Paynesville, Minnesota's

Crow River Trail Guards

Outdoor Adventure Rewards

Each season kids show up to work at the Nature Park in Paynesville, MN. In return for their time and hard work, they earn points. These points can then be turned in for "Outdoor Adventure Rewards."

BWCA

Each summer we travel to the beautiful and pristine BWCA Wilderness for five days of adventure. 40 points are required for this expertly guided canoe trip that impacts kids in life-changing ways.

Whitewater Rafting

Our annual whitewater rafting trip with Superior Whitewater near Carlton, MN is an exciting, wholesome, and challenging adventure that opens a door to another world for many of our young participants. Just 16 points gets them into a raft and on the water down a remote and beautiful stretch of the St. Louis River with George's well-trained and incredible staff. The guides are great role models who have given us many years of unforgetable memories.

Canoe and Kayak Picnic Cruise

For more local outdoor adventure we offer our annual canoe and kayak Picnic Cruise, which takes only 10 points. This is always a fun day in which we canoe and kayak to First Island on Lake Koronis near Paynesville, MN (with the permission of the owners). We provide a picnic lunch on the island after a morning of paddling, swimming, hiking, and exploring. This refreshing day is for Trail Guards of all ages, and takes just 10 points.

Fall Fishing Day

Usually held under the Highway 55 bridge 5 miles east of Paynesville, this rain or shine event is often facilitaed by the Minnesota DNR MinnAqua program. A fun morning of catch and release fishing by Trail Guards of all ages is followed by our mandatory group meal back at the Nature Park. We like to eat at Trail Guards, and it is bonding and nourishing to come together at a sit-down lunch after working and/or playing together. Again, just 10 points.

International Bicycle Adventure

Each Summer since 2003 we have sponsored one youth on a life-changing overseas adventure with TwoWheelView, a Minneapolis/Calgary-based non-profit organization focussed on tolerance, understanding, and personal growth through the intimate world exposure experienced from the seat of a bike. We support and assist with fund raising, trip preparation, and logistical support as needed. Please visit www.twowheelview.org to check out Rick McFerrin's excellent programs.