Seattle Historical Hike
Map and worksheet from Seattle Council
A five mile hike that takes eight hours? Is that possible?
Okay, technically the eight hours wasn’t all spent hiking. And this hike *could* be done in 2 hours, including the shortest movie at the Klondike Gold Rush museum. But if you’re going to do it, might as well do it right — and have fun in the process!
The Seattle Historical Hike is one that can earn you a patch AND A MEDAL from the Seattle Council. The patch requires making the hike and filling in a worksheet along the way. Add a 200+ word essay to earn the medal. 
The hike begins across from the Federal Building, where the local branches of the FBI, IRS, and other acronym-laden agencies reside. We were lucky enough to run into… yep, a Scoutmaster who works in the building across the street. He gave us a lot of the history of the area, and helped us start the worksheets (note: the worksheet is being updated, and not every answer is able to be found on the hike [most, though]).
Throughout the hike, Scouts must find answers by reading historic plaques, searching totem poles, or espying details on a statue. They’re interesting and short enough to maintain their interest.
One of the longer requirements is to watch a movie at the Klondike Gold Rush Museum. There are three available, ranging from 15 to 25 mins. We opted for the longer one (very nicely done) about the Gold Rush. Afterward, plan time to let the boys explore the museum.
The hike ends at the Center for Wooden Boats. You’ll want to leave a lot of time to explore here. If you’re lucky, you might find a member there who will be willing to share his knowledge of boats, the sea, ship-building, or carving.
Other places along the trail that you’ll definitely want to plan for additional time include Pike Place Market (where you can view the Gum Wall), Seattle Center (there’s a McD across the street to stop for an inexpensive lunch), the Waterfall Garden, and the various shops and stores along the way (the FIRST Starbucks is just across the street from Pike Place).
This is a great hike for Scouts needing their map and compass requirement for 2nd class. You have to stretch it just a bit to get the five miles in, but that shouldn’t be a problem with bunny trails and trackbacks.
A note of caution. Seattle has changed since the original route was planned. It’s definitely NOT a hike you’d want a patrol to do, or one that you’ll want to take boys who can’t be trusted to stay with the group. Two adults, definitely. We ran into a lot of people, most of whom were wonderful. There is, however, an unsavory element in some neighborhoods that requires a little more watchful eye.
February 25th, 2010 at 10:56 pm
The link to the map and worksheet no longer work. Will you please email those to me?
Thanks!
May 14th, 2010 at 10:37 am
Where did you get your trail medals cast?
Jack – Scouter in New York