Are you planning a Philmont trek for 2027 or beyond? If so, there are some important changes to be aware of regarding cooking stoves and the fuel Philmont provides for them.

For decades, Philmont Crews have used white gas to fuel their stoves during their adventures. Both white gas and isobutane have maintained prominence in the outdoor industry, making it practical for crews to source stoves and for Philmont to source fuel. In recent years, Philmont has made both fuels available for purchase in Base Camp and at select backcountry camps.

Over time, the industry has begun to move away from white gas as a fuel. Isobutane stoves have improved performance at higher elevations and overall efficiency over time. White gas, on the other hand, has become difficult to source in large quantities at an affordable price due to its decline in popularity and the complex refining and packaging process required to produce it.

As a result of these shifts, Philmont has decided that beginning in 2027, Philmont will no longer make white gas available for purchase for crews. Isobutane will remain available both in Base Camp and in designated backcountry camps, as normal.

White gas will remain available for purchase from Philmont in 2026, with a Gas Pass purchased in Base Camp. This one-time purchase will allow crews to refill white gas as needed in the backcountry without paying for each refill.

While Philmont will no longer supply white gas starting in 2027, crews may still bring their own. Please consult the Guidebook to Adventure: Advisor’s Edition for details on how to ship fuel bottles if your crew is using commercial transportation to Philmont.