What is “The Founders Ride”?
A luxury cavalcade that traces the horseback trips of Waite Phillips as he and guests would visit his favorite camps! A five-night stay at Philmont with 3 nights spent in the backcountry.
While you ride between camps, staff will transport your gear to the next location.
Ride the trails of history, enjoy upscale meals, social hours, learn the local history and have the opportunity to relax in the beauty of Philmonts’ Backcountry.
Dates
August 22-27, 2025
Accomodations
While on the trail, guests will stay in cabins or canvas tents. Each location has beds. Bedding and linens are provided at each destination, so you don’t have to pack any! Showers are available at certain locations. Each stop on your cavalcade adventure has a rich history to learn about. You will be sleeping, eating, and spending time at camps that shaped our history.
Dining
Enjoy fine cuisine in remote locations with scenic views! Start the day with fresh-brewed coffee or tea. Chefs will prepare a hearty trail breakfast and have lighter continental options if preferred. Picnic style lunches are provided while on the trail featuring charcuterie boards and gourmet sandwiches made fresh on-site. Evening meals will be substantial Western fare prepared at camp with appetizers and desserts. (Specific Dietary requirements are not a problem! Philmont can accommodate most dietary needs). This trip is not intended to be a Mountain Weight Loss Program!
Horseback in the Mountains
Guests will ride from camp to camp with the expert guidance of Philmont Wranglers. Staff will match you with a trusty steed and care for saddling and unsaddling your mount daily. The itinerary follows the trails of mountain men, cowboys, and Waite Phillips as he led guests on mountain trails. Rides will vary from 4 to 10 miles a day. Philmont Wranglers are trained to assess riders’ needs, and trail adjustments can be made to ensure each guest’s enjoyable experience.
Itinerary
Day one: Arrive, orientation, welcome reception, stay in Base
Day two: Hunting Lodge
Day three: Crater Lake
Day four: Bonita Cow Camp and Fish Camp
Day five: Beaubien, Base, Villa Philmonté
Day six: Departure day
Cost
The Founders Ride fee is $2,900 per person. This fee includes food, beverages, bedding, linens, guides, and staff.
Transportation
- Upon request, Albuquerque and Denver airport shuttles can be arranged for an additional fee.
- Pickup from the Raton Train Station is available at no additional charge.
- Pickup from Raton Airport is also available at no additional charge.
For more information, contact Reyna Myers
Reyna.Myers@scouting.org
(575) 376-1124