MOOSEHEAD: WORLD CLASS ADVENTURES
P. 59
BIKES & BREWS P. 39
Connecting you to the BEST Maine adventures since 1984 activitymaine.com
Take it outside... – F un outdoor adventures that count as fitness P. 22
–C ampgrounds with a real wilderness feel, without the long drive P. 45 – 5 can't miss Downeast hikes P. 82
+ wildlife
photography How to photograph whales & other elusive wildlife P. 80
ALONE
summer / fall 2017
Maine father & son duo take on the History Channel’s toughest reality competition P. 52 Display thru October, 2017
Southern Maine’S CaSino 24/7 CaSino aCtion
26
Lewiston/ Auburn
11
95 26
196
EXIT 63 Gray
95
295
Portland
The fun never stops Oxford Casino is southern Maine’s at Oxford Casino! Over home for wicked good fun! 850 state-of-the-art slot machines, 28 heart-pounding table games and delicious food, only minutes from Portland. Persons under 21 years of age may not enter the restaurant or casino unless licensed as employees. Gambling problem? In Maine, call 2-1-1 or (800) 522-4700 for help.
Southern Maine’s Casino! OxfordCasino.com
FIND US ON
SUMMER/FALL 2017
58
FEATURES 80 7 KITTERY TO
KENNEBUNK Travel ideas
22 TAKE IT OUTSIDE
Fun outdoor adventures that count as fitness
25 RUNNING
32
ON THE COVER:
80 WILDLIFE
45 MAKING CAMP
82 DOWNEAST
IN WESTERN MAINE An introspective journey Campgrounds with real wilderness feel without the long drive
47 HIGH PEAKS
Maine’s fabled region of outdoor recreation Father & son team from Maine battle the History Channel’s toughest reality competition
32 CAMPING GEAR
59 MOOSEHEAD
39 BIKES & BREWS Group rides in Norway Maine
PHOTOGRAPHY Take your best shot Five Can’t Miss Hikes
52
22 82
52 ALONE
GROUPS Find camaraderie on trails & roads WISH LIST This Seasons MUST Haves!
Photo courtesy of Michael Wilson Inset photo courtesy of HISTORY
40 QUIET PADDLING
Experience this region’s world-class adventures
68 GEORGETOWN
Celebration of the Arts
activitymaine.com 3
WELCOME to the Guide T
REGIONS & EVENTS
his 34 edition is dedicated to my dad, founding publisher of The Activities Guide of Maine, who unexpectedly passed in January. You can read the dedication on the next page. th
THE COUNTY
The Activities Guide of Maine, born from a passion for adventure, offers you the opportunity to discover exciting travel and recreational opportunities around Maine. Combining the experiences and resources of our advertisers, world class partners, writers and contributors we bring you a unique selection of ideas that range widely in their destinations and activities, yet tied together by a basic principle, have fun in Maine! The multitude of advertisements are the presentations of good people who live and work here. They have something of value to offer you and they sincerely want the opportunity to meet and serve you. They are our friends and we hope they will become yours as well...We’ll see you out there!
