Many older Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Explorers and Venturers consider high adventure the highlight of their outdoor Scouting experience. Older youth seek out these programs; it’s what keeps them involved in Scouting. High adventure challenges and inspires them—and their leaders—and broadens the appeal of Scouting. This is why Scoutmasters and Advisors must make high-adventure opportunities a priority, promoting participation by unit members who are qualified for these elite outdoor activities.
High adventure often transcends conventional Scouting activities. High adventure includes things like: bicycle touring, caving, horse packing, mountain biking, rafting, rappelling, rock climbing, sailing, scuba diving, skiing and snowboarding.
The best high-adventure treks are planned, led, and carried out by youth. The purpose of Scouting is to help youth grow and mature and learn how to be prepared.
The Boy Scouts of America runs several high adventure bases including:
- Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron, New Mexico
- Norther Tier in Northern Minnesota, Northwest Ontario and Northeast Manitoba
- Florida Sea Base in the Florida Keys and Great Abaco Island, Bahamas
- Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia.
Of special note is the fact that Patriots’ Path Council has created a program aimed at preparing Scouts for a trip to Philmont.
Patriots’ Path Council’s Trail to Philmont
The Watchu Experience is an 18-month-long program of teenage high adventure, capped by a backpacking trek at Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron, New Mexico. It is the nation’s best Philmont preparation program and has been featured in Scouting magazine.
Established in 1939, Philmont Scout Ranch has been called “Scouting’s Paradise” in New Mexico. It encompasses more than 137,000 acres in the Sangre de Cristo Range of the Rocky Mountains where elevations range from 6,500 ft to more than 12,000 ft
Patriots’ Path Council, through our program run by experienced Philmonters, makes it easier than ever to be a part of this unique and exciting Boy Scout high adventure program.
Beginning Jan. 1 of each year, groups of 8-12 people may apply. Individuals may apply at any time. Applications are available December. The Watchu Mountain Adventure weekend caps your training. Find out more at watchu.org. And see the Philmont YouTube channel for more videos.