About the Day

The History of Scouting Trail (HOST Hike) is a multi-hike series that honors founders of the Boy Scouts of America while taking hikers through Scouting-related landmarks and sites in Washington, DC.

The DC History Hike is a 2.5 mile hike that takes most units 1–2 hours to complete and the route takes you from the National Geographic Museum and through the area around the White House.

Date & Time Schedule

April 29th, 2023

• The History Hike starts in the courtyard of the National Geographic Building near 17th and M Street. The address is 1145 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004.
  
• Meet here at 10:00am. The closest Metro station is Farragut North.
• The hike ends at Freedom Plaza, and the closest Metro station is Federal Triangle.

Hike Start

Hike End

Google Map Outline

What to Bring

Each hiker (including adults) should have:

1. Two pencils or pens
2. A camera (each hiker must be able to take 6 photos individually, sharing is okay, cell phones with cameras are fine)
3. Full Uniform (if you have one)
4. A watch (any kind)
5. One empty plastic bag (supermarket type)
6. Appropriate weather gear and water bottle
7. Sunscreen
8. Curiosity and sense of adventure

Leaders, you’ll need at least one of these for the whole group:

1. Compass
2. Small magnifying glass
3. One crisp $10 bill (for one of the clues – you keep it)
4. Binoculars (Recommended)

Earn The Patch!

All Scout participants will earn this amazing History Hike Patch!