Troop 319 sent two crews to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico from July 9-July 24. The troop participates in this high adventure trek every other summer. Scouts must be experienced backpackers to hike a grand total of 113 miles in 11 days. They carry their food and water and the essentials for survival in the back country of northern New Mexico.

This year’s itinerary included black-powder rifle shooting, horseback riding, spar pole climbing, conservation work, burro packing and learning about the Westward Movement. Though Scouts are accompanied by adult leaders, the boys take on leadership positions, such as crew chief, wilderness guide and chaplain’s aid and help each other navigate over miles of untouched wilderness and climb to elevations of 12,440 feet. This is an experience Scouts will carry with them for the rest of their lives.