Across the country, Arrowmen lace up their boots, hoist their packs, and set off into the wilderness on adventures that change lives. From the rugged trails of Philmont to the sparkling Boundary Waters, the coral reefs of the Florida Keys, and the peaks of the New River Gorge, the OA High Adventure (OAHA) experience is unlike anything else in Scouting.
Every lodge has Arrowmen who are searching for something deeper in their Scouting journey—something that pushes them, refocuses them, and reminds them why they fell in love with the outdoors in the first place. OA High Adventure provides exactly that. For two unforgettable weeks, participants give back in cheerful service before setting out on an expedition of their own design. They return stronger, more confident, and more committed to serving others. Many say it’s the moment they truly understood the meaning of brotherhood.
“I attended OA Trail Crew when I was just 16 years old. I was active with my lodge but after my trek at Philmont, everything felt different. At Philmont I experienced what I would say is the ultimate OA and Scouting adventure, I experienced the spirit of the arrow… of brotherhood… of service, cheerfulness and leadership. OA High Adventure is what prepared me to be a better lodge chief, chapter chief, elangomat, section chief… honestly it prepared me for life.” - Ben D. Tuku’ut Lodge
Yet, what truly makes OAHA extraordinary isn’t just the scenery or the challenges, it’s the people who make it possible. It’s the lodge chief who speaks passionately about it at a banquet. It’s the adviser who encourages a young Arrowman to take the leap. It’s the small, simple act of promotion that sparks a summer of transformation. Lodge chiefs and advisers have a unique opportunity to open this door for others. Promoting OAHA is about shaping leaders. The Arrowmen who build trails, paddle lakes, or sail open waters today will become the leaders of tomorrow. These young people return home inspired to serve and lead in their chapters, lodges, and units.
The invitation is simple: talk about OA High Adventure with your lodge, post about it on your lodge’s social media, and work with your section’s OAHA ambassador to promote it at events. Every arrowmen should know about the opportunities of High Adventure open to them, especially those in your units and chapters.
Each Arrowman who steps onto an OA High Adventure trail carries the legacy of their lodge with them and each one who returns brings back renewed purpose and passion. This year, make sure your lodge plays a part in that journey. Promote OAHA proudly, and help your Arrowmen discover the adventure and the brotherhood that lasts a lifetime.