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This summer, a determined group of local Scouts from the De Soto District of the Natural State Council, Scouting America, completed a backcountry trek at the world-renowned Philmont Scout Ranch in northern New Mexico.
The multi-day expedition tested the crew's physical endurance, leadership, and resilience as they navigated steep ascents, changing weather conditions, and long days carrying full packs through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The youth crew included:
· Alex Bergeron (El Dorado Troop 18) - Chaplain Aide
· Thomas Duncan (Monticello Troop 67)
· Easton Grillo (Camden Troop 6)
· Gavin Grillo (Camden Troop 6)
· Thomas Holland (Monticello Troop 67)
· Landon Parks (El Dorado Troop 18) - Crew Leader
· Nick Reavis (Camden Troop 6)
· Camden Winkenwerder (El Dorado Troop 18) - Wilderness Pledge Guia
The Scouts were accompanied and supported by adult leaders Chris Grillo (Camden), Aidan Grillo (Camden), and Wyatt Winkenwerder (El Dorado).
Throughout the journey, the Scouts summited several of Philmont’s most formidable peaks, including: Mount Phillips, Comanche Peak, and the iconic Tooth of Time. Each high-altitude summit rewarded the crew with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
Beyond the trail, the expedition immersed the youth in unique historical and outdoor programs:
· Cultural & Frontier History: At the Jicarilla Apache Ethnology Program, Scouts learned about indigenous traditions and the tribe's deep connection to the land. They also stepped back into the early 1800s during the Abreu Family Homestead Program, Pioneer Homestead Program, and Taos Trapper Program, exploring frontier survival skills and the history of mountain fur trappers.
· High-Altitude Ranching: The crew experienced the daily operations of mountain life through a High Mountain Ranching program focusing on horsemanship and livestock management.
· Technical Climbing: Scouts honed their technical rock climbing and rappelling skills, building confidence and practicing essential safety procedures on natural rock faces.
The crew also carried out a conservation project that consisted of forest fuel reduction. Navigating the rugged terrain required continuous decision-making, self-reliance, and close collaboration among the Scouts. By pushing through physical limits and supporting one another on the trail, the crew returned home with enhanced leadership skills, lifelong memories, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.
Congratulations to the Scouts and leaders of Camden Troop 6, El Dorado Troop 18, and Monticello Troop 67 on representing the De Soto District with distinction.