— Stanley J. Rintz, III
9 Susan’s Way, Windham, ME 04062 www.activitymaine.com stan@activitymaine.com (207) 671-7230
PUBLISHER
Stanley J. Rintz III
FOUNDING PUBLISHERS
MOOSEHEAD 59
Stanley & Barbara Rintz
SENIOR EDITOR Jim Harnedy
ART DIRECTOR Larissa Davis
HIGH PEAKS 50
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Robin Bean Kristina Roderick Elizabeth Berry MacKenney
RANGELEY & OQUOSSOC 47 BETHEL 42 DOWN EAST 78 FARMINGTON/ WILTON 54
BANGOR 62
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Kristina Roderick
CONTENT MANAGER Kay Stephens
MID-COAST 64 WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS 27
PHOTOGRAPHY
KITTERY AND THE KENNEBUNKS 7
Mike Leonard Carol Savage Robbie Martin
ADVERTISING SALES
7 KITTERY & THE KENNEBUNKS
SUBSCRIBE
55 THE
17 PORTLAND
64 MID-COAST
27 WESTERN
78 DOWNEAST
LAKES & MOUNTAINS
42 BETHEL 47 RANGELEY
SEE PAGE 63 4 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO: JEN DERASPE
50 HIGH PEAKS
Get the Best Deal
& WILMINGTON
12 THE SOUTH COAST
CRAFT BEER • ADVENTURE • RACES & FITNESS
54 FARMINGTON
HIGHLANDS
Jim Harnedy Stanley J. Rintz Sr. Ellie Stengel Ann-Marie Rintz
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shannon Bryan Bobbie Randolf Fran Folsom Carey Kish Kay Stephens Lafe Low Johanna Billings Jim Harnedy
OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Marissa Gianino
MEMBER
Maine Tourism Association Convention & Visitors Bureau Maine Merchant’s Association Chambers of Commerce
A Publisher’s Tribute T
his Summer/Fall Issue is dedicated to our Publishing founder Stanley J. Rintz II,
Born June 27th, 1930 and died
this past January 2, 2017. This one is for you Dad. Stan Rintz Sr. began this magazine as The Regional Activities Guide of Maine in 1984. Though his life led him through careers of engineering, manufacturing and sales, his magazine experience actually began in the late 1940’s at Forbes Magazine in New York, New York. Early on he used his engineering mind to incorporate a way to improve their mailing operations when he worked there along side other family members. course he still retained his relationships
grieving beyond our immediate family
from VP of manufacturing at London Fog
with many sales accounts in the
and friends to the businesses whom
to Publisher of this Magazine. He was
Mid-Coast and Western Maine regions.
he and my mother Barbara, befriended
He lived his life to make things better,
a very generous family man and was
Charged with the task of reaching out
through sales and publishing for over 33
to his advertising clients to let them
years. Everyone knows we lost one of the
know the sad news, I could palpate their
greats. Rest easy Dad and watch over us
he had more than the “gift of gab,” he
genuine sorrow when they heard he
as we take Activity Maine to new heights.
had a sincere interest in people and he
had passed. I was heartened by hearing
valued his relationships. He asked a lot
how his interactions went with his
of questions about how you were doing
customers, some of them he has worked
and brought humor and good cheer
with for 30 years! Most would say, “he’s
with him. I always learned from him
quite a character!” or mention how he
by seeing how he interacted with close
raved about his wife and family. One of
friends, family and even while riding
his clients said “Whenever Stan called,
along with him on his sales calls.
tell him it’s a yes!” He had an ease about
always on a mission. Conversations with him were so easy,
Right up until the time of his
him and a lovable charm. Everyone
unexpected passing, he was in good
enjoyed his visits or calls and it was
health and still an active part of Activity
comforting to hear all the good things
Maine as a trusted consultant and of
people had to say. It opened up the
You did it your way! We love you!
1 IN 400 MAINERS HAVE MS
Early and on-going treatment with FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional and contracting the National MS Society at MSNEWENGLAD.ORG or 1-800-344-4867.
Ready for the ride of a lifetime? Great Maine Getaway Ride
August 12–13
Start/Finish at University of New England
www.bikemsmaine.org
— Use Code MAGME20 for $20 off Registration! —
Don’t just ride, Bike MS
KITTERY TO THE KENNEBUNKS W
ELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL SOUTHERN MAINE! Coastal Kittery is home to numerous factory outlet shopping malls, Kittery Naval Shipyard and an extensive Maine Tourism Information Center. Also visit local Chamber of Commerce Offices for more information bout  various towns and events throughout the region.
