To Balsam & Beyond is a challenge--50 miles across the Catskill mountain range. If you want to test your mettle and grab a few merit badges and that coveted 50-miler patch along the way, then consider the trek.
It is offered the last week of summer camp at Onteora Scout Reservation, which usually coincides with the first week in August. It's as challenging as Philmont, at a fraction of the cost.
As tough as it is, there is no shortage of fun, and for many, the first time, at the Balsam Mountain Fire Tower, to finally see the mountains from above the tree line.