Health & Medical Standards
Philmont's medical standards are strict and non-negotiable for the safety of all participants.
Non-Negotiable
Philmont Medical Requirements
Strict Weight Limit
Anyone over 295 lbs is strictly prohibited from entering the backcountry, regardless of height, BMI, or fitness, due to standard evacuation equipment limits.
BMI Guidelines
Philmont strictly enforces height and weight requirements based on a Body Mass Index (BMI) standard. Please review the official guidelines to ensure compliance prior to registration.
View Official Philmont BMI Requirements →
Youth Weight Exemptions
Youth participants may apply for up to a 20 lb exemption via the Philmont Infirmary, strictly at the medical staff's discretion based on athletic build.
Adult Weight Exemptions
No weight exemptions are allowed for adults without official body fat testing (hydrostatic water displacement, BodPod, or DEXA scan) showing ≤15% body fat for males or ≤22% for females. Skinfold tests are not accepted.
Required Documents
Medical Forms Submission
All participants must submit completed BSA Annual Health and Medical Record forms (Parts A, B, and C).
Submission Instructions
Physical copies of Parts A, B, and C must be completely filled out, signed by a physician, and dropped off directly to the Lead Advisor.
Drop-off Location:
Paul Trombello's House
509 East Spring Ave
Ardmore, PA