Rosalyn K. and Madeline F. Represent Grand Canyon Council at Switzerland’s International Scout Center
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) brings to life Lord Baden-Powell’s vision of a permanent mini Jamboree. Each year, Scouts from more than 50 countries gather in Kandersteg, Switzerland, to experience global Scouting fellowship and adventure.
This summer, Life Scout Rosalyn K. (Troop 3546) and Eagle Scout Madeline F. (Troop 3365), from Grand Canyon Council, joined the international community. Traveling nearly 6,000 miles from Los Angeles to Switzerland, these Scouts embraced the opportunity to connect with Scouting on a global level.
Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Bernese Alps, Rosalyn and Madeline hiked through alpine landscapes, including a gondola ride followed by a 2.5-mile trek to the crystal-clear, waterfall-fed waters of Lake Oeschinensee. Staying true to the Scouting spirit, they picked up litter along the trail, leaving the path better than they found it. They also took a thrilling ride down the famed Rodelbahn Oeschinensee.
The adventure continued as the girls explored Cholerenschlucht in Adelboden, hiking through an ancient gorge and ascending a series of steps beside roaring waterfalls. A suspension bridge near the top marked the final stretch of the hike. They also visited Engstligenalp, where they explored the area around Switzerland’s second-highest waterfall. In nearby towns, they sampled local foods, visited a family-run woodcarving shop, and toured the historic Thun Castle, built in the 1200s.
At KISC, international fellowship is just as important as adventure. Through games, communal meals, and evening campfires, the girls connected with Scouts from Sweden, Egypt, the Transatlantic Council, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Massachusetts. Together with Oliver M. from Hawk Mountain Council (PA), they led an international campfire attended by Scouts from eight different nations. Reflecting on the experience, Madeline shared, “The brotherhood of Scouting is truly amazing.”
KISC offers a variety of unique awards focused on high adventure, ecology, and international understanding. Rosalyn and Madeline earned the Swiss Explorer, International Friendship, KISC Challenge, and Eco Awards—each requiring 6–8 completed tasks.
Before departing, the girls followed a special KISC tradition: leaving a neckerchief behind in the historic Old Chalet. As repeat NYLT staff members, they chose to leave an NYLT neckerchief adorned with a Grand Canyon Council patch—a lasting tribute to their home in Arizona.
Reflecting on the journey, Rosalyn said, “The essence of Scouts was truly brought out in Switzerland.”
Their time at KISC was more than a trip—it was a life-changing adventure that deepened their connection to Scouting and the world around them.
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