6/16/12-7/1/12
Two crews, each with 8 Scouts and 4 adult leaders, went on a life changing summer trek through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. Philmont covers 214 square miles of vast wilderness with trails that climb from 6,500 feet to as high as 12,441 feet. During our trek, we hiked 85 miles over 12 days.

It was an incredible experience for the boys as will as the adult advisers.  Low humidity accompanied 80-95 degree temperature days as we backpacked through the vast territory starting at Ponil in the North Country all the way westward to Baldy Mountain (12,441 feet) and then traveling southward through Visto Grande, Webster Park (dry camp), and down to Rayado.

There were some medical issues with three members of the two crews, but after some time at the health lodge at base camp, they were able to rejoin the crews and finish the hike.  Because of the high altitude, we had to stay hydrated, watch out for severe sun burn, and take as many breaks as needed to catch our breath in the lower oxygen area.

Each crew needed to carry not only their own personal items in their backpacks but enough food for three to four days, four liters of water, tents, pots, cleaning supplies, stoves, crew first aid kit, dining fly, bear bags, and bear ropes. The average backpack weighed from 45-60 lbs before hitting the trail.

We enjoyed beautiful vistas of far-reaching countryside, team building inside our crews, contributed to the tradition of Philmont by working on conservation projects, and appreciated all that Philmont has to offer as the mecca of Scouting in America.

After our blisters are healed, the Philmont tan washed away and the dust no longer in our noses, many will look back at the amazing time had in New Mexico and dream of going back someday soon.

Mansfield News Journal Article - www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/article/20120704/NEWS01/207040305/Scouts-from-St-Peter-s-enjoy-New-Mexico-adventure