Winter Camping

Elizabeth Furnace

1 - 3 February 2008

Our annual trek to Elizabeth Furnace was true winter camping!  When we arrived on Friday night the trees were covered with ice, but it was slightly above freezing and the water was coming off the trees like rain.  Thanks to Mr Drejer and Robert, though, there was a great fire going when we arrived.  The above freezing temperatures didn't last long and everyone earned their polar bear camping patch as the low for the night was around 20 degrees.  But cold temps make for fresh air and a wonderful campfire.  On Saturday morning we had the second annual Troop 1018 Super Bowl, won by the Patriots, but unlike last year, this year's 1018 score was not a precursor of the real thing the next day.  On Saturday afternoon we all took a hike to the ruins of Elizabeth Furnace and learned a bit about iron making in the 1700's.  Saturday evening was time for the campfire and some great 1018 cuisine.  On Sunday we fulfilled one of Mr. White's dreams as the Philmont crew (augmented by a few other adventuresome Scouts) hiked over Massanuten Mountain.  All in all another top notch winter camping adventure!