Twenty-three Boy Scouts and 14 adult leaders hiked for 10 days this summer at the Philmont Scout Ranch in the mountains of northern New Mexico.
The Scouts, most of whom attend Mehlville Senior High, are with Troop 824, chartered at Washington Middle School.
The Scouts broke into four separate treks and hiked from 64 to 80 miles over rugged terrain, reaching heights greater than 12,000 feet. Each Scout carried a minimum of 35 pounds along with food and water. Along the way, they participated in such activities as rifle shooting, rock climbing and metalworking.
“It was awesome. To be able to see and share this kind experience with your buddies is just incredible,” stated Greg Lehn, a Mehlville High junior who served as trek leader.