Inside Boys’ Life

Scouts Hike in the Footsteps of One of America’s Greatest Military Treks

In 1846, more than 500 soldiers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began a 1,900-mile march from Iowa to California to help West Coast troops during the Mexican-American War. Along the way, they cooked cakes on glowing coals, tussled with “jumping” cholla cactuses and trekked across rugged deserts.

The regiment’s journey has been called “the greatest march of infantry in the…

It’s time to honor the year’s best videogames for kids. Help us pick the readers’ favorites using the poll below. We’ll announce the winners of the Boysies Awards in the December 2019 issue of Boys’ Life magazine or online at boyslife.org.

Did we miss your favorite game? Make sure to tell us about it using the comment form below.

What’s going on in this picture? What is that dinosaur doing or thinking?

If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page. After we approve it, your funny caption will be on this page for everyone to read.

Click here to write captions for more funny photos.

When you join a Scouts BSA troop, one of the first things you’ll work on is earning the rank of Scout.

Good news! You’ll complete many of these same requirements when you’re a Webelos Scout. Then after you join a Scouts BSA troop, all you have to do is show an adult Scouts BSA leader what you’ve learned.

The key is to pay attention now, so you don’t have to relearn everything later.

First — if…

Here’s what you’ll find inside the September 2020 issue of Boys’ Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit boyslife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Boys’ Life magazine.

SEPTEMBER 2020 FEATURES

MAKE THIS YEAR THE BEST SCOUTING YEAR EVER!

Fun. Leadership. Fitness. And, of course, the great…

Best multitool that's both useful and affordable

Q: What’s the best type of multitool that’s useful and affordable? — Levi, Orcutt, California

A: The best type is one that has the tools you need. Do you really need to spend $170 on a heavy-duty device equipped with a miniature saw, hammer and electrical crimper for your monthly campouts? Probably not.

Shop in a manufacturer’s compact line. These pocket-sized tools will have fewer features, but…

Take a Look at These 10 Intense Tents

Check out this photo gallery of crazy, futuristic, unusual and awesome tents. Which is your favorite?

The Tunnel Tent

These concept tents can be easily set up by themselves, or they can be connected together to make an entire tent community.

The Solar Tent

Three panels above this tent are woven with solar threads that collect the sun’s energy and provide power for lights and portable devices.

Th…

Use your gravity controls to help your bot escape the space station.

Use your gravity controls to help your bot escape the space station.

Being prepared with the right first-aid supplies could save your pup’s life in an emergency.

Keep the items below in a gallon-sized resealable bag and label it “Dog First Aid” with permanent marker. Then store the kit in an easily accessible place at home. Don’t forget to pack it if you take a trip with your pup.

WHA…

One of the best things about being in the wilderness is getting away from the rush of cities and everyday life. One of the biggest challenges of being in the wilderness is that you’re far away from the conveniences of cities and everyday life.

That’s why it’s critical to Be Prepared for a variety of things that could go wrong.

You can never fully eliminate all risk, but by understanding it,…

For a safe and fun bicycle ride, make sure you check and maintain these important parts of your bike.

1. Make sure your tires are inflated at the correct pressure. Underinflated tires can result in cuts and damage.

2. Make sure the chain is clean and lubricated with a bike-specific lubricant. Less is best when it comes to lubricating. Wipe away any excess.

3. Check tires for cracks and cuts.Re…

The most satisfying part of Scouting is right there in the Oath: “I will do my best.” Because, really, that’s what it all comes down to.

Do your best to be a leader, to be competent in the outdoors, to stay physically fit and to continue to work toward the next rank.

Do your best to set a good example, to learn how to camp or hike or bike, to eat healthy and to finish that open merit badge you…

Q: My troop camps a lot, and sometimes it rains. What is some quality rain gear that’s also affordable? — Timmy, Anchorage, Alaska

A: You can invest in a rain jacket and pants, but quality can get expensive. If you’re watching your wallet, look at ponchos.

Emergency ponchos cost a dollar or two and work OK if you get caught in the rain. However, many don’t fit very well, so your arms and legs…

Itching to take your pup on a hike? Then be sure to get the right dog gear. (And make sure you’re not itching because you have fleas!)

MICROCHIP

A microchip for your dog is essential. Your vet can put this tiny piece of technology under your pet’s skin so if lost and then found, he or she can be tracked back to your family.

REFLECTING DOG LEASH

Anything that makes you and your pet easier…

From the awe-inspiring to the aww!-inspiring, the BSA’s Family Fun Fest is shaping up to be the summer’s biggest event.

On Aug. 8, you’ll hear from NASCAR driver Joey Logano, discover the secrets of spacewalks from a barrier-breaking NASA astronaut and score expert advice for crafting the fastest, best-looking Pinewood Derby car ever built.

Family Fun Fest begins at 11 a.m. Eastern Time on Aug.…

Here’s what you’ll find inside the August 2020 issue of Boys’ Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit boyslife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Boys’ Life magazine.

AUGUST 2020 FEATURES

MAINE EVENT

Preparation and teamwork are the only paths to success on this high-adventure challenge.

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Three Things to Know About Launching Water Bottle Rockets

Did you know you can launch a rocket in your backyard using only an empty plastic bottle, water and a launchpad?

Unlike engine-powered rockets, water bottle rockets don’t pose a fire risk and often require less prep. These DIY rockets still pack a powerful launch and should be treated with caution. Read on to prepare for your own, epic launch.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Water Bottle…