The ‘Chiltern 20 Challenge’ tests young people’s knowledge of navigation as well as their endurance

4th Enfield Scouts Chiltern 20 Challenge — Members of the 4th Enfield Scouts during the Chiltern 20 Challenge

Young members of an Enfield Scouts group have completed one of the movement’s toughest hiking challenges.

Two groups of hikers from the 4th Enfield Scouts took on the ‘Chiltern 20 Challenge’ last week in a test of their skills and stamina, using their knowledge of navigation, teamwork, and endurance to walk across sections of the Chiltern Hills.

The event featured two routes; a junior event covering approximately ten kilometres for those aged from 10.5 to 12.5 years, and a main event stretching over 20km for older Scouts aged 12.5 to 14.5 years. Both routes required teams to navigate using only a map and compass.

This year, 4th Enfield entered teams in both categories. The junior teams tackled the shorter route “with energy and enthusiasm”, while the main event teams showed “impressive resilience” over the full course, navigating checkpoints and challenging terrain.

Tina Plewes, one of the adult volunteers supporting the group, praised the children’s determination: “It’s not just about the distance—it’s about problem-solving, supporting each other, and pushing through when it gets tough.

“The 4th Enfield Scouts showed real grit and spirit today. We’re incredibly proud of them. As a volunteer I also had a great weekend and I would encourage new volunteers to join us.”

For many of the scouts, it was their first time taking part in such a physically and mentally demanding event. James Thorp reflected on the experience and said: “It was hard going at times, especially the hills, but we kept each other going. Finishing the hike felt amazing. I can’t wait to do the main event next year.”

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