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Burro Packing

Available at: Miranda, Ponil

The Burro Packing program at Philmont Scout Ranch is a unique and hands-on experience that allows participants to learn the art of packing and caring for burros, which have been integral to Philmont’s backcountry operations for many years. This program is designed to teach scouts about the skills needed to transport gear and supplies using burros, a traditional method used in the mountainous terrain of Philmont.

Participants in the Burro Packing program learn how to properly pack and load a burro, ensuring that the weight is distributed evenly and that the animal is comfortable and safe. Scouts are also taught how to handle burros with care, building trust with the animals and understanding their needs. This includes grooming, feeding, and managing the burros during treks, as well as learning about their behavior and how to communicate with them effectively.

The program provides a blend of practical skills and historical context, as burros have played a significant role in Philmont’s history, particularly during the early days of the ranch’s development. Participants gain an appreciation for the hard work and responsibility involved in caring for these animals, and they often have the opportunity to pack their own gear and travel through Philmont’s backcountry with their burro companion.

The burro stands out as a quintessential symbol of the vibrant history of the Southwest. Techniques for packing with burros are taught and demonstrated at Ponil and Miranda. Burros are available for trekking in the northern area of the ranch, with trails starting or ending at Ponil and Miranda. Burro traps, which serve as holding pens for overnight stops, are situated at Ponil, Pueblano, Miranda, Elkhorn, Flume Canyon, Head of Dean, and Baldy Skyline, along with hay provided for feeding. If your journey involves utilizing burros for packing, seize the chance to experience this traditional method, reminiscent of the miners’ practices. All crews on a Burro Itinerary are required to utilize burros.

Burro packing at Philmont offers a unique way to experience the ranch’s wilderness, combining adventure, animal care, and teamwork. It’s a memorable part of the Philmont experience, offering scouts the chance to learn about both the history of pack animals and the joy of working with them in the great outdoors.

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