Celebrating 20 Years of Outdoor Connection!
Our Story and the Path Ahead
What began in 2006, when Carol and Bob Leone founded Teens to Trails in memory of their daughter Sara, has grown into a robust network of school-based Outdoor Clubs, year-round programs, gear access, scholarships, and comprehensive support for educators and youth across Maine.
We are filled with gratitude for the thousands of students, teachers, administrators, Outdoor Club leaders, staff, board members, and partner organizations who have helped turn this simple idea into a statewide movement.
As we celebrate two decades of impact, we are also looking ahead. Guided by a new strategic plan, 2026 is focused on expanding access to more schools, supporting the educators who make Outdoor Clubs possible, and finding new and creative ways to provide life-changing outdoor experiences for Maine students. Together, we will honor our history while taking bold steps forward to help young people build confidence as leaders, experience the benefits of time spent outside, and strengthen the connections that sustain this work for generations to come.
A Journey Through 20 Years
Connecting Maine teens to the outdoors since 2006.
“We are so grateful to Teens to Trails for supporting us with middle school programs, training, and staff guidance. Having a community of Outdoor Club leaders to connect with has been incredibly helpful!”
Helen Jolley – Outdoor Club Advisor, Conners Emerson School
“Life really does happen outside!
As a Master Maine Guide and avid paddler,
I joined the Teens to Trails board in the early years, when the mission was simple: get
teens outdoors. For 20 years, I have seen
teens arrive nervous and leave confident,
shaped by paddles on the Northern Forest
Canoe Trail, Outing Club days, and so many
first adventures. I am proud to have played a small part in that.”
David Butler - Teens to Trails Volunteer and
Master Maine Recreational Guide
“We would not and could not exist
without the support of Teens to Trails.
You do so much to make our club
possible for both students and advisors, and we appreciate you immensely!”
Michelle Martin – Outdoor Club
Advisor, Houlton High School
“From the first time I worked with Teens to Trails, I realized outing clubs aren’t alone. The shared vision, resources, and passion for getting teens outside are what make this work possible. Many Maine districts couldn’t do it without Teens to Trails connecting leaders and providing support.”
Cory Snow - South Portland Outdoor Club Advisor
Share Your Story with us!
For 20 years, Teens to Trails has been shaped by the students, educators, Outdoor Club leaders, volunteers, and partners who make outdoor experiences possible across Maine. Many of the most meaningful moments don’t show up in reports, they happen outside, together.
Whether you’re a student, educator, partner, or alum, we would love to hear how Teens to Trails has been part of your journey.
Maybe it was a first hike, a leadership moment, a scholarship experience, or a day outside that changed how you saw yourself or your community. Big or small, every story helps tell the impact of Teens to Trails and inspire future students.
Share your story, photos, or memories by completing the form below.