — THANK YOU. Thanks also to all those adults who took time out to come along.
The Scouts did a fine job. Even though we got back to camp both nights just as night was descending, meal preparation was smooth and cleanup was excellent.
The presence of two JASMs was very much appreciated!
As with all trips, check your equipment carefully for any problems so it will be ready to go the next time and be sure to check yourselves for things like ticks. We were not in tick country, but one never knows … I will not mention the mouse found in my boot …
One note which I don’t want to wait to send out. Water bottles are important. While the streams are cold, clear, and inviting, it is not safe to drink from them. Scouts should have at least one 1-liter water bottle. Two would be even better. I found that on the hikes we took this weekend, 1 liter of water was not enough for most of the hikers. Part of that was too much in the way of salty snacks, but part of it was simply that hiking in the White Mountains is work. So purchase and pack an extra bottle. And make it BPA-free.
-Hank Manz