KITTERY TO KENNEBUNKS
WELLS
Miles of Beautiful Sandy Beaches
Family Owned & Operated
5 Miles to Ogunquit or Kennebunkport
OVERLOOKING THE OCEAN U.S. ROUTE 1 WELLS
Wi-Fi • 50 Amp • Cable TV
New Pool and Kiddie Pool Large Store • Putting Green 18 Hole Mini Golf • Rec Field Playground • Basketball • Bocce Horseshoes • Fitness Classes Recreation Hall/Function Room Picnic Tables and Fireplaces Shaded Tent Sites • Laundry Leashed Pets Welcome
(207) 646-7732
PHOTO COURTESY OF LIBBY'S OCEANSIDE CAMP
seavu@maine.rr.com
1733 Post Road, PO Box 67 • Wells, ME 04090
www.sea-vucampground.com
www.Sea-VuWest.com Cable TV • Free WiFi • Store Big Rigs • Extra Large Sites Full Hookups (30/50 amp) Pool and Kiddie Pool • Hot Tub Playground • Game Room Pickle Ball • Bocce Horseshoes • Basketball Putting Green • Walking Trails Campground Sponsored Activities throughout Season Trolley to Beach, Shopping, Restaurants and Attractions.
Nightly & Extended Stay Camping • Sorry, No Tents Groups Welcome • Pet Friendly
PO Box 815 (23 College Dr.) • Wells Beach, ME 04090
(207) 646-0785 • info@sea-vuwest.com
8 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO DONALD & JOANNE WALISZEK
KITTERY TO KENNEBUNKS KENNEBUNKPORT / WELLS
SANFORD / YORK Properties
Equity
Serving You for Over 30
Years
Our 47th Season
Wells Beach Resort and Mini-Golf Wells Beach Mini-Golf
18 Hole Mini-Golf Open Daily - Weather Permtting First Class Course with a Beautiful Nautical Theme Fun for the Whole Family! On Route 1, right next to McDonald’s
Camping at Wells Beach Resort Free Wi-Fi All Sites • Cable TV Large Store • Pool RV Friendly • 50/30/20 Amp Tent Sites with Electric Spring and Fall Discounted Rates Walk to Restaurants, Stores & More Trailer Life Rated 10/10/10
On the Extensive Trolley Route
Wells Beach Resort • 1000 Post Rd. • US Route 1 • Wells, ME 04090 www.wellsbeach.com • For Reservations 207-646-7570 or 1-800-640-CAMP One of Maine’s Top-Rated Parks and One of the Highest Rated Parks in North America. activitymaine.com 9
n u F r e m m u S
Text: BOBBIE RANDOLPH
M
ILES OF WHITE SAND, SALTWATER TAFFY, long estuaries to explore by kayak, one of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses – what’s not to love about that stretch of shore between
Resort & Mini Golf (WWW.WELLSBEACH.COM) has drive-through RV sites with full hookups, cable TV and wifi. There’s a big pool, an 18-hole mini-golf course, two
Kennebunkport and York?
playgrounds, a rec room and volleyball, The quartet of beach towns —
For a traditional shore dinner
basketball and bocce courts.
Kennebunkport, Wells, Ogunquit and
go to Mabel’s Lobster Claw (www.
York — couldn’t offer more variety.
mabelslobster.com); if you’re lucky, the
Sea-Vu Campground include shaded
Wells and York are all about families
signature Lobster Milanese – grilled
tent sites as well as RV sites with full
kicking back. Kennebunkport and
shrimp and lobster – will be on the
hook-ups, TV and wifi. Everyone loves
Ogunquit are known as more high-
day’s menu. On Route 1, taste craft
the setting overlooking the ocean, and
end enclaves, although their beautiful
beers at Sebago Brewing.
families appreciate the large pool and
beaches are open to all and each offers
WWW.SEBAGOBREWING.COM.
mini-golf course, as well as the trolley
a wide range of lodging and dining choices. Near scenic Cape Porpoise in
Get a different view of Cape Porpoise or the Kennebunk River on a guided tour with Coastal Maine Kayak and Bike
The 220 grassy sites at
stop at the front gate for car-free beach access. Sister campgrounds of Sea-Vu West and Sea-Vu South are nearby:
Kennebunkport, the affordable Rhumb
in Kennebunkport or join them for
WWW.SEA-VUCAMPGROUND.COM. Sea-Vu West
Line Resort, WWW.RHUMBLINERESORT.COM, caters
paddle board lessons or tours. They
offers spacious sites with full-hookups,
to families, with large indoor and
welcome all skill levels, and offer bike
WiFi and cable, a pool and kiddie pool,
outdoor swimming pools. Stop at Cape
and scooter rentals, too.
recreational facilities, and is on the
Porpoise Kitchen, WWW.CAPEPORPOISEKITCHEN.
