COVID-19 Update as of December, 2022
Philmont is following the current CDC guidelines for participation at the ranch. For more information, follow the link below:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
COVID-19 Supplementary Safety Forms
Philmont recommends that anyone who has been hospitalized for COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic be cleared by their primary care provider. Philmont recommends that participants who had a positive COVID-19 test or COVID-19 illness, regardless of severity, within 6 months of scheduled arrival at Philmont be cleared for high levels of exertion at high elevations by their primary care provider.
Philmont requires that all participants review and agree to our Code of Conduct form. Please be prepared to turn these in at registration.
COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination Requirements FAQ
No, while we strongly recommend anyone who is eligible to get vaccinated, do so, we do not require vaccinations to attend Philmont at this time. However, if you are not vaccinated, you must arrive with a negative COVID-19 test, taken ideally three to five days before your arrival at Philmont.
Philmont will accept proof of a negative test using either a PCR or rapid antigen test, an antibody test will not be accepted. FDA approved rapid antigen test are available over the counter or free through state and federal programs. These tests may be used for prearrival testing. If you use these tests, we ask that you follow the directions carefully and, and take a photo of the negative result with your name and the date written on the test.
Philmont considers a participant to be fully vaccinated if they have completed the initial series of vaccination and received a booster. People at high risk for severe COVID illness should consult with their physician about additional boosters od go to CDC Booster Info to learn more about vaccinations.
Ideally your crew should receive a negative COVID-19 test 3 days before arrival at Philmont, but we understand that due to travel that time frame may be difficult and will accept a test that is within 5 days. It is important that participants make an effort to avoid potential exposure between the time of the test and arrival at Philmont.
The goal of testing before arrival is to ensure that you and your crew are safe while traveling to Philmont. If a member of your crew tests positive for COVID-19 before beginning the trip they should stay home and isolate according to state and CDC guidelines. If other members of your crew have been in close contact with the person who tested positive, they should also stay home and follow the appropriate isolation and testing guidelines.
If members of your crew have tested negative and have not been in close contact with the person who has tested positive, they may still attend.
Philmont may be able to help your crew reschedule for a trek later in the summer but we cannot guarantee that a spot will be available.
Yes. If a member of your crew tests positive for COVID-19 before leaving for your trek, we would consider it a valid reason for a medical refund. See https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/philmonttreks/fees/ to learn more about our refund policy.
While we would prefer that you get tested no more than three days in advance of your arrival, we understand that this may be difficult due to travel so we will accept a negative test within 5 days if everyone on the crew has done their best to stay safe and distanced from others outside of their cohort during travel.
Yes. All participants, staff (newly arriving) and guests will be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 3 days prior to arrival. Tests up taken up to 5 days prior to arrival will still be accepted in the case of more limiting travel scenarios.
While PCR tests can be sensitive to past COVID for longer periods, antigen tests (at home tests) are generally negative when you are no longer contagious.
Yes. Participants in Philmont’s individual treks also need to be able to show proof of a vaccine or a negative test. Participants in individual treks may also be tested on arrival at Philmont as an added safety measure.
Yes. Several FDA approved rapid antigen test are available on the market or free through state and federal programs. These tests may be used for prearrival. If you use these tests, we ask that you follow the directions carefully and, and take a photo of the negative result with your name and the date written on the test.
Yes. While a printed copy is preferred, we will accept a digital copy of a negative test as long as the date, and the result are clearly legible.
While we respect deeply held religion beliefs, there is no religious exemption from COVID-19 testing. If you are not able to arrive with a negative test, you should reschedule your adventure for a later date . All participants must be able to test, for either diagnostic reasons, or as part of our surveillance testing program to attend Philmont at this time.
If someone develops symptoms COVID-19 the Philmont Infirmary will perform testing and evaluation of the participant. If they are found to be positive for COVID-19, the entire crew (Cohort) may be required to isolate. Once the crew is isolated Philmont will make every effort to help the crew get home in a safe manner but is prepared to house them in an isolation area for up to 10 days.
No, you are welcome to upload the vaccination card as part of your BSA Health and Medical Form but we also ask please bring a copy or a photo of your COVID vaccination card with you to Philmont.