The Ranch

The Philmont Scout Ranch is 137,493 acres in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Cimmaron in northern New Mexico. There are 330 miles of challenging trails in this remote and historical area. Elevations vary from a 6,000-ft to 12,440ft, the average campsite is at 7,800 ft. Weather conditions can vary from hot and dry in the desert to cool and wet in the mountains, it may even snow in the high mountains. Philmont is a working cattle ranch and offers rich natural beauty. Wildlife includes buffalo, deer, elk, coyote, antelope, mountain lion, beaver, wild turkey, black bear and more.

The Program

The contingent will be divided into crews of up to 12 members (at least two, but no more than four, of these are adult advisors). Each crew will explore the Philmont high country on a 12 day backpacking expedition. Along the way, crews will have a chance to participate in exciting and challenging activities like horseback riding, burro packing, blacksmithing, gold panning, archaeology, rock climbing, rappelling, .30-06 rifle shooting, and mine exploration. Philmont offers a variety of interesting and rewarding learning experiences. Participants will be immersed in the fellowship and group participation that is a must to survive the 70 odd miles of trails covered during a typical expedition.

Who May Participate

Participants must be registered with the Boy Scouts of America, and be 14 years old by January 1 of the year they attend or have completed the 8^th grade by the day they arrive. Scouts must be under 18 years of age and hold at least First Class rank. Explorers may be male or female and must be under 21 years of age. Adult advisors must be at least 18 years old. Each crew must have at least one advisor that is at least 21 years old. Be advised individuals with excessive weight or certain chronic illnesses will not be allowed to participate.

Equipment

Philmont will provide most of the crew gear required. Participants must furnish clothes, boots, sleeping bag and pad, and rain gear. Your gear must be sturdy and durable. The backpacking gear used by most Scouts is adequate. A complete list of personal equipment will be available from your crew leader at the crew information meeting.

Transportation

The contingent will be traveling as a group via commercial airline to a Rocky Mountain city such as Denver, Colorado and then by chartered bus to Philmont.

Fitness

Every participant needs to be in shape for Philmont! Steep rocky trails with 1000-ft climbs are common. Also there is 25% less oxygen in the air at Philmont elevations. Thin air coupled with 70 miles of trail and a 45-pound pack means a rigorous exercise program is imperative to a successful expedition. All participants should begin jogging, running up-hill, hiking with a full pack and other aerobic exercise. Start slowly and gradually increase the duration of your exercise. Please consult with your physician before beginning any new exercise program. You will find that getting in shape for Philmont will work better if you use the buddy system. Being in top physical shape will make your Philmont experience more enjoyable and lessen the chance of injury or medical problems.

Crew Preparation

In early April the contingent will be formed into 5 or 6 crews of between 7 and 12 members (scouts and advisors). Each crew has at least 2, but no more than 4 adult advisors. Crews are formed based on unit membership, geographic proximity, and personal preference. An informational meeting for crew participants and parents will be held to provide detailed information and answer questions about equipment, physical fitness, logistics and other details of the trek. Each crew will select their own itinerary at Philmont and develop a crew training schedule. Expect the training schedule to include at least two shakedown backpacking trips to practice the Philmont methods and techniques. Training for crew leaders and advisors on topics specific to Philmont expeditions will be held in the fall. Additional materials to support planning and training will be provided to each crew.

Cost

The cost includes Philmont fees, airfare, bus charter, and meals in route. Because reservation and transportation fees are paid throughout the year, participant fees are not refundable, but are fully transferable to an alternate participant. Equipment costs depend upon how well a participant is currently outfitted and whether the participant is still outgrowing clothes and equipment. Crew members should have $20 of spending money in the back country. Participants may want spending money while traveling and to purchase souvenirs.

Ready to sign up? And use this printable Philmont Fact Sheet to help recruit a crew of your friends.

For more information, contact the Expeditions Director.