As the sun set over Signal Mountain and the echoes of the North Fork quieted, Boys’ Trail’s End concluded another remarkable summer. The summer of 2024 at BTE was nothing short of legendary. From the moment the vans rolled in, the excitement was palpable, and the energy never waned. The memories forged in the mountains, the friendships nurtured under starry skies, and the lessons learned in the wild will linger with each of us, binding together this generation of campers with those who came before.
This summer, Boys’ Trail’s End embraced the Cheley mission of building character, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Every activity, from summiting peaks to riding rugged trails, challenged our campers to push beyond their limits, form lasting bonds, and create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
In our hiking program, led by Will Chasse, Lleyton Hargrove, and Cade Oster, campers took on the rugged terrain of the Rockies, exploring breathtaking destinations such as Chief’s Head, Longs Peak & Mount Meeker, and Eagle’s Beak. Whether they were tackling steep ascents or navigating rocky ridges, the determination and camaraderie of our hikers shone through. We are proud to recognize Jake Emdur, Benjamin Ikenberry, Arran Machado, and William Wegner for earning their Junior Hiking Basics and Patch, and Jackson Cheley, Jeramy Moore, Rory Neren, Ryan Rosenberg, and Brandon Scott for achieving their Senior Hiking Basics and Patch.
The backpacking program, under the guidance of Jim Ber, Cooper Brackett, Jack “Stache” Madden, saw campers venture deep into the wilderness on multi-day treks, camping under the stars and learning the value of teamwork and perseverance. They returned with stories of adventure and personal growth, and we commend Damian Downey, Jake Emdur, Elliot Leighton, and Mason Mandel for earning their Junior Backpacking Basics and Patch, and Charlie Andersen, Jackson Cheley, Jeramy Moore, Ryan Rosenberg, and Jaxson Wheat for their Senior Backpacking Basics Patch.
On two wheels, our mountain biking program, led by Cameron Barnhardt, Kian Rafian, and Henry McDonald, took campers on thrilling rides through the rugged hills and trails surrounding Estes. Whether racing down descents or powering through challenging climbs, our bikers displayed grit and enthusiasm. We congratulate Ryan Amstutz, Edward Codr, and Chester Lull for earning their Mountain Biking Basics and Patch.
In the saddle, BTE campers experienced the freedom and connection of horseback riding, guided by Jack “Hammer” Hodge, Ryan Schoolman, and Bennett Wagnon. From serene trail rides to intense riding lessons, our campers developed a deep bond with their horses and honed their riding skills. We celebrate the achievements of Max French and Cain Morrison for earning their Junior Riding Basics and Patch, and Reid Bardin, Charles Bierbaum, Charles Brown, Sykes Lamensdorf, Cayden Six, Owen Zimmerman, and Sutton Zimmerman for earning their Senior Riding Basics and Patch.
Around the campfire, our outcamping program, led by Jackson Turpin, brought campers closer together as they shared stories, reflected on their experiences, and built a community in the great outdoors. Whether they were cooking meals over an open fire or exploring remote campsites, these moments of connection and reflection were highlights of the summer.
Crafts was nothing short of spectacular this summer, due to Jack “Crafts” Quinn‘s leadership! It became a hub of creativity and camaraderie, where campers could explore their artistic talents. The highlight of the season was our first-ever overnight crafts event, where campers worked late into the night on special projects under the stars. This was followed by our inaugural EB (early-breakfast) crafts session focused on sewing. Campers eagerly woke up before dawn to create unique pieces while enjoying the serenity of the early morning. Whether it was tie-dye, leatherwork, or bead crafting, the enthusiasm for crafts was palpable, making it one of the most popular spots at camp this summer.
Archery continued to be a favorite among BTE campers, with the range constantly abuzz with excitement. Campers of all skill levels took aim, striving to hit the bullseye and earn their place on the leaderboard. By the end of the summer, the archery range was filled with proud archers who had not only enhanced their skills but also developed patience, focus, and discipline. Archery at BTE was not just about hitting the target but also about building confidence and perseverance. The following campers earned arrows in Archery:
White Arrow
William Allen, Reid Bardin, Conrad Booher, Flynn Carrico, Connor Coady, John Conrad, Enzo D’Agata, Eli Erb, Parker Evans, Elif Ferruzzo, Walter Laukitis, Thomas Leman, Jr., Kyle Newman, Daschel Nordlander, William Olson, Tobias Schosser, Finley Sommerfeld, Noah Stinchcomb, William Tobin, Nguyen Vu Bui, and William Wegner.
Black Arrow
William Allen, Evan Baker, Reid Bardin, Conrad Booher, John Conrad, Eli Erb, Elif Ferruzzo, Henry Hogan, Arthur Kaplan, Walter Laukitis, Thomas Leman, Jr., Ash Montgomery, Kyle Newman, William Olson, William Tobin, and William Wegner.
Blue Arrow
William Allen, Chase Bell, Conrad Booher, Harrison Cunningham, Parker Evans, Elif Ferruzzo, Arthur Kaplan, Walter Laukitis, Mason Mandel, William Olson, Tobias Schosser, William Tobin, and William Wegner.
Red Arrow
William Allen, Reid Bardin, John Bond IV, Parker Evans, Henry Haddock, Mason Mandel, William Olson, and Tobias Schosser.
Gold Arrow
Harrison Cunningham, Parker Evans, and Ryder LaSusa.
