The crew followed Trek 705-9E from July 5 through July 13, hiking at elevations near 9,000 feet and climbing Hart Peak, which reaches 7,975 feet. The group included Crew Leader Lea McKenna, Chaplain Aide Sara Aspen Abraham-Winkler, Wilderness Pledge Guía Suhaani Tiwari, Genevieve Brazell, Penelope Brazell, Elena Katz and Olivia Phillips. James McKenna, Fiona Phillips, Sandra Winkler and Jordan Katz served as adult leaders.
For McKenna, Abraham-Winkler and Penelope Brazell, the trip marked a second Philmont experience after attending in 2024. Scoutmaster James McKenna said the experienced Scouts helped first-time participants grow into a confident, self-reliant team.
Katz said stories from Troop 19's first Philmont crew encouraged her to take part. She said the Scout Oath and Law guided the group to respect the trails and appreciate the ranch's natural setting.
The trek gave the Scouts an opportunity to build leadership, outdoor and teamwork skills while representing their Short Hills troop on one of Scouting America's signature high-adventure programs.
