Roving Outdoor Conservation School (ROCS) Trek

21 Days of Adventure, Science, and Stewardship

21 days & nights

Summer

Age: 16 - 21

Registration anytime

2 adult leaders

Fee: $1,025 (2026)

Step into the wild and discover the power of conservation in action on the ROCS Trek—a thrilling 21-day expedition designed for Scouts passionate about protecting the environment and mastering backcountry skills. This is your chance to dive deep into natural resource management while exploring Philmont’s breathtaking wilderness like never before.

Living the Adventure

What Will You Do?

The ROCS Trek blends adventure with education through:

Participating in unique conservation projects that protect Philmont’s land and wildlife.
Conducting hands-on scientific research alongside land management experts.
Learning advanced backpacking and wilderness skills essential for any high-adventure trek.
Exploring the stunning backcountry of Philmont on a 21-day trek filled with discovery.
Developing leadership skills rooted in stewardship, teamwork, and respect for nature.
Building a deep, lasting connection with the environment and Philmont’s legacy.

Ready to combine your love of the outdoors with real-world conservation? The ROCS Trek is where your passion meets purpose—and adventure meets impact.

Participation Requirements

To participate in the ROCS program, participants must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 16 years old by the date the program begins and not yet 21 by the date it ends.
Be a registered member of Scouting America.
Be in excellent physical condition, able to hike 10 or more miles with a 50-pound backpack and able to lift and handle materials up to 75 pounds.
Have strong camping and backpacking skills; previous Philmont experience is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.
Complete a Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record. Philmont height and weight requirements will be strictly enforced.
To comply with Scouting America Youth Protection requirements, each session must have a minimum of two participants from the same gender attend. Individual youth participants may register without a buddy of the same gender, however, if no other youth participants of the same gender register, your session date may need to change or be canceled to comply with Scouting America Youth Protection requirements.

Participation Requirements

To participate in the ROCS program, participants must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 16 years old by the date the program begins and not yet 21 by the date it ends.
Be a registered member of Scouting America.
Be in excellent physical condition, able to hike 10 or more miles with a 50-pound backpack and able to lift and handle materials up to 75 pounds.
Have strong camping and backpacking skills; previous Philmont experience is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.
Complete a Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record. Philmont height and weight requirements will be strictly enforced.
To comply with Scouting America Youth Protection requirements, each session must have a minimum of two participants from the same gender attend. Individual youth participants may register without a buddy of the same gender, however, if no other youth participants of the same gender register, your session date may need to change or be canceled to comply with Scouting America Youth Protection requirements.

2026 Session Dates

Session 1

June 12 – July 3

Session 2

June 19 – July 10

Session 3

July 7 – 28

Session 4

July 17 – August 7

*All ROCS sessions are Co-ed.

Trek Fees & Scholarships

The fee for ROCS is $1,040 in 2026. A $150 deposit is required with this application with the remaining balance due at the time of acceptance into the program. Additional expenses, including travel to and from Philmont, as well as miscellaneous purchases, are the responsibility of the participant. Scholarships are available on a limited basis.

ROCS Trek Resources

Feel free to contact us with any questions.

2024 ROCS Info

Shuttle Information

View Shuttle and Transport Information here.

Secure Your Spot on the Trail

Register Now for 2025 Treks. 2026 Registration is Coming Soon!

Sessions are available from early June to early August each year. Reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis beginning October 1of the year prior to your trek.

By registering one year in advance, individuals have the best chance to secure their preferred trek dates and allows ample time for fundraising, physical conditioning, leadership development, and shakedown hikes to ensure you are up for the challenge of the Philmont.

Reservations are confirmed upon receipt of non-refundable deposit of $150 per person and a completed reservation form. The balance of fees are due by May 1.

Be Philmont Prepared!

The Philmont Resource Toolbox has everything you need to get ready for your trek—equipment lists, itineraries, Guidebooks to Adventure, and all required forms. It’s your one-stop hub to help you hit the backcountry trails prepared and confident.