Maine Youth Wilderness Leadership Program
The next generation of outdoor leadership begins here…
Our flagship program for youth cultivates and inspires the next generation of Maine's environmental leaders. Open to all Maine high school sophomores and juniors, the program’s highlight is a nine-day wilderness experience in Baxter State Park, backpacking from one end of the Park to the other.
About the program
Friends of Baxter State Park has offered this program annually since 2009. The program includes a nine-day wilderness experience in Baxter State Park. This 200,000+ acre preserve serves as an outdoor classroom as participants backpack from one end of the Park to the other, working with a variety of specialists and Park staff to understand the wilderness through science, art, storytelling, photography, writing, history, and recreation.
Current Maine high school sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply, and thanks to support from generous donors and members of Friends of Baxter State Park, there is no direct cost to the students. Trip leadership and logistics are provided by the Chewonki Foundation, one of the most highly respected environmental education organizations in the United States.
The program begins in April when participants receive required reading materials and other assignments. They then participate in online discussions and do individual research before going to the Park. After the trip, participants give public presentations to share their experiences in their schools and communities.
Maine Youth Wilderness Leaders 2022
