Eagle-required merit badges that have alternatives --- an observation

[Eagledad]

1 minute ago, RememberSchiff said:

Back in the day, I recall more map reading, planning a route involved with Hiking merit badge.  It was destination first, routing for distance second.  I had to know location of police stations, hospitals, likely phone booths. 

Now, like Swimming and Cycling, IMO it is just going the distance. Have a 5 mile rail trail nearby, 4 laps with little elevation change or navigation. 20 miles,just git er done.  One scout wanted to hike around his high school track - 80 laps. 

I agree. Scouting should be an adventure experience, not efficient rank advancement.

Barry