The City That Our Nation’s Only Eagle Scout President Called Home
Established in partnership with the Michigan Crossroads Council and DeVos Learning Center, and revived in celebration of the 50th anniversary of President Ford’s inauguration, the President Ford Historic Trail is part of Scouting America’s National Historic Trails Program to bring to life the ideas, principles, and traditions that have made our nation strong. This trail unites two defining characteristics of President Ford’s youth—a love of the outdoors and an appreciation for his hometown of Grand Rapids—that culminates in a special experience at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. While there, Scouts will learn how the values that Ford learned as a Scout shaped his lifetime of public service and prepared him to lead our nation with integrity when he was called to serve as President.
Scouts who complete all requirements will receive a patch courtesy of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation to show their participation. The first 700 Scouts who complete the optional canoe trip and all of the trail’s requirements will receive a trail medal.
Trail Requirements
Canoe or Kayak Trip
Take an optional eight-mile canoe or kayak trip down the Grand River from DNR Park in Plainfield Township to Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. This trip is estimated to take two to three hours to complete, depending on conditions. Scouts that certify completion of Grand River portion of the trail qualify for a trail medal.
Urban Hike
From Riverside Park, hike three miles along the Grand River through city parks, crossing over the 6th Street Bridge and seeing the fish ladder alongside the old 6th Street Dam. Check out Canal Street Park, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, and some of the historical markers along the way. Plan on spending a least an hour and a half on this hike.
Museum Visit
Make your way to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Scouts in their official Scout uniforms are provided with complimentary Museum admission. Plan on spending an hour in the Museum to participate in a special Scouts-only program about President Ford’s life and explore the Museum to learn about the impact that Scouting had on Ford’s service to our nation.
Reflect on Ford
Work with your Senior Patrol Leader or Crew to write a letter (about 250 words) about your experience. Paper and pencils will be provided at the Museum. Turn in your letter to the program instructor at the Museum to earn a special patch to show your participation.
Resources for a Great Trail Visit
Resources listed here are provided as a courtesy to Scouts, and should neither be considered to be an exhaustive list of options in the area nor an endorsement from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
