Iruma River 8/19

Today we were greeted by bright skies and good weather, making our plan of visiting the river even more appealing. Due to the heavy rain we experienced yesterday, I decided to head to Iruma river, which we knew was flowing calmly and safe. The Scouts kept the drive full of fun with their karaoke and conversation. Everyone worked together to bring down our gear and set up camp in the shade.

Instead of swimming first we decided to start the fire, so that it would have time to burn down to embers while we all cooled off with a quick dip. With my help and their own knowledge, the Scouts helped to build the fire by collecting wood, making tinder from wood, and feeding the fire once it had started.

After we were sure the fire was stable, we went downstream to explore a part of the river we hadn’t previously visited. It had many, cool pools to swim in, and more fish for the Scouts to observe and try to catch. When we had played for a while, we headed back to shore to check on our fire, which had burned down to the perfect temperature to roast marshmallows. The Scouts chowed down on their snack of s’mores before all cleaning up to head to the diving spot.

Although some Scouts were more nervous about jumping at first, with only a little encouragement they were all lining up to be the next to dive, even from the highest spot. Between jumping from the bridge and rock, the Scouts rode the boogie board through the rapids, played games in the water, and tried to go under the waterfall together.

Soon enough everyone was more than a bit hungry, so we went back to camp to have lunch. when we had finished the Scouts before going back in the water, and then we went to the shallow areas to wade. Some scouts caught fish, others skipped rocks, and some just took the opportunity to lay back and relax in the cool water.

Once lunch had settled we headed back to the diving spot to finish off our day strong. Everyone jumped and swam to their heart's content, and by the time we had gotten back to camp and changed clothes, all the scouts were fully tired out. When we got to the car, a few even fell asleep only some minutes into the drive home. However, there was still one treat left in the day; although we didn’t have time to stop for souvenirs, when we had to stop for a toilet break I grabbed some ice cream for all the Scouts to enjoy.

Thank you all for coming today, we had an amazing time at Iruma River see you again soon!