Welcome to Troop 144's Website!
Boy Scouts of America is a Youth led, Adult guided organization that seeks to help the youth grow physically and mentally. We challenge the youth of the organization to do more than they thought possible, and achieve goals that most youth and adult only get to dream about.
The most important thing about scouting is to have fun. Through hiking, camping, water sports and other activities, the Youth learn about the world, to be independent, and have fun while doing so. They also gather skills that help them in the outdoors now, and as adults.
Advancement in Scouting helps the boy mature, and prepares him for the responsibilities that life will bring him as he grows. Gaining the rank of Eagle is a supreme achievement, and pays dividends on college, or military applications.
The Troop schedules many events throughout the year. Some of these may be site camping trips, backpacking trips, rafting and canoeing, Skiing, cycling on the various trails, sailing and fishing trips, and overnight stays on Museum ships other trips and service projects that present unique opportunities to the youth, and adults. We also plan and execute a major trip once every 4 years. The troop has been very active and has several unique experiences in the past, and some exciting prospects in the future. The adventures are only limited by the imagination and energy of the troop! Some of these are:
Camping
This camping is usually focused on teaching the boys skills that they need for some of the longer backpacking trips. Skills such as First Aid, compass and map reading, cooking and wilderness survival are taught to give the boys confidence in the great outdoors.
Rafting
The Dan and Mayo rivers close to here, and the Nantahala and Tuckaseegee are located in the western part of the state. Next Spring, the excitement starts all over again with some new rivers with greater challenges.
Backpacking
Backpacking trips are part of being a scout. Several backpacking trips to areas of North Carolina have given the boys a taste of the excitement that can be found on the trail. Other trails await.
Cycling
Other opportunities for excitement are some of the many cycling trails located in this area of the country. One of the best is the Virginia Creeper Trail located just over the virginia border in Damascus Virginia. From the start of White top Mountain to Abington, it is more than 30 miles of picturesque trail highlighted by some stunning xcenery. Of course some of the boys would rather see how can get to the bottom first, it is still a great ride.
SCUBA Diving
This troop just finished a trip to the Bahamas in a sailboat, and SCUBA diving in the warm waters of the Atlantic Gulf stream. The Boys and adults are be PADI Trained. Preparation for this trip starts almost a year in advance. What other adventure waits?
Merit Badges
There are over 170 Merit Badges that can be earned in Scouting. While 21 are required for Eagle Scout, there are many to choose from. Shooting, Boating, and other high adventure opportunities are waiting so that you can review potential hobbies, or careers.
West Point Camporee
The West Point Camporee is an event that is held at the United States Military Academy located at West Point New York. We have gone to this event for the last 2 years and they keep getting better.
Trips
The Troop has taken trips to South Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts and other locations. More adventures are just around the bend. Is Europe in our future? Find out!!!
Service
Scouting is a service organization. Through the “Adopt a Highway” program and service to those in need, Boy Scouts helps encourage the boys to establish a life-long commitment of service to their community.
ADULT OPPORTUNITIES
Boy Scouts of America are always looking for adults that wish to help the youth of the community grow and develop into fine young men. It is an opportunity for the mothers and fathers to spend quality time with their boys, and help them experience adventure.
While providing positive guidance to the boys of the troop, adults assist them in planning, organizing and conducting the trips and activities that they have identified as their goals. Helping in this endeavor is a rewarding experience for all ages. Help us shape the future 1 boy at a time.
What adventure is waiting around the next bend for you? Join Boy Scouts and push your boundaries!!!