Those dense crowds, long wait times and expensive ticket prices can take a hike.

This summer, choose the ultimate family vacation. Choose Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Philmont Family Adventure, new for 2018, gives families the chance to experience Philmont however they want. Hike or ride horses, craft or climb rocks, explore or simply enjoy an ice cream cone at the cantina. You and your family will choose your own adventures.

Best part is, you’ll spend the whole week together, as a family. And you’ll do so at Philmont, the BSA’s enchanting high-adventure base in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

What is Philmont Family Adventure?

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the Philmont Scout Ranch like never before.

You and your family will make memories that’ll last a lifetime. The program builds family bonds through exciting and interactive programs.

Who can participate in Philmont Family Adventure?

It’s open to all registered members of the BSA and their families.

What will the weather be like?

Bring your fleece jacket! Average summer highs at Philmont are in the mid-70s, and average lows are around 40.

What activities are available?

The program will use an open-enrollment format where you and your family can choose activities that appeal to you. Some of the choices include:

Inspiration Point Hike: Take a guided hike as a family to a spectacular view on the side of Urraca Mesa. A trail lunch will be provided in lieu of lunch at the dining hall.

Hunting Lodge Hike: Hike as a family from Cimarroncito Turnaround to Hunting Lodge and Window Rock. Enjoy the majestic views from Window Rock looking down on Base Camp and step into the 1940s with a visit to Hunting Lodge, one of Waite Phillips’ original backcountry cabins. Try your hand at fly fishing on Cito Reservoir after a casting lesson from the staff.

Rock Climbing: A daylong session begins with a mild hike from Cimarroncito Turnaround to Cimarroncito Backcountry Staff Camp. Once there, you’ll receive a safety briefing and climbing demonstration followed by a chance to climb several different routes on natural rock.

Philmont Living History Day: Interested in learning about Philmont history from the days of the dinosaur to the present? Begin with a hike to a real Tyrannosaurus rex track. Learn about the petroglyphs of the early American Indian inhabitants of the North Ponil Canyon. Then tour Chase Ranch, where you’ll enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you can tour the Villa Philmonte and/or the Kit Carson Museum at Rayado at your own pace.

Craft Center: The open-program format at the Craft Center allows you to show up for instruction for any of the craft activities offered, including the chance to work with ceramics, wearable art (clothing and accessories), leathercraft, stamp art, Southwestern crafts, and home decor.

Shooting Sports: Learn the fundamentals of archery, slingshots, tomahawks, air guns, .22 rifles and/or shotguns.

COPE: This Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience includes initiative games, trust events, and high and low ropes courses for the whole family. There are elements to challenge individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Horseback Riding: What’s life like for a New Mexico cowboy? Mosey down to Cattle Headquarters, where wranglers will provide an introduction to saddles and tack before taking the group on a trail ride.

Free Time: Your family is not required to attend all of the events. You may choose to relax or even take a day trip on your own into nearby Eagle Nest, Angel Fire, Red River or Taos.

When is Philmont Family Adventure?

Philmont Family Adventure is offered over two weeks. You and your family can stay for the whole week or half of a week.

Full-week options for 2018:

June 24 to 30

July 1 to 7

Half-week options for 2018:

June 24 to 27

June 27 to 30

July 1 to 4

July 4 to 7

How much does it cost?

Philmont Family Adventure costs less than a week at one of those crowded theme parks.

Costs include lodging, food and activities.

Full-week costs, 2018:

Adult: $350 each

Children/youth: $150 each

Mountain trek: $430 each

Half-week costs, 2018:

Adult: $215 each

Children/youth: $100 each

Where do I learn more and register?

Find a daily schedule, a flier to share with your fellow Scout leaders and more at this link.