WWW.COASTALMAINEKAYAK.COM
trolley route.
COM,
for take-out and picnic at Cape
The best beach at Wells is the
If camping’s not your style, Sea Mist
Porpoise with views of Goat Island
four-mile stretch north of Mile Road
Motel on Route 1 is reasonably priced
Light. Or head a mile or so north to
(park on Mile Road or Atlantic Avenue).
and has in-room kitchenettes and
Goose Rocks Beach, less known than
Only a mile from the beach and on
an indoor pool: SEAMISTMOTEL.COM. A bit
the popular ones along Beach Avenue.
the handy trolley route, Wells Beach
more upscale are the condo suites
10 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO DONALD & JOANNE WALISZEK
Summer Fun on Maine’s South Coast
KITTERY TO KENNEBUNKS at Misty Harbor Resort on Mile Road,
York is a family favorite, not only for its beaches (descriptively named Long
MISTYHARBORRESORT.COM.
Experience a different coastal
and Short Sands), but for Maine’s most
environment at the Rachel Carson
iconic lighthouse, Nubble Light at Cape
National Wildlife Refuge on Route 9.
Neddick. Add The Golden Rod,
A mile-long interpretive trail winds
WWW.THEGOLDENROD.COM,
through a coastal forest and along tidal
century for its saltwater taffy, and
marshes where sightings of heron,
New England’s only zoo/amusement
egrets and sea birds are common:
park at York’s Wild Kingdom,
WWW.FWS.GOV/REFUGE/RACHEL_CARSON.
WWW.YORKSWILDKINGDOM.COM,
Just
across a tidal creek, the Wells Reserve
at Laudholm has seven miles of walking trails. WWW.WELLSRESERVE.ORG.
The Maine Diner on Route 1 in Wells
famed over a
and you
have a winner. You can’t camp closer to the beach than at Libby’s Oceanside Camping, WWW.LIBBYSOCEANCAMPING.COM
in York Harbor,
is no secret: for more than 30 years
overlooking the mile-and-a-half Long
it’s been serving fried clams, chowder,
Sands. Owned by the third generation
blueberry pie and all the other Maine
of the family that founded it in 1923,
coast favorites: WWW.MAINEDINER.COM. Get
Libby’s offers full hook-ups, TV and free
more suggestions of things to do at the
wifi, but best of all are the ocean views
Wells Chamber of Commerce visitor
from nearly every site, and direct beach
center or check WWW.WELLSCHAMBER.COM.
access.
Don’t think all the fun is within sight of the sea. Head inland to Sanford to find Mountain View Golf Range, a family-friendly center with mini-golf, a driving range and batting cages. MOUNTAINVIEWGOLFRANGE.COM
BOBBIE RANDOLPH writes about her favorite Maine experiences, from camping and kayaking to skiing and dogsledding.
Maine Diner and Remember the Maine Gift Shop With six million customers and counting – appearances on “The Today Show” and raves from the Phantom Gourmet – it takes quite a bit to get the Maine Diner all abuzz. However, in the summer of 2010, The Maine Diner hit another milestone as they were featured on the Food Network program “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The Maine Diner has been serving delicious food for over 30 years. In addition to the extensive menu selections there are daily specials also made fresh to order. Enjoy chowders and stews, salads, seafood and steaks, comfort foods, burgers and sandwiches, and much more. Try one of their homemade desserts. Breakfast is served anytime! Be sure to visit the Remember the Maine Gift Shop located next to the Maine Diner. In May of 1997, the Gift Shop opened its doors to offer their customers an assortment of gifts from America's favorite Diner, The Maine Diner! Since opening day, Remember the Maine has grown to include gifts not only from the Maine Diner, but Maine memorabilia, collectibles, postcards, gourmet food and so much more—something for everyone.
