PSA Volunteer Vacation

  • 8 days and 7 nights

Fee: $160 (PSA) for 2024

  • Register: By individual
  • Season: Fall
  • Age: 16 or older
  • Crew Size: Maximum 24
  • Leadership: Leadership provided by Philmont
  • Registration Deadline: August 14, 2024

Program Overview

Organized with the sponsorship of the Philmont Staff Association, Volunteer Vacation engages adult Scouters in volunteer work in a similar fashion to the youth trail crews of the summer season. Volunteers will spend one week working and living in the Philmont backcountry constructing trail. Volunteers work with staff from the Philmont Conservation Department to develop trail construction skills and use them to leave a lasting impact for the thousands of participants who will use the trail in the future. At the end of the work week, volunteers have the opportunity to hike in the Philmont backcountry for a day before returning to Base Camp.

A Volunteer Vacation crew gathers for a group picture in front of Tooth Ridge.

Participant Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old by the date the program begins or 16 years old by the date the program begins if the child is a PSA member. 
  • Be a registered adult member of the Boy Scouts of America, and have completed all required trainings.
  • Be in good physical condition, able to hike 3 or more miles with a 20-pound backpack and able to lift and handle materials up to 50 pounds. (Philmont height and weight guidelines will be strictly enforced.)
  • Complete a BSA Annual Health and Medical Record.

2024 Session Date

September 14-21, 2024

Trip Itinerary

  • Saturday: Volunteers arrive at Philmont and spend the night in Base Camp.
  • Sunday: Crew departs Base Camp and hikes to a backcountry worksite.
  • Monday-Wednesday: Crew works on trail project.
  • Thursday: Crew breaks camp and departs for a day of hiking.
  • Friday: Possible side hikes before return to Base Camp.
  • Saturday: Volunteers travel home.

Shuttle Information

  • Click the link below for more Shuttle information.

Additional Information

Feel free to contact us with any questions at Philmont.Conservation@scouting.org.