When the Outdoor Adventure crew returned to the Hilltop after a three-day canoeing trip on the Saco River in the White Mountains, they brought back not only stories shared around the campfire but also a newfound appreciation for nature, a collection of new skills, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Outdoor Adventure is an afternoon activity that provides students the opportunity to explore the Pomfret Woods and regional parks. Each fall, the crew participates in a variety of outdoor activities, from rock climbing and hiking to camping and canoeing. Along the way, they not only discover new hobbies and hone their outdoor skills, they also experience moments of challenge and growth.

Already this year, the group has explored Old Furnace State Park and strengthened their teamwork on a low ropes course. All of this was preparation for their first major adventure of the year — a three-day canoeing trip on the Saco River.

Before setting off, students learned canoeing fundamentals — from different paddle strokes to how to pack and prepare for a wilderness trip. As they arrived at the Saco River, excitement mixed with a bit of nervousness filled the air. They quickly ate lunch, launched their canoes, and paddled through six miles of serene water until reaching their campsite.

They fired up the backpack stoves and fried up a pizza dinner. After a delicious meal they cooked themselves, they gathered around the campfire and swapped stories before turning in for the night. 

Rising the next morning, they cleaned up their camp and headed out for another enjoyable day on the river. After canoeing nine miles, which took up most of the day, they stopped and set up camp on the sandy river's edge for the night. “We had some free time. Some of us caught frogs, others floated in the river, and I took a nap by the river to recharge,” shares Yige Yuan ’27.

As the days on the river passed, the Outdoor Adventurers bonded through shared experiences, building a sense of community that’s a hallmark of the Outdoor Adventure program. “I’ve formed deeper connections with my friends during our late-night conversations,” Yige says. “There were tough times, like when we lagged behind other canoes, but everyone would wait for us to ensure we were never left behind. I know my friends have my back, which always gives me the energy to push on.”

The trip wasn’t just about friendship and fun, though. It deepened the students’ appreciation for nature. “I’ve developed a new sense of gratitude for the outdoors,” Yige reflected. “Whether it was watching the changing foliage as we paddled or listening to the sounds of the river at night, it was truly beautiful.”

On the final morning, there was a quiet sense of wistfulness as the adventure came to an end. But the lessons learned — about perseverance, teamwork, and the beauty of the natural world — will stay with them as they prepare for their next big adventure.

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