SCOUTING FOR GIRLS 
367 
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING 
BY ELOISE ROORBACH, GARDEN EDITOR OF “TOUCHSTONE.” 
Mountain climbing is the final test of a Girl Scout’s 
perseverance in following a trail, in endurance, courage 
and woodcraftmanship. Nature reserves her choicest 
beauties and secrets for those who know how to conquer 
all difficulties. No Girl Scout’s education is complete 
until she has seen mountain peaks like waves of the sea 
flashing with white snow foam, piercing the blue sky 
as far as the eye can reach; clouds forming below her 
feet ; breathed rare air found only in high places ; drunk 
from the pure source of rivers, and heard the mighty 
roar of waterfalls. A climb to a high mountain top is 
an experience that will enrich and influence the entire 
after life of whoever has had the hardihood and wisdom 
to accomplish it. 
Before attempting this last test of scouting the girl 
must be in perfect physical trim, be able to sleep on the 
ground, have learned to live simply. Girls should train 
for this experience by taking graduated hikes. On these 
hikes the girls can practice using the condensed foods 
that must be depended upon in mountain climbing. The 
rations for those who wish to climb to high places must 
necessarily be condensed, for each Scout must carry her 
own rations for two weeks. 
The foundation of a mountain climber’s bill of fare is 
rice, bacon, cheese, chocolate, raisins, dates, dried fruits, 
powdered soups, whole wheat crackers, and tea. Tea 
should be used instead of coffee. The eating chocolate 
is sometimes made into a refreshing drink. Only a small 
amount of sugar and salt can be carried. This fare is 
augmented by mushrooms, wild fruit and berries and 
fish. Watercress is a refreshing addition and a good 
Scout knows where to find it. Some hardened climbers 
add a little “jerky” (dried meats) to this bill of fare. 
