Role of a Philmont Ranger

As I reflect back, this post is WAY overdue! I guess I was so excited to become a Ranger and then to actually spend the time being a Ranger, that I neglected to consider that not everyone understands what a Ranger is or what a Ranger does.

So let me try to distill this awesome role into a blog. Apologies if I overdo it, I’m sure I will.

To start, I should probably talk briefly about Philmont Scout Ranch, which is I where got the opportunity to be a Ranger, a Philmont Ranger. According to Microsoft CoPilot, Philmont is:

“…a large youth camp located in the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains in northeastern New Mexico, covering 140,171 acres (about 220 square miles). It is known as the world’s largest youth camp, featuring 315 miles of trails, 35 staffed backcountry camps, and 770 campsites. Philmont is also a working cattle ranch, home to various livestock including 250 horses, 320 cattle and 140 bison. Additionally, it serves as one of Scouting America’s four national high-adventure bases, offering programs for Scouts and Venturers to explore its rugged wilderness.”

Whew. That’s a lot. And essentially true (it is AI after all, not quite perfect). Most of us think there are really only three high-adventure camps, but let's not throw too much shade at Bechtel Summit Reservation, which doesn't have much shade, or hills. And let's not forget the 60 or so burros at Philmont as well, some camps rely on them! Sorry, I tried not to go there. But Philmont pride forced me to.

If you want any more straight from the horse, check out what Philmont says about itself at About Philmont - Philmont Scout Ranch

So, what is a Ranger? Go CoPilot!

“The role of a Philmont Ranger is multifaceted, encompassing the responsibilities of an outfitter, guide, teacher, and mentor. Rangers are responsible for educating participants in Philmont backpacking practices and outdoor ethics, ensuring that crews are adequately prepared for their treks. They are trained in first aid, CPR, Search-and-Rescue techniques, bear and mountain lion safety procedures, navigation, and small-group leadership. Rangers also assist other departments across the Ranch to uphold its mission and ensure the efficient operation of the program. They are frontline representatives of Philmont, providing crews with the information and training required for a successful trek in the backcountry.”

Yeah, that’s pretty cool. Emphasis mine. 'Cause while all staff have a role, I think Rangers have the best role.

When a crew arrives for their trek (12, 9 or 7 days in total), the Ranger works with them for the first three days. The first day is entirely in basecamp and takes them through registration, logistics (confirming their itinerary and plan), outfitting (food and gear), some initial training, and then the infamous gear shakedown, which helps to make sure they have everything they need for a successful trek (and that they aren’t bringing anything that would simply weigh them down!). Days two and three are in the backcountry (difficulty varies depending on what they chose!), with training on the second day by the Ranger, and then observation on the third day to make sure the crew is ready to venture off for the remainder on their own. On the morning of the fourth day, the Ranger departs.

That's the official part of the job.

About half of the time the Ranger needs to return to basecamp by the following day in order to pick up another crew and repeat the process. Other times the Ranger might be granted a day off, which allows them to potentially have more time in the backcountry. If really lucky, and I was at least once, a Ranger might get two days off and then the sky’s the limit!

So, if the opportunity to backpack with crews and share experiences and knowledge weren’t enough, having free run of the spectacular backcountry during this free time is the added benefit! Most other staff are required to travel with a partner, Rangers are permitted to travel solo after they are done with the crew (before their next crew), regardless of how long this might be. How far you want to go, how high you want to climb, how many camps you want to visit (you do file a “trip plan”, but adjustments are permitted)? Just be back by 8 a.m. on the morning you get the new crew. Or they might come looking for you. And I do think “might”. They would probably wait at least a day to see if you show up. At least that’s what I’ve heard.

And this, IMHO, is the lesser known but best perk of being a Ranger.

One that I did my absolute best to take full advantage of. Sorry, not sorry.

Oh, and if I inadvertently violated any copyrights by using AI, just let me know, happy to take down or rework. We Rangers are honest too.