WAITSFIELD, Vt. — The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a one-of-a-kind place for kids to learn to paddle, camp, and have the experience of a lifetime. For youth ages 10-14, the Northern Forest Explorers Program takes participants on five-day paddling trips that support outdoor educational experiences, healthy lifestyles, cultivate leadership and teamwork skills, and foster a practical understanding of the natural environment.

This summer, the Northern Forest Explorers Program will run 12 sessions. Locations and dates are as follows:

Maine — Eustis/Stratton (Flagstaff Lake): July 25–29; Jackman (Moose River): Aug. 1–5; Rockwood/Greenville (West Branch Penobscot): Aug. 8–12

New Hampshire — Colebrook/Stratford (Connecticut River): July 11–15; Groveton Region (Connecticut River): Aug. 17–21; Errol/Milan/Berlin (Lake Umbagog/Androscoggin River): June 27–July 1

Vermont — Richford/Enosburg/Montgomery (Missisquoi River): June 27–July 1; Northeast Kingdom (Clyde River): July 5–9, Aug. 1–5

Adirondacks — Old Forge/Eagle Bay Region: July 11–15; Long Lake Region: July 18–22; Tupper Lake/Saranac Lake: July 25–29

The cost is $100 per student; financial aid is available, but space is limited. Applications are due May 27 and are available by contacting Youth Program Director Roger Poor at 1-603-801-9597, Roger@northernforestcanoetrail.org.

Northern Forest Explorers gain a sense of appreciation for their own backyards, are inspired to support them, and build a foundation of leadership skills to be able to do so. Participants learn basic outdoor skills, environmental and ecological relationships, and both self and group leadership basics.

To learn more about the Northern Forest Explorers Program, visit www.northernforestcanoetrail.org or call 802-496-2285.