Conveniently Located "On The Way" North or South
Celebrating Over 30 Years in Business! {:.�it 26ebUO\(, tJ\E. �eoo Route 1
1-95
Portland
Open 7 Days • Route 1 North, Wells • 207-646-4441 • MaineDiner.com activitymaine.com 11
SOUTH COASTAL
PHOTO AMANDA GAGNON
OLD ORCHARD Visit Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Scarborough for Summer Fun Text BOBBIE RANDOLPH
M
AINE’S LONGEST STRETCH OF SAND BEACH MAKES OLD ORCHARD BEACH a magnet for summer vacationers. And what a beach
Every Thursday evening there are free fireworks. With all this coastline,
Fun And Sun Rentals (WWW.FUNANDSUNRENTALS.COM) will bring you anything from
you can expect a variety
beach gear to kayaks, paddle
of water sports — surfing,
boards and sail boats —
cleaned each night by volunteers. Backed by a band of
paddleboarding, sailing,
even bicycles, delivered free
dune grass, the beach slopes gently into the surf, wide
fishing and waterskiing. Quiet
throughout the area.
it is, 7 miles of soft white sand that’s meticulously
enough so even at high tide there’s space for everyone to find their patch of sand. That’s just Old Orchard.
A few miles away in Saco, at
coves and tidal estuaries
This flat coastline is great to
invite canoes and kayaks.
explore on two wheels, and
Scarborough Marsh has miles
you can follow the Eastern
of meandering channels alive
Trail, a greenway of backroads
with birds, to explore on foot
and trails for bicycles. With beach parking often at a
Smaller beaches spread north
the 18-hole Schooner Miniature
or in a kayak or canoe.
along Scarborough’s coast,
Golf (SCHOONERMINIGOLF.NET), there’s
Black Point Surf Shop
some – such as the beautiful
a big replica schooner and
(WWW.BLACKPOINTSURFSHOP.COM) in
way to get to the beach from
Western and Ferry beaches
lighthouse, along with
Scarborough is a full-service
your campground or motel.
— protected by the long
outdoor batting cages for
surf shop, with new and used
There are bike racks on the
peninsula of Prouts Neck.
slow-pitch softball and
surfboards and all the related
shuttle buses that connect
60-mph-big-league hitters.
equipment. Their surf lessons
the beach and Amtrak station
include wetsuits and boards.
to inland lodgings.
12 summer / fall | 2017
premium, a bike is a handy
SOUTH COASTAL
events |
Old Orchard Beach
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information. JUNE 24 Captain Christopher S. Cash Memorial 5K and 3 Mile Walk 7:30 - 10:00am. Join us for the 12th annual Captain Christopher S. Cash Memorial 5K and 3 mile walk! Kid's fun run starts at 7:45am, 5K Run begins at 8:30AM, walk at 8:40am. You can register online! Race start/ finish at the Old Orchard Beach High School. Pre-Race Packet Pick up on Friday, June 24th, 2016 from 10am – 2pm, at Old Orchard Beach High School. JUNE 22 Weekly Thursday Night Fireworks Downtown! The Thur day night summer fireworks display (weather permitting). The weekly display runs every Thursday night at 9:45am through August 25th. Fireworks are set off by the Pier and Palace Playland.
AUGUST 18-20 34th Annual Old Orchard Beach Olympics 8:00am -5:00pm. Three days of gamesand fun competition including opening ceremony, live music, silent auction,all to benefit Special OlympicsMaine. Located in the town square, all are welcome! FMI 207934-2500. SEPTEMBER 16 - 17 23rd Annual Car Show Friday, September 16 Registration starts at the Chamber of Commerce (11 1st Street) from 4pm to 7pm. Car Preview Lineup on Maine Street – 4pm to 7:30pm Car Parade with police escort – 7pm to 7:30pm Saturday September 17 Car Show Registration and Car Show – 8am to 2:30pm
Ocean front rooms directly on the beach
Old Orchard Beach Campground www.gocamping.com • 207.934.4477
Stay for a Weekend, a Week or the Season!
