RE: [Philmont] Re: A big THANK YOU... and a few more questions.

I believe Philmont recommends first-timers select a typical or rugged-rated
itinerary at most. You can always do extra side hikes or take an alternate,
longer route to make an easier trek more challenging, but you can't simplify
a difficult trek.

The easier treks leave more room for flexibility. On a difficult trek
you'll have a lot of time committed to hiking. With the shorter/easier
hiking days of a typical trek it's easier to fit in program activities or
spend more time at them. You'll have more of a chance to reschedule around
bad weather or when program time slots are booked by other crews. You'll
likely have a sister crew (another crew on the same itinerary) and time for
fellowship with them. Plus more time to "smell the roses".

As previously mentioned, mental preparation is a big thing. A lot of
teenagers are in great physical shape, but few crews have a lot of
experience backpacking for 10 consecutive days in the types of conditions
that exist at Philmont (terrain, elevation, climate, weather, etc.). A lot
of mental toughness is needed plus the ability to work well together and
adapt to the unexpected challenges thrown at you.

 -- Jeff

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Jeffrey W. Knoll
Grand Canyon Council
Phoenix, AZ
'02 627-H1 Trek 26
'04 610-D Trek 31

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Received on Fri Sep 3 19:18:23 2004