BRIDGTON – The annual Maine Canoe Symposium, where paddlers of all ages and abilities learn “hands-on” from North America’s canoeing professionals, will be held Friday through Sunday, June 6 to 8, at Winona Camps, Moose Pond.

Since 1986, the family-friendly weekend has drawn Americans and Canadians alike – young and old, beginners and experts – for a celebration of virtually every aspect of canoesport and camping. It is an all-volunteer, nonprofit event.

First-time paddlers go to learn fundamentals: basic strokes, safety and rescue, choosing equipment, where to go. Seasoned paddlers try new or unfamiliar techniques: poling, “sit-and-switch,” double-bladed paddling and the Northwoods stroke.

On land, workshops and demos cover everything from weather and map reading, boat and equipment building, yoga and strength training to photography, painting, journal keeping, camp cooking and wilderness exploration. There is also a separate program for children.

Workshop leaders include Maine Guides, authors, ACA and Paddle Canada instructors, national champions and backwoods gurus.

Rolf and Debra Kraiker will present a Friday night show on their travels by canoe in Norway. They are veteran canoe instructors with 25 years of experience. They have written a book, “Cradle to Canoe,” a guide to canoe camping with children.

Saturday night the Peake Brothers will recount their northern crossing on Thompson’s Trail. Since 1981 their Hide-a-way Canoe Club has tackled remote, historic and difficult trips in the boreal forest as well as the tundra.

Registration for the weekend is $65 for adults and $35 for children age 12 and under if submitted before May 1. Meals and accommodations are additional and vary according to preferred lodging and duration of stay. Family discounts are available.

www.mainecanoesymposium.org has photos and a preview of all activities, as well as information on meal and lodging options. To make reservations, contact Winona Camps at RR I, Box 868, Bridgton ME 04009 or phone 647-3721. To contact the symposium staff, e-mail [email protected] or call 892-3121. Day visitors are welcome.