Broadwater County 4-H Youth Complete Unforgettable Exchange In Pennsylvania
Author: Jennifer Beatty, Exchange Leader
Jennifer Beatty
Exchange Leader
Fifteen Broadwater County 4-H members recently returned from an enriching five-day trip to Bradford County, Pennsylvania, as part of the ongoing 4-H Interstate Exchange program. This two-year partnership connected Montana teens, ages 13–18, with 14 youth from Pennsylvania, fostering friendships, cultural exchange, and hands-on learning.
Last summer, the Montana group hosted their PA partners with experiences like horseback riding, fishing, and visits to Yellowstone National Park, the Montana State Capitol, Virginia City, and Gates of the Mountains. This June, it was their turn to travel east and explore Pennsylvania and New York.
Highlights of the trip included:
• Day 1: A full day exploring Niagara Falls, including the Maid of the Mist boat tour, Cave of the Winds, and sights of Lake Erie and Canada. The group capped the evening with mini-golf and ice cream in upstate New York.
• Day 2: A scenic five-mile kayak float down Pine Creek through the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, followed by sightseeing in Wellsboro, a movie at the historic Arcadia Theatre, and dinner and games in Troy.
• Day 3: An adventure through Penn’s Cave — America’s only all-water cavern — and a wildlife tour. Along the way, they explored the countryside of northern Pennsylvania and got a glimpse into Amish life and culture. The group later toured the World of Little League Museum and enjoyed a barbecue and pool party with host families.
• Day 4: A hands-on day touring local industries including a 1,400-cow dairy farm, Judson’s Feedmill, and a high-tech manufacturing plant. After a relaxing picnic at Mt. Pisgah Park, the group wrapped up with roller skating and one last evening of bonding and fun.
• Day 5: The final day was spent at Hershey Chocolate World and Hersheypark, before traveling to Philadelphia for dinner and heartfelt goodbyes with their Pennsylvania peers.
This exchange offered students the chance to explore new places, connect with others, and represent Montana with pride. The youth returned home tired but full of memories, growth, and gratitude — excited for future opportunities to learn from the world around them.
Special thanks and heartfelt appreciation to all the individuals, organizations, businesses, and 4-H clubs who made this trip possible. This trip could not be possible without your generous support.
If you are interested in learning more about 4-H Interstate Exchange, please contact the MSU Extension Office -- Broadwater County at 406.266.9242 or Exchange Leader, Jennifer Beatty, at 406.490.1362.
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PhotoCredit: Jennifer Beatty
Image 1 Caption: 4-H Members on Exchange Trip
Photo Credits: Jennifer Beatty
