July 8–July 21, 2024
Ages 13–16
10 participants maximum, 2 trip leaders
Standard suggested tuition: $2,950
A 15-day expedition from Whitehall, NY to Canada by kayak! This experience takes place on the stunning waters of Lake Champlain, sharing views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains as we paddle to our destination on the Canadian border. Our days will be spent exploring the lake before reaching our next campsite and setting up camp for the night. During this experience, participants will build confidence in the wilderness while learning new skills in outdoor cooking, navigation, leadership, paddling techniques, sanitary practices, shelter set up, and Leave-No-Trace principles. Join us on this expedition through Lake Champlain and bring home valuable experiences that will prepare you for your next adventure.
Though we will each be paddling our own kayaks, teamwork is an essential part of this expedition. Learning to be a contributing member while on trail presents its own challenges that will require patience. This expedition emphasizes responsibility, engagement, and leadership as we confront daily demands and develop group dynamics.
Participants can either use their own kayak they build with us as part of our Kayak Building Camp (or previous years), or use one of the Museum’s expedition-ready kayaks. This expedition is perfect for you if you’re interested in kayaking, navigation, and backcountry camping.
Browse through photos from past kayak expeditions below.
The Outdoor Expedition Experience
Champlain Discovery is a full-time outdoor experience that takes place rain or shine. In the event of high winds or lightning our group will stay on shore; otherwise, each day we will work as a team as we travel on water, strengthening our leadership abilities by making informed and thoughtful decisions. We practice low-impact camping and there is little to no running water or bathroom access along the way. We live outside for the entirety of the expedition, sleeping in tents, preparing meals, and exploring what Lake Champlain has to offer. Each member is expected to contribute, working with your crew and rallying each other along the way.
We ask that all participants come prepared for this unique experience, our expeditions can be physically and mentally challenging but the rewards of overcoming those challenges together are worth it. Expeditions on Lake Champlain are truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at expeditions@lcmm.org.
