Scouts go paddling down the river

Foreground selfie photographer is Amanda Duchette. Left to eight, Jeff Morton, Marlene Lajoie, Tristan Morton, Brian Franklin, Ian Martin, Zach Corson, Anthony Fortin, Jon Martin, Trenton Franklin, Nancy Corson, and Winston Duchette. (contributed photo)

by Chuck Mahaleris

Scouts from Augusta Troop #603 spent time boating and hiking this autumn with two big adventures. On September 14, a large group of Scouts and parents and leaders boarded kayaks and canoes to paddle along the Kennebec River, from Waterville to Augusta. Nancy Corson, of Windsor, said, “This was a great experience for me and Zachary. We had a great time and it was tons of fun.” Scouts floated from the Waterville boat landing to Arsenal Street, in Augusta, making a trip of more than 16 miles. It was a full day on the water as they left at 9 a.m., arriving in Augusta at 3 p.m. Along the way they saw plenty of nature including a Great Blue Heron.

The next trek, which took place over the weekend of October 11-13, was at Acadia National Park, where three Scouts and two leaders camped out and then hiked the popular Cadillac Mountain – the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cadillac Summit Trail brought them to 1,530 feet above sea level during their five-mile hike. “We focus on encouraging the Scouts to have fun,” said leader Michael Fortin. “The advancement falls into place on its own with each activity we do. We want them to gain experience and challenge themselves.”

Troop #603 leader Jon Martin agreed, “I think they really enjoyed testing their abilities and independence.” A larger group of Scouts joined the troop on the Acadia trip in August.

Troop #603, which is open to both boy and girls aged 11-18, meets at the American Legion, on Eastern Avenue, in Augusta, each Thursday evening, at 6:30 p.m.

Zach Corson, of Windsor, coasting in his kayak.