'Friar' Greg Senseman

Greg Sensman, known to many as Friar, shares his deep and storied connection to Philmont Scout Ranch in this heartfelt episode of Silver on the Sage. From his first exposure to Philmont through his father’s 1950s trek, to hopping on two last-minute treks as a teenager, Greg recounts his journey into the backcountry and eventual staff career that spanned from 1986 to 1994. He reflects on his time at remote camps like Clear Creek and French Henry, where isolation, rugged living, and storytelling traditions shaped his identity. His love for Western history, burros, llamas, and the spirit of the fur trade fueled his passion, while memorable moments—from a runaway horse ride to ghostly whispers in the mine—add layers of adventure and mystery. Greg also discusses the profound impact of mentorship from leaders like Lee Hathaway and Chris Warren, the tight-knit community of staff, and how his time at Philmont instilled lifelong values of resilience, leadership, and human connection. Though he eventually left the ranch for a career in art and retail, he remains deeply connected through family, friends, and annual visits. The episode captures not just a personal memoir but a cultural portrait of Philmont’s golden era—the storytelling, the traditions like Christmas in July and rendezvous, and the enduring legacy of the staff. Greg’s nickname 'Friar' emerges organically from a moment of playful banter and becomes a symbol of his identity. He offers wisdom on the transformative power of outdoor leadership, the importance of community, and the quiet beauty of places like Mount Phillips and Miranda. His reflections on art, family, and the enduring scent of pine and sage underscore a life shaped by place, people, and purpose.