The Northwoods Stewardship Center offers outdoor spaces for recreation, education, and stewardship with the goal of connecting people with nature. Located in Vermont, this center focuses on providing accessible opportunities for everyone to explore the outdoors, from hiking to environmental education programs. It’s a community hub where the goal is not just to enjoy nature but to protect it for future generations. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a beginner, the Northwoods Stewardship Center is committed to making the wilderness feel like it’s for everyone.

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• Provides accessible trails for different mobility levels.

• Offers adaptive programs, like guided hikes for people with disabilities.

• Partners with local schools and organizations to bring outdoor activities to all.

• Offers family-friendly, low-barrier activities to foster a love for nature.

• Provides resources for environmental education that are inclusive and engaging.

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Programs:

• The NorthWoods Conservation Corps: A hands-on conservation-based education and employment program providing local youth with conservation training and environmental education.

• Adult Backcountry Trail Crew: A program designed to help individuals build skills and experience in backcountry trail work, while participating in conservation efforts in the region.

• Youth Conservation Corps: In partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this program allows youth to work on conservation projects with the supervision of NorthWoods directors and USFWS people. 

• Women’s + Youth Crew: All-female crew that works on conservation projects in a supportive, gender-focused environment.

• Backcountry Youth Crew: A backcountry program where youth work and camp out of a “spike” camp while participating in outdoor conservation efforts. 

• All Persons Trail: A trail specifically designed to be accessible for people using wheelchairs, adaptive equipment, mobility aids and strollers. 

• Winter Ecology Ski Snowshoe Tours: Guided tours focused on teaching people about the natural world during winter skiing or snowshoeing. 

• Winter Day Camps: Camps that allow kids to explore NorthWoods via skis, snowshoes or sleds. 

• Snow Sisters: A camp for girls to build relationships with each other and the natural world through games, adventure and crafts. 

• Canoe Camp: A four day, three night adventure along the Connecticut River, using traditional canoes to explore the waters. 

• Kit and Cub Day Camps: A day camp where young kids engage in nature-based activities like stories, games, crafts, and outdoor exploration.

• Backcountry Olympics Camp: A camp where campers participate in activities like crosscut sawing archery and ax throwing in a backcountry Olympics-style event. 

• Woods & Waters Day Camp: Blends science, education, and outdoor sports.

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Dashney Nordic Ski Center: Located in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Dashney Nordic Ski Center is for Nordic skiing lovers of all skill levels. With an emphasis on creating accessible experiences for all, the center offers miles of groomed trails perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. Its commitment to inclusion means that anyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes, can enjoy these trails. Whether you're an experienced skier or just learning, Dashney has options for everyone to get out there and enjoy the snow.

• Features trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

• Offers adaptive skiing programs, including sit-ski rentals for people with mobility challenges.

• Promotes youth and family-friendly events to engage everyone.

• Provides accessible parking and easy access to the trailhead.

• A focus on making the beauty of Nordic skiing available to all abilities.

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Programs:

• Adaptive Skiing Program: Offering sit-ski rentals and instruction for individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy Nordic skiing.

• Learn-to-Ski Clinics: Beginner-friendly programs designed to introduce new skiers to the sport in an accessible way.

• Youth and Family Ski Days: Events that encourage families to experience Nordic skiing together, with adaptive equipment available.

• Dog-Friendly Trails: A designated loop allows visitors to enjoy the trails with their dogs, promoting inclusivity for pet owners. ​

• Diverse Trail Network: With 11-15 km of groomed trails suitable for both classic and skate skiing, the center caters to various skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find suitable terrain.

• Affordable Day Passes: offers reasonably priced day passes for skiing and snowshoeing, making winter sports more accessible to individuals and families on a budget.

• Suggested Donation Model: Some programs at Dashney operate on a suggested donation basis, particularly for non-profit events or activities. This model allows people to pay what they can afford, meant for people who may not have the means to pay full fees.

• Discounted Family and Group Rates: Dashney offers group rates and discounts for families, which helps make their services more affordable for larger groups or families looking to enjoy winter sports together. 

• Scholarships and Sponsorships: In partnership with local organizations, they offer scholarships or sponsored opportunities for people who might otherwise be unable to participate due to financial constraints.