Girl Scout Destinations are the ultimate adventure for individual Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts. Push past your comfort zone by applying for a trip on your own, and make friends from all over the country as you travel with new Girl Scout friends. There’s a unique, life-changing experience for everyone.
As you gear up for cookie season, consider setting a big, bold goal—earning your way to a Girl Scout Destination! These incredible travel opportunities span the globe, with upcoming trips to locations like the UK, Iceland, Italy, Greece, and many destinations across the United States. Whether your dream is exploring historic landmarks, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or engaging in cultural exchanges, there’s a Destination waiting for you.
Not sure what to expect? Hear it straight from girls in our Council, Fiona M. of Troop 24626 and Ronica D. of Troop 24529, who recently embarked on their own summer adventures through Girl Scouts Destinations.
Fiona’s Destination: North Country Rock’n Wilderness
“Hi, my name is Fiona, I’m a third-year Cadette in Troop 24626. This past summer I went on the Girl Scout Destination North Country Rock’n Wilderness, which took me on a canoeing and camping trip through the Boundary Waters and Quetico. For eight days, we paddled and portaged through the Minnesota and Canadian wilderness.
When I first decided to apply for this trip, I felt pretty confident I was ready for the challenge. I’d spent several summers camping at Camp Hoover (GSHNJ), but I wanted to push myself further. This was my chance to do something new.
Once we (other Girl Scouts from all over the country) met in Minnesota, we drove to the beach and had pizza. The next day, they split all of us into two groups. Each group went to a ropes course and then to white water rafting. After that day, we were all pretty close!
Next, we got trained on ways to lift and portage the canoe. I knew pretty much everyone, and I was happy with everyone that ended up in my canoe group. Then we headed out onto the water and started making our way toward Canada. For the next 7 days, we paddled, portaged, trudged through rivers with huge packs on our backs, got bitten by a million mosquitos, cooked over campfires, slept in tents, and it was all AMAZING.
The days I spent on the water were ones I will never forget. I got so close to the people in my group! Even though I was dirtier than I had ever been, I was so happy to be there. I found new confidence and a belief that I could do hard things- really hard things. I remember carrying a huge equipment pack for a mile and being amazed that I DID THAT!”
Ronica’s Destination: Set Sail
This summer, Ronica embarked on an unforgettable journey through Girl Scout Destinations, trading her usual routine for 2 weeks on Lake Erie aboard the Lettie G. Howard, a fishing schooner built in 1893, immersing herself in adventure, exploration, and hands-on learning.
“Hi, I’m Ronica from Troop 24529, and I’m currently living on this sailboat for two weeks,” she shared with a laugh, describing her unique summer adventure. Over the past two years, she’s participated in several trips, each one leaving a lasting impact. “This is my third Destination, and each one has been such an incredible adventure,” she said. Ronica’s past Girl Scout Destinations included a scuba, sea turtle, and service trip in Costa Rica and Panama and a canoeing expedition in the Boundary Waters of the Quetico (just like Fiona!).
“This summer, I became a sailor-in-training on the Lettie G. Howard,” she explained. “I’ve spent plenty of nights on watch and even learned how to steer a 130-foot boat!” During her time on Lake Erie, Ronica didn’t just learn technical sailing skills—she also strengthened her connection with other Girl Scouts. “I’ve had such an amazing time so far,” she shared. “I’m learning knots, exploring new areas, and making so many friends with sister Girl Scouts.” Each night on the boat brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. From navigating night watches to mastering the art of teamwork on deck.
Make Destinations Your Cookie Season Goal!
For many Girl Scouts, cookie season is more than just a time to hone business skills—it’s an opportunity to fund incredible adventures like Fiona and Ronica’s. Setting a Destination as your goal can motivate you to reach new heights in your cookie sales and beyond.
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida even offers scholarships to help make these experiences more accessible, so don’t let costs hold you back from applying. Destinations are an investment in your growth, confidence, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Applications are open now, and these trips fill up fast! Head to the Girl Scout Destinations website to explore the options and start dreaming of your next adventure. Let this cookie season be the one where you turn your goals into the journey of a lifetime!