
The time to sign up for the 2026 version of one of Scouting’s most epic experiences is now.
Building character, learning to work as a team and becoming a leader: Everything that’s awesome about Scouting is encapsulated at Philmont Scout Ranch.
Philmont, one of Scouting America’s four national high-adventure bases, offers a variety of programs designed to give Scouts, Venturers and Sea Scouts the opportunity to explore 214 square miles of rugged northern New Mexico wilderness. There are backpacking treks and horseback cavalcades, along with extreme sports such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and range and target activities.
There are also training opportunities, a really cool museum and the chance for the whole family to experience one of the most gorgeous backcountry areas in North America.
Watch the video below to learn more about Philmont — including how to sign up for the 2026 season — and read on for more details.
What’s the big deal about Philmont?
Oh, it’s just the adventure of a lifetime, that’s all.
Philmont is known for its backpacking. It offers 7-, 9- and 12-day treks and horseback rides.
Those participating as individuals can sign up for longer treks.
“It is a journey of learning about yourself and others,” says Cassidy Lathrom, who attended Philmont as a member of Venturing Crew 2052 in Lawrence, Kansas. “It’s a journey of excellence and bettering yourself. It’s definitely difficult, but that’s what makes it worth it.
“That’s where the lessons come from.”
Click here to begin the reservation process for 2026 12-day, 9-day, 7-day and horseback treks.
Can’t fit a Philmont trek into your summer plans? No problem. There’s also an Autumn Adventure, Winter Adventure and other offseason programs.
What is Philmont Training Center?
Want to learn to be a better Scout leader? A better Scout? A better person overall? Philmont Training Center has a course for you.
If you’re a parent taking a class at the PTC, your family can enjoy a variety of Philmont activities led by the Philmont staff.
Take your Cub Scout leadership training to the next level with separate sessions for pack leadership and den leadership.
Learn how to identify, connect and engage BSA alumni at alumni relations training.
Interested in planning or attending an international Scouting event? There’s a conference for that.
What is Family Adventure Camp?
On any given summer day, there are around 3,500 Scouts BSA members and Venturers exploring the Philmont wilderness, testing themselves both physically and mentally, and making memories in the process that will last a lifetime.
Somewhere much closer, a toddler pets a small animal. A Cub Scout – 6 years old — rides a pony. Another Cub Scout, 8, goes on an hour-and-a-half-long horseback ride.
This is Family Adventure Camp.
In the dining hall, a husband and wife celebrate their 50th anniversary with their friends and family at their sides.
In another building, a group of seven siblings and their spouses enjoy a family reunion with a round of games such as Yahtzee and dominoes.
On the front porch of a villa, a group of ladies — all in their 60s — sip iced tea.
In the crafts area, a young boy makes his own neckerchief slide. He enjoys it so much he’ll come back later to make his own belt.
On a nearby trail, a group of families and children are making the 5-mile round-trip hike to Lover’s Leap, one of the most iconic spots on the entire property. Other families are hiking the Urraca Trail loop, while still others challenge themselves at the Tooth of Time, one of Philmont’s most popular sights.
“We had the option as a family of deciding what we wanted to do,” says Jen Lawrence, a Scoutmaster from Texas who traveled to Philmont with her husband and two young children. “We could sign up for riflery in the morning. Then we’d decide in the afternoon to go fishing. Or we might say, ‘Let’s go horseback riding.’
“You just sign up and then get out there and do it.”
Photo by W. Garth Dowling
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