Summer activities

Paddle Events

Explore the ponds and rivers of the Northeast Kingdom! Choose the paddle adventure that sparks your interest. Our guided outings are selected for easy access, calm flatwater, and beautiful scenery.

Participants must provide their own kayak or canoe and handle their own boat transportation due to limited space.

Unless otherwise noted, all trips meet at the Brighton Town Hall, 49 Mill St Ext, Island Pond.

Select Paddle locations here

the great island pond canoe race Sunday, September 6

Are you good… or are you GREAT? Put your speed, technique, and paddling skills to the test at the annual Great Island Pond Canoe Race!

Participants will paddle from the Town Beach, around the island, and back—either in a canoe (solo or tandem) or a single kayak. Recreational canoes of any length and recreational kayaks 12 feet or under are welcome.

Every competitor must wear a life jacket.

Sign up yourself or your team—and get ready to paddle

Register Here

Hiking the NEK

Experience the sights and sounds of nature—one step at a time. Join us for a selection of guided hikes chosen to accommodate a range of abilities and showcase a variety of scenic highlights throughout the NEK.

Unless otherwise noted, all hikes meet at Brighton Town Hall, 49 Mill St Ext, Island Pond. Because some trailheads have limited parking, vehicle consolidation may be required.

Select Hikes here

BIke Island Pond

We have selected a series of group bike rides designed for riders of all levels. Routes may include smooth paved roads, rolling gravel paths, and even scenic deep‑woods logging roads throughout the Island Pond area.

Choose the rides that interest you and register in advance. All rides meet at Brighton Town Hall, 49 Mill St. Ext., Island Pond at the scheduled start time. Participants are responsible for transporting themselves, their bikes, and any passengers to the ride location.

All rides are e‑bike friendly.

Select Ride(s) here

Pickleball

Pickleball is one of the fastest‑growing sports in the country—now’s the perfect time to give it a try. Join Brighton Recreation at the Island Pond tennis courts to learn the basics, build your skills, and enjoy a few friendly rounds of play.

Whether you’re brand‑new to the game or already have experience, players of all skill levels are welcome. Equipment is available for use, even outside of organized sessions.

Come get active, meet new people, and see for yourself why pickleball has become such a fun and popular sport.

We provide equipment and have equipment available 24/7!

Select events here