Advisor Information 

Adult Advisors play a critical role in supporting our youth leaders while ensuring overall safety on and off the trail. While Philmont is a youth-led expedition where Scouts make the decisions, Advisors serve as the safety net, mentors, and risk managers.

1. Mandatory Qualifications & Credentials

To participate as an Adult Advisor on the 2028 Philmont Expedition, all adults must meet the following Scouting America requirements prior to departure:

• Age & Registration: Must be at least 21 years old and a currently registered adult leader with Scouting America.

• Youth Protection Training (YPT): Must hold current Youth Protection Training certification through the entire duration of the trip.

• Valid Identification: Must bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (Driver’s License or Passport) for airport security and Philmont check-in.

• Medical Readiness: Must pass the official BSA Annual Health and Medical Record (Parts A, B, and C) including meeting Philmont's strict Height/Weight standards and blood pressure limits. View the Health & Safety page for information regarding medical readiness. 

2. Required Certifications

Every crew must meet Philmont's backcountry safety standards by holding active certifications in the following areas:

• Wilderness First Aid (WFA): All advisors must complete a hands-on, 16-hour Wilderness First Aid course.

• CPR / AED Certification: All advisors must hold current hands-on CPR and AED certification from a nationally recognized provider (e.g., American Red Cross or AHA).

• Weather Hazards & Safe Swim Defense: Must complete online training modules via my.Scouting.org.

Once you acquire the certificates, send a copy immediately to troop71philmont@gmail.com so we can log them in the official Philmont Gateway before departure so Philmont can verify them.

3. Crew Leadership Structure & Ratios

• Crew Size Limits: Each crew will have a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 4 Adult Advisors, depending on Scout participation and crew registration limits.

• The "Rule of Three": Having three (3) registered adult leaders age 21+ per crew is mandatory. This ensures full compliance with Two-Deep Leadership policies and provides necessary flexibility if an advisor must accompany an injured Scout off the trail while two adults remain with the crew.

4. Physical Preparation & Expectations

• Training Hikes & Shakedowns: Advisors are expected to participate alongside the Scouts in all mandatory prep hikes and weekend shakedown trips to test gear, assess physical readiness, and build crew cohesion.

• Physical Fitness: Philmont is a strenuous high-altitude environment. Advisors must maintain a personal physical fitness routine leading up to departure (cardio, strength, and hiking with a weighted pack) to successfully handle backcountry terrain and be able to hike alongside the Scouts.

Official Philmont Information: