Flooded trails, washed-out bridges extend Stamford scouts’ backpacking trip
STAMFORD — Members of Troop 15 Stamford traveled to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico for a 61-mile backpacking trek that turned into a 75-mile hike instead.
The boys and adult leaders on the trip were faced with side hikes and detours because of flooded trails and washed-out bridges, according to Lee Bowbeer, who was one of those on the adventure.
“Every hiker carried everything he needed for two weeks, including food, water, clothing and shelter,” Bowbeer wrote in his report.
According to Bowbeer, “Philmont is one of four High Adventure bases owned and operated by Scouts BSA. It is often considered the pinnacle of a scout’s experience in the youth-led program, as it tests the boys’ scout skills of orienteering, camping, first aid, and much more.
“Each day, crews are tasked with hiking 5-12 miles to the next day’s camp, where they participate in various activities, including rifle and shotgun shooting, panning for gold, spar pole climbing, burro packing and challenge course initiatives. Many camps feature staff members portraying characters from the Old West, and each night there are campfire programs with songs from yesteryear.
“Along the way, crews must navigate their route using a map and compass and traverse everything from steep rocky climbs to knee deep stream crossings,” Bowbeer wrote.
The crews hit the summit of Mount Baldy, which stands at 12,441 feet, during the trip.
According to Bowbeer, Troop 15 planned the trip to Philmont for more than three years. The original date — summer 2020 — was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“That the trip occurred in 2021 is a testament to the troop’s perseverance and PSR’s commitment to keeping scouts safe. All COVID procedures were followed while the groups were in basecamp and whenever they came
into contact with other units along the trail,” Bowbeer wrote.
Bowbeer said Troop 15 Stamford is looking for interested new members, boys ages 11-17. The troop meets every week on Wednesday evenings at Temple Sinai, with a camping trip every month. This year’s outdoor activities are planned to include white water rafting, winter camping and rock climbing, among other activities.