The Summit Experience
High Adventure
Scouting’s national high-adventure bases push scouts to their limits — and beyond.
Troop 87 regularly takes older scouts to Scouting America’s national High Adventure bases, giving them the challenge, independence and wilderness experiences that define the pinnacle of Scouting.
⚠ Qualification Requirements
Most High Adventure bases require scouts to be at least 14 years old (or 13 and have completed eighth grade). Physical fitness exams, an Annual Health and Medical Record (Parts A, B and C) and prep hikes are required. Talk to the Scoutmaster to start your journey.
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Cimarron, New Mexico · 140,000+ acres
Philmont Scout Ranch
The crown jewel of High Adventure. Trek 50–100 miles through the Sangre de Cristo mountains over 12 days, carrying everything you need on your back.
Backpacking · Rock climbing · 12 days · Ages 14+
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Florida Keys & Bahamas
Florida Sea Base
Set sail on the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys and the Bahamas — sailing, scuba, snorkeling and open-ocean adventure.
Sailing · Scuba · 7 days · Ages 14+
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Ely, Minnesota · Boundary Waters
Northern Tier
Paddle through thousands of lakes and portage across pristine wilderness. Winter programs include dog sledding.
Canoeing · Portaging · 7–10 days · Ages 14+
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Glen Jean, West Virginia · 10,600 acres
Summit Bechtel Reserve
Zip lines, mountain biking, BMX, whitewater rafting and a world-class climbing wall at the newest High Adventure base.
Climbing · Mountain biking · 7 days · Ages 13+
Troop-Organized
Custom High Adventure Expeditions
Beyond the national bases, Troop 87 plans its own high-adventure experiences — selected by scouts, planned by the Patrol Leaders’ Council and executed as a team.
- Boundary Waters canoe trips
- Rocky Mountain backpacking
- Grand Canyon rim-to-rim
- Whitewater rafting
- Local 50-miler treks
- Winter camping expeditions