Our riflery range was bustling with activity this season as campers honed their marksmanship skills. Under the careful guidance of Keshar Humagain, many campers achieved personal bests, steadily improving their aim and technique. The camaraderie and focus at the range were evident as campers cheered each other on and celebrated every bullseye. Whether they were first-time shooters or seasoned veterans, each camper embraced the challenges and triumphs of riflery, making it a staple experience of their summer at Boys’ Trail’s End.
Prone Specialist
Max Allen, William Allen, Mathew Bell, John Bond IV, Jackson Cheley, Edward Codr, John Conrad, Harrison Cunningham, Enzo D’Agata, Grady Haberkorn, Walter Laukitis, Elliot Leighton, Thomas Leman, Jr., Gray Montgomery Maloney, Mikie Shimkus, Thomas Trueblood, Nguyen Vu Bui, and William Wegner.
Level I, II, III, & IV
The following campers earned their Level 1 pin: William Allen, Evan Baker, John Bond IV, Wesley Holmes, Gray Montgomery Maloney, Kyle Newman, Ryan Rosenberg, Finley Sommerfeld, Andrew Stadler, and William Tobin.
The following campers earned their Level 2 pin: William Allen and Ryan Rosenberg.
The following campers earned their Level 3 pin: Creighton Garcia, Nathan Makstenieks, and William Olson.
The following camper earned their Level 4 pin: Ryan Amstutz and Nathan Makstenieks.
Kneeling Specialist and Level I, II, & III
The following camper earned their Kneeling Specialist: Arthur Kaplan.
The following campers earned their Level 1 pin: Evan Baker, Edward Codr, Arthur Kaplan, Kyle Newman, Jack Rinehart, Mikie Shimkus, William Tobin, and William Wegner.
The following camper earned their Level 2 pin: Jake Rinehart.
The following campers earned their Level 3 pin: Nathan Makstenieks and Jake Rinehart.
Standing Specialist
The following campers earned their Standing Specialist: William Allen and Arthur Kaplan.
The following campers earned their Pine Cone Patch: EJ Elliott, Walter Laukitis, and Nikita Sommers. To earn this, you had to be well-rounded and open-minded. These adventurous boys had to meet specific riding, hiking, outcamping, archery, riflery, crafts, and climbing requirements, as well as help out with campfire, Chapel, cookout, or choir.
The following campers earned their On the Trail Patch: Tyler Anderson, Beck Bordelon, Morrison Bump, Flynn Carrico, Edward Codr, Lukas Cyran, Damian Downey, EJ Elliott, Jake Emdur, Benjamin Ikenberry, Elliot Leighton, Trenton Long, Mason Mandel, El Perkins, Nikita Sommers, Thomas Van Ness, William Wegner, Teos White, Walter Willis, Chester Lull, Cayden Six, and Owen Zimmerman.
Campfires, expertly led by Alex Aronov and Patty Keely, were a highlight of the summer, bringing the camp community together each night. Among the favorites were Casino Night, where campers tested their luck, and the hilarious Counselor Impersonation Night, where campers showcased their comedic talents by mimicking their beloved counselors. Each evening was filled with laughter, connection, and the spirit of camp.
Our CILTs (Campers in Leadership Training), Evan Baker during First Term, and Santino Crudele-Sands, Jake Donohue, Dawson Reller, and Matti Stevens during Second Term, brought wisdom, leadership, and spirit to BTE. They led by example, guided younger campers, and played a crucial role in maintaining the strong sense of community and tradition that defines the Manly but Mellow Men. From facilitating the Code of Living discussions to leading all-camp activities, they consistently went above and beyond, making a lasting impact on the unit.
As the summer drew to a close, our campers reflected on the Code of Living they had crafted together. This code embodied the values they aimed to live by during their time at camp. At the end of each term, the campers came together to honor those who best exemplified these traits, recognizing their outstanding character, leadership, and dedication to the BTE community. The traits Transparency, Resiliency, Passion, Serenity, and Accountability were displayed on the Code First Term, while Maturity, Perseverance, Selflessness, Inclusivity, and Courage were written into Second Term’s. Congratulations to our Driver of the Covered Wagon recipients: Lukas Cyran, Eli Erb, Walter Laukitis, Mason Mandel, and Nikita Sommers. And congratulations to our Top Hand recipients: Evan Baker, Jake Donohue, Luke Johnston, Sykes Lamensdorf, Rory Neren, and Owen Zimmerman. These campers set a high standard for the unit, and their commitment to living the Code of Living will be remembered.
During the fourth week of Second Term, Boys’ Trail’s End faced an unexpected challenge when we had to evacuate due to the Alexander Mountain Fire. Our campers and staff showed remarkable resilience and adaptability, spending their final days at Land O’Peaks. Despite the circumstances, the BTE spirit remained strong. We continued our traditions, engaged in closure activities, and made the most of our time together. The camaraderie and positive attitude displayed by everyone during this time were truly inspiring. We commend our Second Term BTE campers and staff for their unwavering spirit and for making the best of a difficult situation.
As the seasons change and our daily lives return to their routines, we hope our campers carry the lessons of Boys’ Trail’s End with them, applying the Code of Living in their homes, schools, and communities. We look forward to welcoming them back to Cheley next summer.
Thank you for a once in a lifetime summer!
Mark Richter, Director
Boone Brackett, Asst. Director
Joe Kelly, Asst. Director