Only 1 mile to 7 mile Beach & Pier
thebeachfront.com
~ 7 miles of beautiful Maine beach is just steps away ~ ~ Within walking distance of the famous Pier & downtown ~ ~ Variety of rooms including studios & 2 bedroom suites ~ 1 Walnut St., Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064 207-934-7434 • Email: info@thebeachfront.com
Take the Trolley to the Beach
Voted Maine’s Best Beach
Online Reservations Accepted
Deluxe RV Sites, Cable TV and Wifi Full Hook-ups (30-50 amp) Pool • Two Playgrounds • Arcade Tenting Area • Store • Laundry Open May 1st to Nov. 1st
27 Ocean Park Rd., Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064 reservations@gocamping.com
activitymaine.com 13
SOUTH COASTAL 10th Annual New England Parkinson’s Ride September 9, 2017
At the Ballpark at Old Orchard Beach, join the largest independent Team Fox fundraising event for The Micheal J Fox Foundation in the country! 10, 30, 50, and 100 Mile Routes all begin and end at The Ballpark in Old Orchard Beach. FMI: Call 603-494-1864 or visit NEPARKINSONSRIDE.COM
Also an easy walk away from
campsite before reserving.
park, Beachfront Condotel
Also within walking distance
(thebeachfront.com) has two-
of the beach, the resort-style
bedroom and studio units
Powder Horn Family Camping (WWW.
with kitchens and Jacuzzis.
MAINECAMPGROUNDS.COM)
Less than 10 minutes from
swimming pools, two Jacuzzis
The Pier are the neighboring
and an 18-hole mini-golf
budget-friendly Sea View Inn
course all free to campers.
(SEAVIEWGETAWAY.COM) motel and
Family owned Wassamki
has four
Waves Oceanfront Resort (WWW.
Springs Campground (WWW.
WAVESOCEANFRONT.COM),
WASSAMKISPRINGS.COM)
both with
in
straightforward rooms and
Scarborough—Maine’s closest
kitchenettes. Two miles
campground to Portland and
north on Grand Beach in
Casco Bay—offers vacation
Scarborough, The Holiday House
and seasonal camping, full
(WWW.HOLIDAYHOUSEINN.COM) is a bed
hookups, cable and WiFi.
& breakfast with ocean-view
Enjoy live entertainment,
rooms (some have private
planned activities, swimming,
decks), and motel rooms that
and recreational activities
include the use of a common
offered at the campground.
kitchen. RV owners and campers will
Seacoast Rv Resort (WWW. SEACOASTRESORT.COM)
in Saco, a
find plenty of options. A mile
mile from Old Orchard and
from the beach and on the
Scarborough beaches, is a
trolley route, family-operated
residential community for 110
Old Orchard Beach Campground
park model RVs only, with a
(WWW.GOCAMPING.COM) offers full
pool, hot tubs and clubhouse.
hookup delux RV sites, cable
If all the saltwater makes
TV and WiFI, a pool and
you hungry for seafood, you
recreational facilities, as well
won’t find it fresher than at
as a tenting area. Catering to families and
Ken’s Place (207-883-6611) on Pine Point Road in Scarborough.
couples only (no groups) and
Nothing fancy, but ocean-
half a mile from The Pier,
fresh fried clams, lobster rolls,
Hid'n Pines Family Campground
chowders and a raw bar.
(MAINEFAMILYCAMPING.COM) also has basic tent sites and large full-service lots, and
14 summer / fall | 2017
you can see photos of each
The Pier and amusement
Surf ME
SOUTH COASTAL SACO Schooner Miniature Golf is one of the largest miniature golf courses in the area. It features a 75 ft. schooner ship as the 11th hole, which is surrounded by its own lagoon.They have one of the only outdoor batting cages in the area with speeds ranging from 25mph slow pitch softball up to 60+mph major league and at just $1.00 per token for 16 balls. They also serve one of Maine’s favorite ice creams, SHAIN’S of Maine. Cones, shakes, sundaes and more to be enjoyed on their deck overlooking the picturesque golf course.
