Scout Troop 212 Earns the BSA 50-Mile Award on the Colorado River

At Desert River Outfitters, we believe some of the most meaningful adventures are the ones that build character, leadership, and lifelong memories. For more than 20 years, we have had the privilege of launching Scout troops from across the country on high-adventure expeditions along the Colorado River – supporting journeys that challenge Scouts to grow through teamwork, endurance, and self-reliance. This year, we were honored to support California-based Scout Troop 212 as they took on one of Scouting’s most respected milestones: the BSA 50-Miler Award.

Starting from the base of the Hoover Dam on December 27 and exiting at Cottonwood Cove on the evening of December 29, the troop entered the Colorado River at Mile Marker 63 and completed their journey at Mile Marker 22. This two-night, three-day canoe expedition tested every aspect of preparation and leadership. Completing 50 consecutive miles of strenuous outdoor travel without motorized assistance is no small feat, and earning the BSA 50-Mile Award represents far more than distance alone. It is a meaningful recognition of physical fitness, conservation awareness, perseverance, and the ability to lead and support one another in a demanding outdoor environment.

Scout Troop 212 has been navigating this stretch of the Colorado River for more than 40 years, passing down hard-earned river knowledge from one generation of Scouts to the next. This enduring tradition is guided by strong leadership, and we commend Scoutmaster John Douglas for his dedication to preparing Scouts for high-adventure experiences that emphasize responsibility, mentorship, and respect for the outdoors. His leadership, alongside the troop’s adult volunteers, played a critical role in ensuring the Scouts were well-prepared to lead themselves on this demanding journey.

Moving a group of 34 people and four days’ worth of supplies across 50 miles of river calls for experience and precision. Our role was to ensure the foundation for success was firmly in place. We coordinated group permits, managed launch logistics, and provided high-quality canoes capable of safely carrying both crew and gear. By handling these critical details, we allowed Troop 212’s leaders and Scouts to remain focused on the experience, the learning, and the tradition they proudly uphold.

For over two decades, Desert River Outfitters has specialized in supporting Scout troops, schools, and large organizations on multi-day Colorado River expeditions. These long-standing relationships are built on a shared commitment to outdoor education, environmental conservation, and the kind of leadership development that only happens through real-world experience.

Whether your troop is preparing for its very first overnight paddle or aiming to conquer the BSA 50-Miler Award like Troop 212, we provide the gear, the permits, and the logistical expertise to make it a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT SHOULD I BRING FOR AN OVERNIGHT OR MULTI-DAY TRIP?

You will want to bring everything mentioned for day trips, as well as camping gear and enough food to last the entire trip. However, keep in mind that if you are in a kayak, space is limited, and it’s similar to backpacking in terms of packing. Try to avoid excessive gear and only bring the essentials.

This advice also applies to canoeing, even though you have more room in a canoe. Aim to pack as lightly as possible. It’s recommended to use dry bags to ensure your sleeping bag and clothes stay dry.

ARE THERE AGE RESTRICTIONS?

We do not have specific age restrictions; it depends on what parents feel comfortable with. If you plan to bring a child, please ensure you have an appropriate life jacket for them. We offer children’s life jackets and recommend calling in advance to make the necessary arrangements.

However, please be aware that there are some trips that may not be suitable for smaller children. We also advise checking with other members of your group to ensure that bringing children aligns with the dynamics of the group.

HOW DO THE LAUNCH TIMES WORK AT HOOVER DAM?

We offer three launch times: 7 AM, 8 AM, and 9 AM. Before getting on the water, there is a preparation period of about 1 to 1 hour and 20 minutes, which includes ID check, loading gear, transportation from the security checkpoint (Hoover Dam Lodge) to the launch site, and unloading. Once you book, we will assign you a timeslot based on availability and send a confirmation email with your launch time. If you have a preferred time, please mention it in the notes during booking, and we will accommodate it if possible.

WHAT ARE THE LOGISTICS FOR A HOOVER DAM TRIP?

We offer two types of meetups to help you kick off your adventure the right way—Front End and Back End. Whether you’re bringing your own gear or renting from us, here’s what to expect:

Front End Meetup (For Guests with Their Own Gear) If you’re bringing your own kayak, canoe, and gear, the Front End meetup is for you. We’ll meet you at Willow Beach, where you’ll park your vehicle. After helping you tie down your kayak or canoe, we’ll drive you up to the security checkpoint near the Hoover Dam—your launch point. From there, you’re free to explore the river at your own pace, whether you’re doing a day trip, an overnight, or a 2-night adventure. Once your trip ends, you’re all done—no need to reconnect with us afterward. Meetup time: Set based on your requested launch time—usually 1 hour & 50 minutes before launch. (Example: For a 9:00 AM launch, we typically meet at 7:10 AM.)

Back End Meetup (For Guests Renting Gear from Us) If you’re renting a kayak, canoe, or gear from us, you’ll go with the Back End meetup. We’ll meet at the Hoover Dam Lodge—right where security checks IDs. That’s where you’ll park your vehicle, and from there, we’ll transport you and your gear down to the Hoover Dam base to launch. After your trip, we’ll pick up the gear and bring you back to your vehicle at the lodge. Meetup time: Set based on your requested launch time—usually 1 hour & 20 minutes before launch. (Example: For a 9:00 AM launch, we typically meet at 7:40 AM.)

WHEN SHOULD WE SEND OUR FINAL ROSTER LIST?

Please review your roster details and email any updates to kayak@email.com at least 10 days before your launch date so we can request necessary changes from the Hoover Dam.

DOES A YOUTH AGED 16 YEARS OLD OR BELOW REQUIRE A VALID ID AT THE HOOVER DAM SECURITY?