Scoutmaster Musings

Yes, it DOES rain at Philmont! We just got back from our 12 day trek and half the days were rain. But, other than that, it was a most excellent adventure.
8 scouts and 3 adults did Trek #12 that covered 65 miles with about 15 miles of side hikes thrown in. We made the top of Trail Peak to see the bomber wreckage and the top of Shaefer's Peak for some terrific views. The last morning, we climbed Tooth of Time and it was just as fun as everyone says.
Our ranger, Wade Hawkins from Atlanta, was a great help on the first couple days and he did a good job of explaining the Philmont way of backpacking with advice about bear danger, lightning, campsites, food clean-up, Leave No Trace, and other common concerns.
We saw no bears or cougars, but did see mini-bears, deer, turkey, grouse, burros, horses, cows, and crows.
We participated in blackpowder shooting, branding, blacksmithing, goldpanning, horseback riding, and rock-climbing. We ate a chuckwagon dinner and took a mine tour.

Now, we've all got our arrowhead patches and memories of wet trails hiked, crunchy meals eaten, and challenges conquered - until next time.

Scout On!

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