Seven Greenwich Scouts returned home with stories they'll never forget after completing a 70-mile backpacking trek through the mountains of New Mexico.

The crew—made up of Scouts from Troop 35 in Glenville and Troops 5 and 23 in Old Greenwich—spent 12 days hiking through Philmont Scout Ranch, tackling elevations of more than 12,000 feet while carrying everything they needed on their backs.

Along the way, they climbed peaks, camped at 10 different sites, rode horses, rappelled, practiced archery and rock climbing, and endured two hailstorms. They also worked on a trail-building conservation project that was cut short when a black bear wandered into the area.

One of the trip's highlights came on July 4, when the crew hiked to the top of Shaefers Peak, 9,413 feet above sea level, to watch the sunset and celebrate the nation's 250th birthday.

The expedition was led by Greenwich Police Chief Jim Heavey, a longtime Scout leader, along with Scoutmasters Richard and Cynthia DiPreta and Troop Committee member Kamil Salame. Christopher DiPreta served as the Scouts' youth crew leader.

Philmont Scout Ranch, located in New Mexico's Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is considered one of Scouting's premier high-adventure destinations, drawing thousands of Scouts each year for challenging backcountry expeditions.

The Greenwich group wrapped up the trip with visits to the Kit Carson Museum and the National Scouting Museum before heading home.

Heavey told the Greenwich Sentinel he hopes to lead another Greenwich crew to Philmont in 2028.