2026 Junior Guides Advanced Group Takes Learning Outdoors
August 25, 2026
The 2026 Junior Guides Advanced Group enjoyed an active and memorable season of outdoor learning, skill building, and adventure throughout the Rangeley region.
While the Junior Guides Program has long introduced young people to the area’s outdoor traditions, natural resources, and community, this year’s Advanced Group spent nearly all of its time beyond the classroom. From fishing and hiking to water rescue, first aid, shooting sports, and kayaking, participants learned directly from local guides, instructors, first responders, and volunteers who generously shared their knowledge and experience.
The program began with a fly-fishing refresher led by David Erickson, followed by an afternoon of fishing on the pond. The group then headed outdoors again for a hike up Bald Mountain with Jeff Zapolsky and Don Mantovani, building both confidence and appreciation for the region’s trails and mountain landscapes.
A highlight of the second day was a trip to Kennebago Lake, hosted by Nat Thompson and the Kennebago Lake Association. Junior Guides spent the day fishing with local guides, followed by a cookout lunch and swimming. The experience gave participants an opportunity to enjoy one of the region’s treasured waters while learning more about fishing, boating, and responsible recreation.
Shooting sports were the focus of the third day. At the RRGSA rifle range, Dave Kretzing led a rifle-shooting session that emphasized safety, range rules, and proper etiquette. In the afternoon, Brent England introduced the group to archery, again reinforcing the importance of responsibility, focus, and respect for equipment and fellow participants.
Water Safety Day brought the group to Rangeley Lake with Chief Bacon and the Rangeley Fire and Rescue Department. Junior Guides helped inflate a rescue boat and participated in a simulated rescue of Chief Bacon from the water—an engaging, hands-on way to learn about emergency preparedness and water safety. That afternoon, Game Wardens Maddie Killian and Avery Bucher visited with K9 partner Foster. They shared insights into the work of Maine game wardens and demonstrated Foster’s ability to locate evidence.
The Advanced Group also learned how to express appreciation for the many community members who make the program possible. On Day 5, participants practiced writing thank-you notes to the hosts and guides at Kennebago Lake. The group then traveled to Saddleback for trauma first-aid instruction with Michelle Cuna, Ski Patrol Leader. After lunch, Junior Guides visited Rangeley Trap and Skeet for shotgun shooting with Sheri Oldham. Although rain moved the session under the tent, the group still had the opportunity to learn and practice important safety procedures.
The season concluded with a kayaking trip on the Cupsuptic River, made possible by Heather Targett and Cupsuptic Campgrounds. After spending time on the water, the group gathered for lunch at the Rangeley Town Park before returning to the Clubhouse for certificates and ice cream. Parents, grandparents, and siblings joined the celebration, recognizing the accomplishments of the 2026 Advanced Group.
Throughout the six-day program, Junior Guides gained practical outdoor skills while learning the responsibility, courtesy, safety awareness, and stewardship that go hand in hand with enjoying the Rangeley region’s woods and waters.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the many individuals and organizations that helped make this season possible, including David Erickson, Jeff Zapolsky, Don Mantovani, Nat Thompson, the Kennebago Lake Association and its guides, Dave Kretzing, Brent England, Chief Bacon, Rangeley Fire and Rescue, Game Wardens Maddie Killian and Avery Bucher, K9 Foster, Michelle Cuna and Saddleback Ski Patrol, Sheri Oldham, Rangeley Trap and Skeet, Heather Targett, Cupsuptic Campgrounds, and all of the volunteers, instructors, families, and supporters who contribute their time and expertise to Junior Guides.
Congratulations to the 2026 Junior Guides Advanced Group. We are grateful to everyone who helped create another season of outdoor learning, friendship, and lasting Rangeley memories.
