Philmont and the Backpacking MB

[Scott in Atlanta]

Can anyone provide guidance about using a Philmont crew's experience to meet requirements of the Backpacking merit badge? Specifically, can the "BP" MB's 30-mile trip and one or two of the shorter trips be accomplished by an 11-day, 60+ mile trek at Philmont? What about the "BP" MB requirement that the Scout plan the trip - does that prevent use of a Philmont trek, because Philmont provides the route? Thanks.

[jr56]

You would have to have the boys taking the trek contact a Backpacking merit badge counselor and discuss the topic with them. That decision is strictly up to the merit badge counselor.

[Chief J]

Agree, this is strictly up to the MB Counselor.

Two years ago, I had a Scout go to Philmont, and between the Philmont Treks and the conditioning hikes they took in the 12 months prior to going to Philmont, the Trek Leader (Who is also a BP MB Counselor) signed off on the blue cards for the merit badge.

Chief J

[pipestone1991]

^^mmmmmI've been to Philmont, and I'd have to say no simply because the merit badge states 3 different trips....but look on the bright side....you can earn the mb on your prectice hikes!