Fee: $1,365 (2026) / $1,425 (2027)
Experience the magic of Philmont like the legendary trappers and explorers of the Old West—on horseback! Philmont Cavalcades take your crew off the beaten path and into the heart of the rugged backcountry, trading boots for saddles as you ride through mountain wilderness and make memories that will last a lifetime.
These eight-day adventures are open to crews of 10 to 15 participants* and include all the elements you love about Philmont—scenic trails, backcountry camps, and exciting program activities—only on horseback! Your Cavalcade concludes with a thrilling equestrian gymkhana, where you’ll compete in a rodeo-style showdown to test your riding skills.
* If the crew should number fewer than 10, the group will be charged for 10 participants. The maximum number of crew members per Cavalcade is 15.
The Philmont fee is charged for every participant, including adult advisors. A deposit of $150 per participant is required to hold your reservation (a crew is 10-15 participants) and is due approximately 30-45 days after receiving a reservation confirmation email. Each group must pay half of the balance of fees by October 1, 2025, with the final payment due March 1, 2026.
ALL fees (Deposit and Balances as indicated in the payment schedule) are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE to the balance of fees in the event of cancellation. Be cautious of making reservations or paying fees for those who have not made a financial commitment. Philmont must commit financial resources to employ staff, purchase food and supplies, and prepare for summer operations.
Scholarships are available for youth who need assistance participating in their Philmont Scout Ranch experience. Information on these scholarships is sent by Philmont to Councils with contingents and to each Unit Reservation Contact. Notification of scholarship allocation and application processes will take place on or before October 1, 2025, for 2026 reservations. The application will remain open from this date until scholarship funds are no longer available.
NOTE: Be sure to complete your roster in the Registration Gateway by May 1, 2026, 11:59 PM MDT. This includes names, addresses, and all other required personal information for each crew member. Adding anyone to your roster after May 1 will incur additional fees of $150 per person.
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
For info on what to bring for Cavalcade, please reference the Guidebook for Adventure
Due to the limited number of horses and the popularity of this program, Cavalcades are assigned via a lottery system, and crews may not participate in consecutive years. The lottery opens at the same time as registration for 12-day, 9-day, and 7-day treks.
While you can submit dates for different trek types, you’ll only be awarded one.
Important: For the safety of riders and horses, there is a strict 200-pound weight limit for all participants—no exceptions.
Sessions are available from early June to early August each year. Reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis beginning October 1 two years prior. For instance, 2027 reservations open October 1, 2025.
By registering one to two years 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.
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.
Do you need another crew member or advisor for an upcoming trek? The new Trek Match feature on Camping Gateway will provide you with information about crews currently seeking members and sign you up for updates as future spots in crews become available.
You may also be interested in looking over all of Philmont’s Individual Program Opportunities.
Any new crew reservations for 2026 booked on or after April 17th for arrival dates after July 15th, 2026, will be eligible for 2025 pricing.