Fee: $1,430 (2026)
Rayado isn’t just a trek—it’s Philmont’s ultimate test of leadership, grit, and backcountry mastery. Over the course of three intense weeks, you’ll join Scouts and Venturers from across the nation and take on an experience that demands everything you’ve got—and gives back even more.
Rayado is not for everyone—it’s for those who want to experience the next level of Philmont.
Rayado is designed to transform you into a backcountry leader. Throughout the trek, you’ll build advanced outdoor and interpersonal skills, including:
You’ll explore wild, lesser-traveled corners of Philmont and take on challenges you won’t see on any standard trek. Rayado’s power lies in the unknown—activities and routes are kept secret to preserve the spirit of discovery and adventure. This is Philmont at its boldest. If you’re ready to be pushed, changed, and forged into something stronger—Rayado is waiting.
The Rayado Trek program is open to both males and females. Participants must meet the following requirements:
Scouts from the same unit, or otherwise acquainted, will be placed in separate crews.
The Rayado Trek program is open to both males and females. Participants must meet the following requirements:
Scouts from the same unit, or otherwise acquainted, will be placed in separate crews.
There are two sessions of Rayado, each of which includes multiple treks for both male crews and female crews. Session dates are the same every year.
Session 1
June 16 – July 6
Session 2
July 16 – August 5
Transportation fees may be prepaid to reduce the amount of cash you carry, if you wish.
If, due to transportation schedules, participants must stay an extra day in base camp, either before or after their trek, they will be charged for accommodations. Participants under 18 years of age will pay $75 for supervision, tenting, and meals. Those over 18 will be charged $6 per meal and $10 for tenting. Participants arriving by plane or train by shuttle the day before will not be charged extra. Due to limited tent space, participants are only allowed 1 additional day in base so please plan accordingly.
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
For more information regarding the program: RAYADO Information.
Sessions are available from early June to early August each year. Reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis beginning October 1 of the year prior. For instance, 2026 reservations open October 1, 2025.
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.
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.
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.