Troop 321 has epic adventure at Philmont Scout Ranch

By Guest Columnist Tommy Carroll

Troop 321 at Base Camp before hitting trail. Pictured (l to r) are Eagle Scout Chase Cockrell, Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) and Chief Crew Advisor Austin Wilson, ASM Shannon Dressler, ASM Bill Elenbaas, Scout Max Elenbaas-14, ASM Roger Heard, Scout Ishan Kalluru, Senior Patrol Leader and Crew Chief Nate Pyron, Scout Patrick Ryan, ASM Rachel Ryan, Eagle Scout Addison Carroll and ASM Jason Pyron.

Boy Scout Troop 321 from Long Beach recently returned from an unforgettable seven-day trek through the rugged wilderness of Philmont Scout Ranch, Scouting America’s premier high-adventure base in New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Covering over 140,000 acres of breathtaking terrain, the troop’s journey, which began at Zastrow Landing, tested their skills, teamwork and resilience, while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The adventure kicked off with the Scouts, ranging in age from 14 to 17 and adult leaders as young as 20, gathering their gear and setting out into the backcountry. Their itinerary included a mix of challenging hikes, hands-on activities, and immersive experiences that showcased the rich history and natural beauty of Philmont.

Troop 321 embraced the self-reliance that Philmont demands, preparing their own trail meals each day. From hearty stews to creative campfire concoctions, the Scouts honed their backcountry cooking skills, learning to balance nutrition and flavor putting their previous training to work.

“Cooking our own meals made us feel independent,” said Addison Carroll, 16. “It was tedious to begin with, but we knew that we needed to cook if we wanted to eat, so we did it.”

“Performing the chores, such as setting up bear bags, dining fly and cooking, was tedious but essential,” agreed Ishaan Kalluru, 15.

The troop’s journey was not just a test of physical endurance, but a profound bonding experience that united Scouts and leaders alike. As they navigated the rugged trails and faced the challenges head-on, the camaraderie among them grew stronger each day.

One of the remarkable aspects of their adventure was the opportunity to engage in diverse activities that enriched their experience. Early on, a refreshing stop at Abreu Campground provided a much-needed break with root beer at the camp’s cantina, a testament to the small joys that make the arduous journey worthwhile.

Max Elenbaas, a 15-year-old scout, summed it up perfectly: “The root beer was delicious and worth the hike.”

Their trek was punctuated with thrilling and educational activities that brought the rich history of the region to life. Engaging in a black powder rifle shooting program at one of Philmont’s staffed camps allowed them to connect with the Old West, guided by expert staff. The activity was particularly memorable for Patrick Ryan, 14, who shared, “Black rifle shooting was my favorite. My grandpa gave me one not too long ago, and I haven’t been able to shoot it yet. This gave me an opportunity to shoot one.”

Another highlight was their visit to a blacksmith station, where they collaborated on forging a unique metal project, showcasing their teamwork and creativity. Nate Pyron, 14, reflected, “The troop was able to develop a common idea and actually turn it into a physical project by working together.”

Evenings brought the troop together for Philmont’s iconic campfire productions, where staff and Scouts shared songs, stories and skits under the starry New Mexico sky. These gatherings, held at camps like Crater Lake or Beaubien, celebrated the spirit of Scouting and the lore of the Old West, leaving the troop inspired and bonded.

“Singing songs about the Tooth of Time at Crater Lake Camp while the sun was setting was my favorite part,” added Chase Cockrell, 17.

During their adventure, Troop 321 also had a memorable stop at Black Mountain Camp, where they engaged in a spirited game of baseball. Nestled in the serene wilderness, the camp’s rustic field provided an idyllic setting for the Scouts to unwind and bond over America’s favorite pastime. The crack of the bat on the “baseball” made from a rock wrapped in duct tape echoed through the trees as they played, their laughter and cheers filling the air. The game was not just a test of their athletic skills, but also an opportunity to strengthen their teamwork and camaraderie.

The trek’s most dramatic moment came during a challenging hike along an exposed ridge known as Tooth Ridge, Philmont’s iconic mountain. Here, Troop 321 was caught in a sudden monsoon storm. Pelted by hail and surrounded by the crackle of nearby lightning, the Scouts had nowhere to take cover at first.

As the hail was coming down and formed a carpet under their feet, scout Addison Carroll began belting out the camp song “Popsico” at the top of his lungs, and the other scouts joined in, reducing the tension felt by all.

Immediately upon exiting the ridge, they quickly put their lightning avoidance training to use. Following Philmont’s rigorous safety protocols, they spread out, crouched low, and avoided high points to minimize risk.

“It was a dangerous situation, and I am glad we made it off that ridge”, said Assistant Scoutmaster Jason Pyron.

Scoutmaster Tommy Carroll said, “The lightning training we practiced gave us confidence and helped calm our nerves in an incredibly scary situation.”

Max Elenbaas added, “the storm was my toughest scouting experience so far!”

Philmont Scout Ranch, established in 1938 by oil magnate Waite Phillips, has hosted over one million Scouts since its inception. Troop 321’s adventure included iconic landmarks like the Grizzly Tooth and views of the Tooth of Time, as well as programs that blended adventure with education. From learning about homesteading at Abreu to practicing conservation techniques, the Scouts gained a deeper appreciation for the land and its history.

Reflecting on the trek, Scout Nate Pyron said, “There is a reason they call it heaven on Earth, and it just makes you want to go back.”

Max Elenbaas, 15, said, “Philmont wasn’t the toughest hike that we have had, but it was incredibly memorable. I’ll never forget it.”

Assistant Scoutmaster Austin Wilson added, “This trip was about more than just hiking—it was about leadership, teamwork and growing as Scouts. I’m incredibly proud of Troop 321.”

As they returned home, the Scouts of Troop 321 carried with them not only souvenirs and memories of root beer at Abreu, but also a renewed sense of resilience and camaraderie. Their Philmont adventure, filled with challenges and triumphs, will undoubtedly shape their Scouting journey for years to come.

For more information about Philmont Scout Ranch and its programs, visit www.philmontscoutranch.org.