s u r f l e s s on s are fun for e v e ryon e PHOTO COURTESY OF BLACK POINT SURF SHOP
SCARBOROUGH
W
hether you are new to surfing or looking to hone your skills, working with a knowlegedable instructor on the beach is
a great way to spend your precious time! Meet at the beach and Black Point Surf Shop will supply the board and suit. Located in Scarborough, just minutes away from Higgins and Scarborough Beach, Black Point Surf Shot offer kids ages 6+ to adults the chance to get
Celebrating Over 20 Years!
comfortable in the water. While the main focus is on having fun, they structure lessons to encourage your individual ability to balance and paddle, while working towards standing, riding and reading a wave. With 12 years of experience following their apprenticeships in California, shop owners and board builders Andy and Ryan of McDermott Shapes are experts in ding repair, board restoration, and custom board creation. Black Point Surf Shop is ready for the summer season and excited to add to Maine’s growing surf culture. For questions or to schedule a lesson give the shop a call at 207-939-6016 or stop by.
activitymaine.com 15
SOUTH COASTAL SCARBOROUGH
Closest Campground to Portland Near Ocean Beaches, Portland's Old Port, Casco Bay, Shopping and Attractions
Free Live Entertainment and Scheduled Activities on Weekends for All Ages WiFi • Cable TV • Store • Snack Bar Big Rigs Welcome • Family Tenting Swimming • Fishing Horseshoes • Pickleball Sports Fields & Playgrounds Indoor Shuffleboard • Rec Center E,W,S 30 & 50 • Dog Run Open, Wooded & Waterfront Sites Seasonal Sites
Open May 1 - October 15
Cable TV, WiFi 50 Amp, Big Rigs Family Tenting
Wassamki Springs Campground 56 Saco Street Scarborough, ME 04074
(207) 839-4276 wassamkisprings.com
wassamkisprings@gmail.com Half Moon Jug Band
Family Owned & Operated Since 1968
Ken’s Place
Famous for Seafoods Since 1927 Fabulous Fried Clams!
Baked & Fried Foods • Children’s Menu • Air Conditioned Pine Point Rd. Scarborough, Maine 207 883-6611 • Open thru Oct.
outdoor writers & photographers wanted Email subscribe@activitymaine.com with ideas or content! 16 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO Happy guests aboard Portland
when in
PORTLAND Schooner Company's Bagheera
Be sure to check out these great businesses for adventurous activities and delicious food!
Portland Schooner Company has
you’re looking to experience the
National Register of Historic Places,
been making memories for Casco
Portland waterfront from a unique
both schooners were designed by
Bay visitors since 2002. Owned and
perspective or just hoping to step back
famed naval architect, John G. Alden,
operated by husband and wife team,
to a simpler time for a couple hours,
in the early 1900s and built by some
Scott Reischmann and Michelle
Portland Schooner Company offers an
of the best craftsmen in the world at
Thresher, they offer an authentic, Old
experience you don’t want to miss.
the shipyards of East Boothbay, Maine.
The adventure begins aboard one
Two-hour sails depart from the Maine
World sailing experience from May through October aboard Portland’s
of their classic wooden schooners,
State Pier in Portland’s Old Port and
only historic windjammers. Whether
Wendameen or Bagheera. Listed on the
are offered four times daily, presenting
activitymaine.com 17
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PORTLAND PADDLE
And you’re welcome to bring
for seals, lighthouses, wave-
food and drink, including
battered cliffs, seabirds,
beer and wine, aboard. The
hidden beaches, wooden
cost for a two-hour sail is
schooners and 19th-
just $44 for adults and $22
century granite forts.
for children. Buy tickets at
Portland Paddle’s guided
WWW.PORTLANDSCHOONER.COM,
trips and lessons are led by
or call
207-766-2500. If you’ve got more time to
licensed Maine Guides who are passionate about sharing their love of sea kayaking
visitors with a perfect
… they’re happy to share
spend on Casco Bay, Portland
vantage point for viewing
a bit of Casco Bay history
Schooner Company also
and their knowledge of the
Portland’s unforgettable
and trivia. You’re invited to
offers charters for family
history and ecology of the
sights and sounds – from
join in any way you’d like:
or corporate functions,
Maine coast. Multi-day trips,
lighthouses and seabirds to
hoisting the sails alongside
lunchtime lobster bakes
advanced paddling lessons
seals and the rocky coastline.
