Birchbark Expeditions

Birchbark Expeditions Adirondack 7-Day Adventure

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Our newest program, based in the beautiful New York Adirondacks Saint Regis Canoe Area.  A summary of the program:

  • Basecamp operations from Camp Mountaineer in Massawepie Scout Reservation near Tupper Lake, NY
  • A full day of on-water and in-camp training
  • A cultural tour of the Adirondack Wild Center or the Six Nations Indian Museum
  • 5-day backcountry canoe trek expedition 
  • Optional day hike in the High Peaks (shortens canoe trek)
  • All in-camp and backcountry meals
  • A full-trained and seasoned guide for the entire duration
  • Use of a complete crew gear kit with tents, rain tarp, and kitchen gear
  • Canoes, paddles, PFDs and required safety gear
  • Souvenir tee-shirt and water bottle
  • A life-time of memories and skills!  

Expedition Overview:

The program is open to Scouts BSA and Venture Scouts at least 13 years old and a "swimmer".  Crews can range from 5 to 9 participants and must include at least two adults.    

Expeditions start on Saturday at 1PM at our basecamp at Camp Mountaineer in the Massawepie Scout Camps, near Tupper Lake, NY. Here crews will meet their highly-trained Guide for the duration of our trip. Upon arrival, crews are provisioned with all necessary back country food and crew equipment, including: canoes, paddles, PFDs, tents and cooking equipment.  (Each participant must bring some basic high-adventure personal equipment.) Saturday afternoon, crews will spend time working on their paddling skills and explore the camp lake. Crews will also sort and pack their food, enjoy a meal prepared by their guide, and overnight at basecamp their own tents.  On Sunday, crews will prepare breakfast and depart for either a cultural activity or planned hike, returning to basecamp in the afternoon for additional training.

Monday through Friday have crews following their custom pre-planned itinerary through the pristine lakes and forests of Adirondack Park, enjoying the incredible views, wildlife and camaraderie.  Many treks include an opportunity for a day hike to a summit.

Crews return to base camp on Friday afternoon, clean up and check in their crew gear, take a hot shower.  Crews depart Friday afternoon or early Saturday morning, depending on the length of their drive home.

What our Fans Say:

"Definitely a good value considering you guys handled the training, all the logistics for sites, canoes, tours, meals, etc,and the communication up to, during, and after the trip has been excellent."
           
- Carl Chudzinski, Scoutmaster of Troop 456

"This is an excellent council-run BSA High Adventure program ... at a fantastic price point."
           
- Scott Oeth, Bull Moose Patrol, Maine Guide and Scouting Volunteer

"Do it! It will be a challenging, rewarding and fun experience that you won't regret. You will get the opportunity to do things you haven't done before, go to new places, learn new skills, and have an adventure!"
           - Molly Jackson, Troop 1485 

"It's an experience that the Scouts (and Scouters) will remember for a lifetime."
           
- Matthew Goldhawk, Troop 261

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Pricing

Pricing for the 2024 season:

Algonquin Adventure: $545/person

Adirondack Adventure: $495/person

Small crews of 5-6: add $25/person upcharge

To secure a reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $400 is required per crew at the time of reservation.  The program is all-inclusive, including food, use of canoes, crew gear, safety equipment, and a highly-trained guide for the week.   Crews must provide their own transportation. 

 

Registration

Current availability for the upcoming season as follows: 

Birchbark Expeditions 2024 Availability:

Week Dates Location Available Crew Slots
3 July 27th-Aug 3rd Adirondacks 5
4 Aug 3rd-Aug 10th Adirondacks 3

 

Don't delay, book your adventure today!

Learn More
Request a Presentation
  Get Started
Request a Reservation

Questions?  Drop us a note at birchbark@wnyscouting.org 

Sponsors and Supporters

Birchbark Expeditions would not be able to operate with the financial support and contributions from our sponsors and community of supporters.   Thanks to all of you for making the program possible!