Trekking High: Troop 5’s Philmont Adventure 2025

This July, 20 Scouts and adult advisors from Troop 5, Maplewood set out on the adventure of a lifetime — a 12-day backpacking trek through Philmont Scout Ranch in the rugged mountains of northern New Mexico. For many, it was the culmination of years of Scouting, training, and teamwork — and for all, it was an unforgettable test of endurance, leadership, and friendship.

The Journey Begins

After months of preparation hikes, gear shakedowns, and fundraising, Troop 5’s crew boarded their flight west with a mix of excitement and nervous energy. From the moment we stepped off the bus in base camp and caught our first glimpse of the Tooth of Time, we knew this wasn’t going to be just another camping trip.

Our trek took us deep into the backcountry, across miles of alpine meadows, pine forests, and rocky ridges. Each day brought new challenges — long climbs, unpredictable weather, and the satisfaction of earning every mile under our own power. Scouts learned to cook in the backcountry, manage their gear, and rely on one another as true trail companions.

Adventure, Challenge, and Conservation

Along the way, we explored some of Philmont’s most memorable backcountry programs — horseback riding, rock climbing, spar pole climbing, wilderness navigation, and conservation work. Riding through Philmont’s open valleys and pine forests was a highlight for many Scouts, offering a new way to experience the ranch’s sweeping landscapes.

We also completed a trail conservation project toward earning the 50-Miler Award, combining service with stewardship of the land we’d grown to love. Every day brought a new test of leadership. Scouts rotated through roles like crew leader, navigator, and chaplain’s aide, discovering how to guide others while balancing teamwork and responsibility. Whether it was setting up camp before an afternoon storm or rerouting around a washed-out trail, each challenge strengthened their confidence and character.

Reaching New Heights

Perhaps the greatest achievement of the trek was our series of summit climbs — five peaks in total, including the breathtaking Mount Phillips at over 12,000 feet. Each summit offered a new perspective on Philmont’s vast wilderness and a powerful reminder of how far we had come together.

Standing on those peaks, looking out across miles of untouched wilderness, every Scout felt a deep sense of accomplishment — not just for reaching the top, but for the teamwork and perseverance it took to get there.

Home with New Purpose

By the time we returned to base camp, dusty and tired but smiling from ear to ear, we were a different crew than the one that began the trek. The Scouts came home stronger — physically, mentally, and spiritually — with memories that will last a lifetime and friendships forged on the trail.

Philmont isn’t just a trip. It’s a journey of growth, grit, and gratitude. Troop 5 is proud of every Scout and advisor who took on the challenge and lived up to the Philmont motto:

“We all made it!”