Becker Boy Scouts Ben S. and Chris K. joined other Boy Scouts from Central Minnesota on a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, NM, June 16-27.  

 

The group of 10 Scouts and two adults spent 12 days covering 73 miles backpacking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  

 

During this trek, they climbed Big Red (11,020 feet), participated in a challenge course, learned about survival in the old west and spent a day performing trail maintenance so future scouters are able to take advantage of this ranch.

 

Philmont Scout Ranch is located near the town of Cimarron and covers 140,177 acres (219 sq mi; 567 km²) of wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of the Rocky Mountain Range. Donated by oil baron Waite Phillips, the ranch is owned and operated by the Boy Scouts of America. It is a National High Adventure Base where crews of Scouts and Venturers take part in backpacking treks and other outdoor activities. 

 

By land area, it is one of the largest youth camps in the world. 

 

During the season, between June 8 and August 22, an estimated 22,000 Scouts and adult leaders backpack through the Ranch's extensive backcountry. More than 1,130 seasonal staff are responsible for the ranch's summer operations.