Last summer, two Scout Troops from Mantua took on the challenge of Philmont High Adventure at Philmont Scout Ranch in the rugged northern New Mexico wilderness.
One well-known motto of scouting is to ‘Be Prepared,’ and the Mantua Scouts really took this sentiment to heart. A trip of this magnitude required over two years of planning, training, and fundraising before they ever loaded their backpacks.
According to Troop 575 Scoutmaster Scott Morse, “The trip went as good as we could have hoped for. We had beautiful weather, no blisters, and no complaints,” Morse marveled. The high point for many was the view they earned at the top of Baldy Mountain, at 12,441 feet, the highest peak within Philmont Scout Ranch.
The group had anticipated hiking 65 miles over the course of their trip. However, the time spent training and preparing for the adventure was put to the test, as they ended up logging 110 miles without issue. That preparation paid off not only for the Scouts; Troop 575’s 19-year-old Troop Advisor, Jake was recruited to work at Philmont next summer. The Ohio Northern University student is excited to share his love of the outdoors and of scouting with others. Over one million Scouts and advisors have visited Philmont since its first season in 1939, experiencing more than 214 square miles of rugged northern New Mexico wilderness.
Over the course of their trip, several scouts had the opportunity to hone their leadership skills. Brenton and Bridget served as Scout leaders and were recognized for their wayfinding skills in guiding their troops back from the trek safely. Matt and Piper provided inspiration as Chaplain’s Aides, while Sam and Raylenn ensured the campers practiced leaving no trace as the troop’s Wilderness Gurus. Additional awards were given to Piper, Sam, and Hans for learning and reciting the poem “If,” by Rudyard Kipling from memory.
Scouts between the ages of 14-18 have the opportunity to participate in one of several high adventure excursions including Philmont. Other treks include New River Trek in West Virginia, Northern Tier Trek in northern Minnesota and Canada, and Sea Base in Florida.
Shortly after celebrating the successful summer journey, the troop began plans for a Sea Base adventure in Florida two years from now. There’s no doubt this hard-working troop will be well-prepared.
If adventures like this appeal to you or a young person you know, visit beascout.org.
