Dear Scouts and Families,
We are thrilled to announce that our lottery application for Philmont Scout Ranch has been selected! This is a premier high-adventure opportunity, and we have been approved for an expedition of three crews, totaling 24 Scouts and 12 adults. If you are looking for the ultimate backpacking challenge in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico, this is it.
We will be holding an in-person meeting for all Scouts and parents interested in claiming a spot for this expedition on Monday, May 4, 2026, right after the Troop meeting. We’ll discuss trek details, estimated costs, and the preparation schedule. In the meantime, here is some basic information, and the basics so you can save the date:
T380 Expedition Details
- Dates: Monday, July 15, 2027 – Saturday, July 27, 2027
- Location: Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, NM
- Participation Requirements: To be eligible for this trek, youth participants must be at least 14 years old, OR Must be 13 years old and have completed the 8th grade.
What is the Philmont 12-Day Trek?
Philmont is often considered the “pinnacle” of the scouting experience. Over the course of 12 days, crews navigate the vast wilderness of the New Mexico Rockies, covering anywhere from 50 to 100+ miles depending on the chosen itinerary.
- The Wilderness: You will carry everything you need on your back, camping in beautiful backcountry sites ranging from 6,500 to over 12,000 feet in elevation.
- The Challenge: It is a true test of leadership and teamwork. Each crew is self-led, meaning the Scouts make the decisions on navigation, camp setup, and daily pacing.
- Staffed Camps: Along the trail, you’ll visit unique “Staffed Camps” where you can participate in activities like blacksmithing, gold mining, rock climbing, and spar pole climbing.
- The Reward: From the sunrise atop the Tooth of Time to the camaraderie built around a backcountry campfire, it is a life-changing experience that builds incredible resilience and confidence.
Don’t miss out on the chance to “Hike the High Country.” We look forward to seeing you there!
Best regards,
Michael Speer
