Has anyone been to the Boy Scout's Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico(?)? My son wants to go this summer, and I know the scouts have put thousands of people through the scout program at Philmont, but still...

What do they do there besides hike in the desert with a 50 lb. pack? I can't see the thrill of walking through desert with snakes and tarantulas in the middle of the summer. But there must be something that brings thousands each year. Can anyone enlighten me? Also, should I be worried about any of the above?
Thanks for your help.

I haven't been to the camp by driven by it and will tell you that this part of New Mexico is not dessert. Yes, it is more arid than the eastern part of the U.S. but does have trees, grass, water, etc. It is pretty close to Angel Fire Ski Resort and lots of people go there in the summer for vacations.

I was not fortunate enough to have the moeny necessary to travel to and attend camp at Philmont when I was a Scout (I was raised in central NY state and went to camp in the Adirondacks). I'm sure that they teach desert survival skills in addition to other things (many Scouts who go there are older and more advanced Scouts - IMHO he will have a chance to learn more advanced outdoor skills). It's possible that they also teach orienteering (how to find your way through wilderness with only a map and compass - we never had a chance to learn this at my camp). The few Scouts in my trop who went to Philmont spoke of it in glowing, almost reverential terms. I also think that a major appeal is the fellowshipping and networking - he'll have a chance to meet and spend time with like minded fellows from every part of the country. As for tarantulas and other imagined dangers - not to be concerned. Let him go - may turn out to be one of the very memorable experiences of his adolescence.

My brother and my husband have both been to Philmont. It was definitely no desert. My husband went as an adult leading a group of boys. Yes, it was hot, backbreaking, exhausting, etc, but an experience of a lifetime. Although I might be a little worried, like any normal mom, I wouldn't hesitate to send my son there.

I reply to this message as one of the thousands of people that have had the good fortune to complete a trek at Philmont, New Mexico, having done so in July, 2003.

This was indeed a life-changing experience, that anyone should grab - adult and youth alike - if they have the opportunity.

This is not a "hike through the desert." Our trek spanned an elevation from 6700 feet (yes, this was desert) to a height of 12,441 feet where we had a snowball fight on July 7th and shivered in 42 degree weather. Don't think New Mexico, but envision Colorado mountains.

Upon return I have likened this effort to going to a theme park, where staff is in character and costume 24/7,but where you have to hike through a National Park-like setting to get from one attraction to another. Our trek spanned 73 miles.

I was forced to train for a year and a half to get into shape, but would gladly repeat the effort to return!

Rustymautner

For Boy Scouts, a trip to Philmont is the ultimate in "male bonding" experiences, and it will be something your son will remember for a lifetime. Make sure he is in good shape when he leaves, and make sure he brings a camera!

My husband and oldest son went to Philmont the summer before last. Both consider the ten days there ten of the best they've ever spent anywhere. They claim that the photos, which are gorgeous, don't do justice to the scenery. Next June I'll be trekking in Philmont with my two oldest sons, for the ultimate femle-male bonding experience. We'll train by hiking the Georgia section of the Appalachian trail. Be sure your son is prepared for the physical activity and the altitude. The troop should provide plenty of physical, safety, and environmental training before making the trip. The BSA has a web page with lots of information on Philmont.