Backpacking Interest Group (BIG) for Cadette and Senior Girl Scouts in the Northern California Council

Love hiking and camping and want something more challenging? Try backpacking with other Girl Scouts! You'll learn new outdoor and team skills, meet girls with interests like yours, and enjoy the beauty of the out of doors.

BIG welcomes both independent scouts or members of a regular troop.

Members need not attend all events: once you're trained (attend one evening training and then attend a Beginner trip) you can go on as many trips as you want. Girls should be capable of carrying a backpack and hiking 3-5 miles for the beginner trips.

Resources for Leaders: Here are some tips (including the weekend packing list) that we've developed over the years.

2017/2018 Backpacking Group Events

Last updated 12-22-17

Get started by attending any one of the trainings listed below then come on a weekend trip. Can't make any of those training dates? Email us!

For the time being we meet either at a church near Foothill Expwy & Grant Road in Los Altos or in Palo Alto depending on the day.

Stay informed by joining our mailing list (email us to be added)

Planning Meetings start earlier for girls who need a a Pack Inspection.

We can arrange trainings at troop meetings or come talk to your troop about backpacking.

2008-2010 BIG event photos

• Mission Peak, January 2011
• Black Diamond Mine January 2010
• Ventana Wilderness May 2009
• Henry Coe State Park Trail Work, April 2009, Part 1
• Henry Coe State Park Trail Work April 2009, Part 2
• BIG to Big Basin March 2009
• Henry Coe March 2008
• Sunol February 2008

2005-2009 BIG event photos

Check out our pictures at pbase.com/big_santaclara and our wildflower gallery.

2004-2005 BIG event photos

• Castle Rock
• Big Basin
• Sierra Hut
• Henry Coe
• Angel Island
• Hetch Hetchy

2003-2004 BIG event photos

• The Faces of the 2004 Summer Miler at Ansel Adams and Yosemite Wilderness Areas
• Big Basin
• Henry Coe
• Sunol

2002-2003 B.I.G. event photos

• 2003 SUMMER MILER PHOTOS: DESOLATION WILDERNESS
• Pt Reyes
• Castle Rock
• Henry Coe Photos
• Angel Island Photos
• Tuolumne River Photos

2001-2002 B.I.G. events (links & pictures)