“Troop 126 Scouts can challenge themselves on high adventure trips such as the 7-day trek to Philmont. These trips reinforce all the skills Scouts can learn about backpacking safely to what to do if caught in a lightning storm. The Scouts work as a team to get things done and develop strong leadership skills that become life skills.” –  Scoutmaster 

In early August 2022, two crews led by 20 scouts and adult leaders from Franklin’s BSA Troop 126 completed a rugged, week-long backpacking trip in the Rocky Mountains of northern New Mexico. Scouts aged 15-17 carried all food, water, clothing, shelter, and supporting items while hiking 35 miles through the mountains. They stopped at checkpoints to participate in outdoor activities and to perform conservation project work at Philmont Scout Ranch, a 150,000-acre wilderness backcountry area, one of four high adventure camps run by Boy Scouts of America.

Before arrival at Philmont, the crew stopped at the stunning Red Rocks Amphitheater, watched the Rockies game, toured Denver, and enjoyed ziplining. At Philmont, the scouts went hiking from 7500-11,700 feet of elevation along with activities like rock climbing, blacksmithing, archery, black powder rifle shooting, and exploring the gold mine. They also contributed to the conservation project to build/rehabilitate trail systems for areas damaged by fire in 2018.

The Scouts worked hard for almost 2 years in the making from lottery to participation, to planning and fundraising. They organized fundraisers like crafts, and disc golf tournaments and worked on applications for grants to collect required funds for the trip. Scouts worked on preparation hikes, gear evaluations, travel, and logistics with their adult leaders’ guidance.

If you are curious to learn more about our troop, stop by one of our meetings on Tuesday night (except for the first Tuesday of the month) at the Franklin Elks Lodge between 7 and 8:30 p.m., or email:  [email protected]. Also, visit us @ https://troop126franklin.org/about-us/ , (Facebo