Local Scouts Complete Trek at New Mexico's Philmont Ranch

GOLDENS BRIDGE, N.Y. - Early Monday morning, a group of dedicated young adventurers from the Greater Hudson Valley Council returned home after completing an arduous 12-day trek at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. The crew, consisting of male and female scouts aged 14-17 from Westchester, Duchess, Hudson, and Rockland Counties, successfully navigated Itinerary 12-11, a 60-mile conservation trek that earned them the prestigious 50-Miler Award.

Leading the crew was Marc D., a rising Fox Lane 11th grader and assistant Senior Patrol Leader of Goldens Bridge Troop 154, whose leadership, experience, and determination were instrumental in guiding the Scouts through the challenges of the trek. Marc’s role as crew leader was made even more notable by the fact that the majority of the Scouts had undergone National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) before embarking on this adventure. NYLT is a rigorous program designed to teach scouts leadership skills, problem-solving, and the ability to work effectively in a team - qualities that were put to the test throughout their journey.

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However, their trek covered more than just the designated 60 miles; by the end of the journey, they had hiked over 80 miles through the rugged and breathtaking wilderness of the Philmont Scout Ranch. This was no ordinary hike; the Scouts tackled numerous challenges, from traversing steep mountain passes to enduring a hailstorm while summiting Mt. Phillips, which stands at an impressive 11,742 feet. Along their trek, they were able to try their hand at muzzle loading rifles, spar pole climbing, natural rock climbing, and blacksmithing.
One of the key components of their trek was the completion of 10 hours of conservation work, during which the Scouts contributed to vital environmental projects. They built several beaver dam analogs, an essential task in preserving the area's natural water systems and played a significant role in constructing a new trail around the iconic Tooth of Time, a peak that holds a special place in the history of Philmont and Scouting.

The Scouts spent over a year preparing for this journey, training extensively to ensure they were ready to face the challenges that awaited them. Their NYLT training, combined with their rigorous preparation, paid off as they demonstrated remarkable resilience, teamwork, and leadership throughout the trek. Under Marc’s guidance, they skillfully navigated the rugged terrain, overcame unexpected obstacles, and worked together to ensure the safety and success of the entire crew.

The experience at Philmont was more than just a test of physical endurance; it was an opportunity for these young scouts to grow, learn, and contribute to the preservation of one of America's most treasured wilderness areas. Their successful completion of the trek and the conservation work they performed will leave a lasting impact on Philmont Scout Ranch, as well as on the Scouts themselves, who have returned home with a deep sense of accomplishment and pride.

The Greater Hudson Valley Council crew's adventure at Philmont Scout Ranch is a testament to the values of Scouting, including preparation, perseverance, and service to others. As they return to their communities, these Scouts bring back not only stories of their journey but also the confidence and skills that will serve them well in all their future endeavors.

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Interested in learning more about Scouting, leadership and high adventure? Consider joining a local Scout troop like Goldens Bridge Troop 154 ( www.troop154.org ) for boys or Lewisboro/Katonah Troop 301 ( www.kl-troop301.org ) for girls. Explore the great outdoors, learn valuable skills, and embark on exciting adventures with fellow Scouts in your area. Check out the troops nearest you today at www.beascout.scouting.org

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