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SKOWHEGAN OUTDOORS
Youth Summer Learning Series
Summer with Skowhegan Outdoors is all about trying new things, building confidence, and spending time outside. The Youth Summer Learning Series provides outdoor learning experiences for youth ages 11 - 17 that blend skill-building, leadership development, and adventure across rivers, trails, huts, and coastal waters in Maine.
Click below to learn more:
A 4-day adventure blending whitewater kayaking and mountain biking in a supportive, confidence-building environment. Youth will paddle in Skowhegan, ride at Maine Huts & Trails, and experience a sea kayaking day. This session focuses on skill progression, teamwork, and outdoor leadership. Please note there is no overnight experience in this program.
- Day 1: Intro river paddling — Skowhegan
- Day 2: Intro mountain biking — Skowhegan area trails
- Day 3: Mountain biking exploration — Maine Huts & Trails
- Day 4: Sea kayaking and stewardship — Coastal (MITA)
Develop core trail skills including body positioning, braking, climbing, and descending techniques. This program progresses from local Skowhegan trails to terrain at Maine Huts & Trails and includes an overnight at Stratton Brook Hut to build independence and resilience. Participants should be able to ride a bike, but no mountain bike specific expereience required.
- Day 1: Trail foundations — Skowhegan
- Day 2: Skill progression — Skowhegan
- Day 3: Riding day/Overnight — Day 1 Maine Huts & Trails
- Day 4: Riding day — Day 2 Maine Huts & Trails
A second opportunity to experience our signature bike-and-paddle model. This multi-day, leadership-focused adventure includes river paddling, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and an overnight hut stay — designed for youth ready to push comfort zones and deepen outdoor skills.
- Day 1: Sea kayaking day — Coastal (MITA)
- Day 2: Mountain biking progression — Skowhegan
- Day 3: Overnight — Maine Huts and Trails
- Day 4: Overnight — Maine Huts and Trails
This 4-day immersion introduces river reading, boat control, eddy turns, bracing, and moving-water fundamentals. Youth progress from flatwater to current and complete an overnight camping experience. Ideal for beginners ready to build strong foundations. Particpants should be able to swim.
- Day 1: Foundations + flatwater skills — Skowhegan
- Day 2: Moving-water fundamentals — Skowhegan
- Day 3: Skill progression + river readiness — Day 1 East Outlet / Indian Pond
- Day 4: Overnight experience + refining skills — Day 2 East Outlet / Indian Pond
Focused on a variety of paddling opportunities - on the sea, in canoes, paddling efficiency - as well as basic fishing techniques and outdoor stewardship.
- Day 1: Maine Island Trails Association Coastal Trip
- Day 2: Fishing skills + stewardship — Skowhegan
- Day 3: Expedition day + camp — East Outlet / Indian Pond
- Day 4: Paddle + fish + return — East Outlet / Indian Pond
For youth with prior whitewater experience who are ready for stronger current and technical maneuvering. This 5-day program includes two overnight river travel experiences, Class II/III progression, and advanced skill development in a small-group environment. Instructor approval may be required.
- Day 1: Expedition travel — Magalloway River
- Day 2: Expedition travel — Magalloway River
- Day 3: Skills day — Skowhegan
- Day 4: Expedition travel — Seboomook
- Day 5: Expedition travel — Seboomook
Who this program is for?
- Youth ages 11–17 who want to learn outdoor skills in a supportive environment
- Beginners through developing participants (Intermediate Whitewater requires prior experience)
- Youth excited about teamwork, leadership, and trying new things outdoors
Preference will be given to youth who live in Somerset County
What's included?
- Instruction from trained outdoor educators
- Transportation to program locations
- Daily lunch (and snacks)
- Gear provided through the Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library
- Camping gear included for overnight experiences
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Join the interest list
Complete the interest form to get early registration access and help us understand which programs your youth is most excited about.
