A service iNeverSolo (info here) markets itself as being “better than a trail of bread crumbs”.
It is a free service where participants taking outdoor trips (hikes, canoe trips, etc.) can register their trip plan on-line, which trip plan includes contact information for those individuals who are to be notified (including the participant) in the event the trip plan is not closed by the participant at the end of the anticipated end date for the trip. Once so notified, a search may be instituted using the information provided by the trip plan to confirm whether the delay is due to an emergency.
iNeverSolo, whose pros and cons are discussed here, serves a need for those who do not have the benefit of BSA‘s tour plan, and the potential benefits afforded thereby.
The bottom line is that for Scout groups participating in an outdoor activity, particularly in the back country, someone should have your activity plan in hand, including anticipated timelines, so that no one has to “follow a trail of bread crumbs” to find those who may become missing, or who may have failed to meet anticipated waypoints in a timely manner.
Be prepared!