Bivouac

Due to COVID, the Trailmen who moved up from Mountain Lion to Navigator in 2021 hadn't camped with the troop in over a year. We needed to make sure they had the skills necessary to enjoy and contribute as Navigators, so we established a new annual experience exclusively for Navigator candidates called the Bivouac (BI-voo-ak). In Army Basic Training, the bivouac, or bivy, is when the soldiers prove their ability to survive the elements.

The details of the Bivouac are to be kept secret from the candidates so they mentally prepare for the unexpected. They can be told that they will face four challenges, but not what those challenges are. They may be told the weather so they may pack accordingly, but not where they are going.

Additionally, candidates will be expected to share a tent with at least one other candidate (not his father) and perform or assist with other aspects of the event such as gathering firewood and washing dishes.