Local Boy Scouts Hiked Through N. Mexico's Wilderness

A group of Babylon Village's teenage Boy Scouts and their leaders went on a life-changing summer trek through Colorado and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch, in Cimarron, New Mexico.

During their trek, these Scouts from throughout Suffolk County – including East Islip, Babylon, Greenlawn and Stony Brook – hiked over 71 miles while summiting 3 peaks in 12 days on the trail. 

“This is the ultimate Scouting High Adventure Camp and it surely lived up to its reputation of excitement, challenges and accomplishment,” said Eric Hansen, Scout Master of Troop 1 in Babylon and an experienced Philmont Scouter.

The group of Scouts and their two adult Advisors carried everything they needed to survive during the trek on their back while hiking from camp to camp; the packs often exceeded 50 pounds for each scout.

The group participated in backcountry programs along the way including rock climbing, black powder rifle shooting and gold prospecting.

The trek included a conservation project where the Scouts learned and participated in the upkeep of Philmont’s ecosystem. Along the way, Scouts endured tough challenges including backpacking in bear and mountain lion territory, steep climbs, and inclement weather such as three-inch hail.