As Scouting America continues to inspire youth through adventure, leadership, and service, we take a moment to reflect on Eagle Scouts, high adventure, and the vital role of trained leaders in shaping the Scouting experience. This year also marks a significant milestone—the 75th anniversary of the Philmont Training Center (PTC), a cornerstone of adult leader development in Scouting.
A Legacy of Adventure and Leadership
When all the right elements come together, the impact is undeniable. Take Troop 33 of Takoma Park, Maryland, for example. Since its founding in 1920, the troop has produced 190 Eagle Scouts, a testament to the strength of its program.
In 2009, then-Scoutmaster David Lanar, a 2015 NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award (NOESA) recipient, reflected on what made his own Scouting experience in Southern California memorable—the adventure. Determined to challenge both younger and older Scouts, he structured a program that combined year-round camping, summer camp at Chester County Council’s Camp Horseshoe, and a series of high-adventure trips for older Scouts.
The results speak for themselves. Since 2010, Troop 33 has sent six crews with 53 Scouts to the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Of those, 38 went on to earn the rank of Eagle—a remarkable 71% success rate. With six adult Eagle Scouts guiding them along the way, the troop has built a strong foundation of leadership and mentorship.
Why Does This Matter?
Retention is one of the greatest challenges in Scouting. Lord Baden-Powell designed Scouting with a system where older, experienced Scouts mentor younger ones, a principle that thrives in a Scout-led troop. When older Scouts remain engaged, troops stay Scout-led rather than adult-led, ensuring a more enriching experience for all.
So how do we keep older Scouts engaged? The answer is an active, adventure-filled program. Troops that consistently offer high-adventure activities often retain Scouts longer. A well-structured, exciting program fosters leadership, teamwork, and personal growth—core elements of the Scouting experience.
Training: The Key to Success
A great program starts with trained leaders. Since 1950, the Philmont Training Center (PTC) has served as Scouting America’s National Training Center, equipping volunteers and professionals with the tools to lead effectively. Offering week-long training conferences from June through September, PTC provides invaluable development for council, district, and unit volunteers, Scouting America professionals, and youth leaders.
For youth, Philmont also hosts the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE), reinforcing the importance of leadership training in a high-adventure setting.
Beyond Philmont: Other High-Adventure Opportunities
If Philmont isn’t the right fit for your troop, Scouting America offers other incredible high-adventure options, each providing a unique challenge:
- Florida Sea Base – Nautical adventures including coral reef sailing, offshore fishing, and underwater exploration.
- Northern Tier – Wilderness canoeing expeditions in Northern Minnesota and Canada, plus winter camping adventures.
- Summit Bechtel Reserve – High-energy activities like BMX, skateboarding, mountain biking, zip lines, challenge courses, and climbing.
Put It All Together: Train, Plan, and Take Action
The formula for success is clear: trained leaders plus exciting programs equals engaged Scouts. If you haven’t completed your training, now is the time. If your troop hasn’t yet explored a high-adventure base, consider planning a trip—it makes a lasting difference in the lives of Scouts.
Adventure, leadership, and mentorship—when combined, they transform the Scouting journey into something truly extraordinary.
Additional Information
Source websites
For Scoutmaster Dave Lanar it’s about the outdoors and being open to all (Nov 2011)
Notes on High Adventure
Notes on Troop 33 Philmont Photos
| 2022 | 2019 | 2017 | 2015 | 2012 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 714-C01 714-C02 |
712-G | 719-J | 701-I | 719-S | 629-G2 |
Eagle/participant breakdown
| 2022 | 2019 | 2017 | 2015 | 2012 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9/11 | 9/12 | 4/8 | 6/9 | 5/7 | 5/6 (3 multiples) |
| 38/53 = 71% | |||||
