Summer activities
Paddle challenge
Explore the stunning waters of the Northeast Kingdom. Paddle any 10 lakes, ponds, or rivers in the NEK by August 31, 2025 and earn your badge. The first 50 finishers get a Paddle Challenge sticker. Pick up your sticker at Pond-a-Thon or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Brighton Recreation
2025 Paddle Challenge
PO Box 163 Island Pond VT 05846
Pickleball clinic
Wondering what all the hype is about – and how to get in on the game? Join us for an introduction to pickleball. Learn the rules, pick up some tips and tricks, and try it out with a few rounds of friendly play.
**Must Be 16 Years of Age or Older**
children's archery
NorthWoods Stewardship Center is coming to town, and they’re bringing their bows! Children’s Archery is a great introduction to the skills and adventure of the sport. Ages 6+.
(NorthWoods will bring atlatls for younger participants who find drawing the bow too challenging)
AXE THROWING
Come on… You know you want to! Channel your inner warrior (with fully trained, safety-conscious NorthWoods staff). We’ll cover the skills and form you need to hit your target, and NorthWoods will even let us have a go with atlatls and bows.
This is one of our very few paid activities. $20 for an evening out, trying something different? Sign us up…. and sign YOU up. (Must be 18+)
FAMILY DIRT ROAD RIDE
Ready for a 2.5 mile gravel ride through some beautiful country? Departing from the State Park Beach, we’ll go out to the junction of Head of the Pond Road and return to town. Expect a gradual hill climb of about 300 feet. Water at finish line. Turn around and return to town any time – just make sure to check out so we can account for all participants.
Transportation available from Brighton Town Hall to the State Park Beach for bicycles ONLY. Let us know in registration if you’re meeting us at Town Hall or the State Beach. HELMETS REQUIRED!
FULL MOON PADDLE
Take in the spectacle of the full moon on Spectacle Pond. We launch at 7:30pm, and for the next 90 minutes, we’ll enjoy the sunset and the “Sturgeon Moon.”
Life jackets are required to be worn, and paddlers must have a headlamp or headlight. Boat lights are also encouraged, though not required. Due to a small parking area, consolidate vehicles as much as possible!
