During this episode we talked with Keith Nelson, the director for Maine High Adventure Base. Maine High Adventure offers exciting, fully-outfitted canoe treks within 4+ million acres of northern Maine woods and waterways. Each and every Maine High Adventure trek is custom designed to the attending group’s interests and skill level. We have been providing life-long memories since 1971, first as a BSA National Council program and more recently as part of Katahdin Area Council, BSA. You can find Maine High Adventure Base at https://www.mainehighadventure.org/. https://www.facebook.com/mainehighadventure, https://www.instagram.com/mainehighadventurebsa/

#mainehighadventure #highadventurescouting #boyscouts #scoutingamerica #katahdinareacouncilbsa #canoeing

Are you Team Chair or Team No Chair. We discuss why you might want to bring a chair to Philmont and why you might leave it at home.

In this edition of the High Adventure Scouting podcast, we explore an alternative to bringing an extra stove for advisor coffee. We explore the idea of using a Toaks Titanium 450ml Cup to heat water for instant coffee at Philmont or other long term backpacking trips.

Toaks Cup – https://www.amazon.com/TOAKS-CUP-450-Titanium-450ml-Cup ($15)

BRS 3000 Stove - https://www.amazon.com/BRS-BRS-3000T-Ultra-Light-Titanium-Miniature/dp/B00NNMF70U/ref=sr_1_1? ($17)

In this edition of the High Adventure Scouting podcast, we talk about bringing a cell phone to Philmont Scout Ranch. We discuss cell signal, taking photos, and GPS navigation. The idea of designating one or two in the crew to take pictures is also discussed.

What is your preference – Flat or inflatable sleeping pads. We discuss the differences and why you might choose flat or inflatable sleeping pads.

Do you use a Nalgene type bottle or a Smart Water bottle, or something else? We discuss the advantages and disadvantages in using either type bottle on a longer backpacking trip like a trek to Philmont Scout Ranch.

I wanted to expand on the items that Adult leaders shouldn’t bring to Philmont. So, on this edition we’ll talk about clothing.

Some leaders will bring too many clothes. My guideline is to follow the Guidebook to Adventure. There is a really good list of items to take to Philmont. Let’s look at the clothing I took on my last trek.

(Snap Fingers)

- Clothing I have on – wicking shirt, breathable zip off pants, socks, underwear

- 2 additional pair of underwear

- 4 pair of socks – you could probably pair that down to 3.

- 2 additional shirts – one long sleeve, one short sleeve

- 1 pair of gym shorts

- Sleep clothes – For me it’s synthetic long underwear. I sleep cold.

- Fleece/Jacket – I didn’t take a fleece as I had a puffy coat on my last trek.

You obviously don’t need a pair of clothes for every day. There are ways to wash your clothes, but when you get into the trek, that won’t become a priority.

So, what did I leave out? Feel free to disagree with my list and add your own in the comments below and make sure to subscribe on all the socials.

I wanted to expand on the items that Adult leaders shouldn’t bring to Philmont. So, on this edition we’ll talk about bringing a separate tent for the adults. On the Philmont Trek Talk Facebook group, this topic creates a lot of discussion on both sides.

Philmont Tent - Philmont will provide 2 person tents as a part of the fees paid. These tents are well used but in great condition. If you have any issues on the trail with a pole, rain fly, tent, you can easily get some kind of replacement. With your own tent, you might not be as lucky.

Footprint in Campsites – Some campsites have ample camping areas, some don’t. I’ve been at several campsites that had limited flat camping spots. Reduce your footprint and take less gear.

Set the Example – Philmont is set up to work in buddies for meals and tents. We had a leader one year that was a big guy, and he tented with our Scoutmaster without a problem. You will have plenty of room to sleep. We expect the Scouts to buddy up, as leaders we should lead by example.

I’ve been backpacking a ton with Scouts, and I will share a tent with another adult. Frankly, I never spend much time in my tent as I’m enjoying the trip and the awesome surroundings.

So, what did I leave out? Feel free to disagree with my list and add your own in the comments below and make sure to subscribe on all the socials.