[Philmont] How to bring a new troop up to speed on camping / backpacking

Just start by camping. While I agree that there is much to be learned about
the topic of backpacking, the vast majority of what you will be doing at
Philmont is camping. The best way to learn is by doing.

Our troop camps every month. Since we are going to Philmont in August we
are in "Philmont mode". Weekend packs are what they will take in their base
pack - and limited to 25 pounds. Meals follow the Philmont outline. We
teach turkey bag cooking using 2 4-quart pots and two MSR Whisperlites.

Partners are chosen and camp is set up roughly like Philmont including
staggered tents and the team tarp. Honestly, this does not deviate much
from our standard camping process as it keeps us trained for our annual high
adventure trips.

While we do some hiking, we work more on pack fit, packing and setting up
and living in camp. We have found that little physical conditioning is
needed for our scouts. Most are in multiple sports and the average day on
the trail at Philmont offer little they can't handle. Adult leaders are
another issue all together. We strongly recommend walking, steppers and
walking with their packs.

Also remember there are a tremendous number of very good books that can
provide you guidance as your bring up a new troop and grow your
camping/hiking/high adventure program. Some of my favorites are:

The Complete Walker (now on the IV addition) - Colin Fletcher

Beyond Backpacking - a solid introduction to lightweight backpacking - Ray
Jardine

A Walking in the Woods - Bill Bryson (funny read and a good intro on some
less than solid techniques).

There are any number on distance hiking and cover the PCT, Continental
Divide and Appalachian Trail. All of these provide good insight to what
works and what doesn't.

However, nothing beats experience. Camp every month with your troop. Teach
them how to stay warm, dry, cool, comfortable. Teach them how to tent, how
to use a tarp, the wonder of just sleeping under the stars. There is no
substitute to doing - get out there and have fun.

Bill Keller

Troop 47

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Received on Wed Dec 19 00:07:19 2007