Trail to Eagle Camp
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The best in the U.S. for 13 years

The Trail to Eagle program is specifically designed for the older Scout to give him the opportunity to work on the merit badges he needs to finish his Eagle Rank requirements.  It is a one week, highly structured program sponsored by the Detroit Area Council and held at the D-bar-A Scout Ranch.  Scouts must be at least 13 years of age and have obtained at least the First Class Rank by July 1, 2008 to attend.

Over 2160 Eagle candidates from 12 states, 31 councils, as well as from the Far East and Trans Atlantic Councils, have attended the Trail to Eagle Camp.  For the year 2007, we had 191 Scouts participate from six states, eleven different councils, and a Scout from Shanghai, China.  All districts from the Detroit Area Council were represented.

Over 55% of our candidates have attained the rank of Eagle Scout and even more are still working on achieving this lofty goal.
         
We have had 36 staff members who have been with the program for ten years or more.  There is a ratio of one staff member for every two boys.
         
In 2007, the Trail to Eagle class earned 1,212 merit badges at an average of 6.34 merit badges per Scout for the week.

This year 43 scheduled merit badges are being offered.  We counsel all of the Eagle required merit badges except three.  We also will be offering 42 “See Counselor” merit cadges from our diversely experienced adult staff.

The Eagle candidates will sleep in cabins and eat in the dining hall.
While the emphasis is on earning merit badges, there are many other high adventure activities which add to the fun.   These include War Canoe Races, “Basar Ball” (Volleyball), Boy Scout Jeopardy, Water Ball Competition, Flag Ceremonies, Vesper Trail, OA  Ice Cream Social, Fireworks Display, and Scout Midway.  We also have a Patrol Flag Competition as well as the highly coveted Troop Spirit Award.  Troops demonstrate their spirit with cheers and songs performed at assemblies before each meal.  

One of the most sought after distinction is the George Thomas which is awarded to Eagle Candidates who exhibit the same spirit and enthusiasm that this outstanding Scouter showed for the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. 

Upon completion of our Trail to Eagle Camp there is an Honors Ceremony for our Eagle candidates to which family and friends are invited.

Last Edited: September 2, 2008