2026 Junior Guides Basic Group Celebrates 30 Years of Outdoor Learning
August 25, 2026
The 2026 Junior Guides Program wrapped up another memorable season of adventure, hands-on learning, laughter, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors and the Rangeley community.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Junior Guides Program continues to introduce young people to the traditions, skills, history, and natural resources that make the Rangeley region so special. This year’s Basic Group embraced every opportunity to learn, explore, and have fun.
The first days of the program focused on what it means to be a good guide. Junior Guides learned about ethical hunting practices with Jason Latham of the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust; explored Rangeley’s outdoor heritage during a visit to the Outdoor Heritage Museum; and learned about land stewardship with Jenna Payne of the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust.
The group also studied maps and compasses with Tanya Baron before putting new navigation skills to the test during a scavenger hunt. Brent England led a basic first-aid lesson, while games, dancing, and even frog-catching added plenty of fun to the learning experience.
During the second week, participants spent even more time exploring the natural world firsthand. A field trip to South Bog Stream and continued exploration around the Clubhouse pond introduced the Junior Guides to the fascinating world of aquatic insects. Their discoveries included caddisfly larvae, mayfly nymphs, scorpion bugs, and water boatman bugs.
The group also learned the art of fly tying with John Rousseau, then had the opportunity to use their newly tied flies during a fly-fishing lesson with Sara Smith. David Erickson assisted with the Basic Group fly-fishing session, helping introduce the young anglers to one of the Rangeley region’s most treasured outdoor traditions. Although no fish were caught, the day provided plenty of fun, practice, and learning on the water.
Additional program activities included an archery lesson with Brent England; a discussion of hunting and trapping with Sam Spaulding, including a challenge to identify animal furs; and a weather lesson with Rangeley’s well-known weatherman, Russ Murley. Murley helped participants understand why changing weather conditions matter when planning a hunting, boating, camping, or other outdoor adventure.
Water Safety Day offered another opportunity for hands-on learning. After discussing important water-safety practices, the Junior Guides headed onto the pond on paddle boards and canoes. Rivers Edge Sports generously provided the paddle boards for the activity. Kim Syrel later introduced the group to different tree species. When stormy weather moved in, the group adapted by moving indoors to work together to set up a tent, create artwork, and make survival bracelets.
The final day began with a visit to the Maine Forestry Museum, where Scott Stevens provided a tour and introduced Junior Guides to the equipment, history, and legacy of the region’s logging industry. The group then headed to Town Park Beach for lunch, swimming, and fun in the sun, with Erin Pathiakis serving as lifeguard.
The season concluded with an ice cream party, giving the young guides one final opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, friendships, and shared adventures.
Throughout the program, participants were encouraged not only to learn about the outdoors, but also to understand the responsibility that comes with enjoying and protecting it. They built practical skills, explored local history and natural resources, and developed a greater appreciation for the people and traditions that make Rangeley a special place.
The success of the Junior Guides Program reflects the generosity and strength of the Rangeley community. A heartfelt thank-you goes to all of the volunteers, presenters, organizations, and local businesses that helped make the 2026 season possible, including Jason Latham, Jenna Payne, Kathryn Ransome, Tanya Baron, Brent England, Jim Quimby, Logan Messina, John Rousseau, Sara Smith, David Erickson, Sam Spaulding, Russ Murley, Kim Syrel, Scott Stevens, Erin Pathiakis, Rivers Edge Sports, the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust, the Outdoor Heritage Museum, and the Maine Forestry Museum.
Special thanks also go to the lead teachers and Junior Counselors whose time, energy, and enthusiasm made the program possible. Lead teachers included Karon Noyes, Sue Lewis, Bill Lewis, Ashley Greene, Tanya Baron, Dano Archibee, Beth Carroll, and Kathryn Ransome. Junior Counselors included Tess, Natalie, Dakota, Maddie, and Hunter.
The Junior Guides Program is grateful to every person who shared time, knowledge, equipment, stories, and encouragement with this year’s participants. Their generosity helps the next generation experience the outdoors, learn traditional skills, discover the history of their community, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the Rangeley region.
To the 2026 Junior Guides: keep exploring, keep learning, and keep having adventures—always safely. The program looks forward to welcoming the Basic Group back next year as the Advanced Group.