a deckhand, taking a turn
on scenic Cow Island, and
and rentals are also offered
The friendly, professional
at the ship’s wheel, or just
overnight excursions where
at Portland Paddle.
crew is not only there to
relaxing and enjoying the
you can spend an evening
provide you with a safe trip
ocean breeze and salt air.
nestled in a quiet island
Kon Asian Bistro Hibatchi Bar offers a wide range of
anchorage.
cuisine including sushi,
Portland Paddle offers
shrimp, steak, calamari,
and paddleboard rentals at
salmon, fillet mignon,
the East End Beach on the
lobster tail, pad thai, teriyaki,
Portland waterfront. It’s
tempura, scallop, tuna, rolls,
amazing how rugged and
sushi bar entree, orange
wild the coastline gets just
ginger duck, general tso’s
a short paddle from bustling
chicken, fried rice, fried
Portland harbor. The great
udon, soup, salad, beef. New
variety of islands in Casco
for 2017, Kon added 6 more
Bay offer endless possibilities
Hibachi tables!.
for exploration. Look out
18 summer / fall | 2017
sashimi, hibachi, chicken,
guided sea kayaking trips
SOUTH COASTAL
the gateway of the east bay Text: JOHN BREERWOOD
L ONE PINE BREWERY
In early 2016, LONE PINE BREWING began bridging the gap between domestic drinkers and beer geeks with their Portland Pale Ale. Since then, Mainers literally cannot get enough of Lone Pine’s beer, which has made owners, Tom Madden and John Paul, undergo an expansion to keep up with demand. Paul, the Director of Business, says, “Portland Pale Ale is a gateway beer, and we wanted to bring the worlds together. We targeted accounts with a limited draft selection and experienced a ton of success from that.” Due to Mainers’ insatiable demand and Lone Pine’s limited supply, Madden
and Paul brewed mostly Portland Pale Ale. However, they recently acquired more dry and cold storage space. Operating a 5-barrel brew house, Lone Pine has also purchased five new fermenters in order to increase production, which will enable them to consistently produce other brands like Brightside IPA (similar to the Portland Pale Ale, except for more prominent “juicy” hop flavor), the Tessellation DIPA (hopped exclusively with mosaic), and the Chaga Stout (brewed with Mainegrown Chaga mushrooms). They have improved the efficiency of packaging operations by contracting Iron Heart Canning. Head Brewer Madden says,
“We are way ahead of schedule which is both exciting and intimidating.” In addition to production developments, Lone Pine is offering much more for patrons and the community in 2017. Live bands play on Friday evenings. They recently did a collaboration with neighbor Urban Farm Fermentory to raise money for Portland Trails. Food trucks will also be scheduled every weekend starting in Spring. A street-side deck is planned for summer to accommodate more customers, since their taproom frequently reaches capacity. Also, they plan on experimenting with kettle sours and barrel-aging this summer.
PHOTO ELLIS DUCHARME
activitymaine.com 19
SOUTH COASTAL
FLOAT YOUR WAY TO RECOVERY
or listen to music while
Stimulation Therapy) or
you float. If you choose you
Sensory Deprivation rose
can shut both off and allow
in popularity through
your central nervous system
the sixties and seventies
some much needed time free
amongst researchers,
from external stimulation.
hippies, and athletes, it
Floating is an amazing tool used around the world
During a float session your
experienced a bit of a lull
for many reasons including relaxation, muscle
body experiences reduced
in the eighties and nineties
cortisol production, reduced
but has experienced a
inflammation, increased
resurgence in the new
of pregnancy discomfort, just to name a few. From
blood flow and dopamine
millennium with float
Olympians and Navy SEALS to busy executives and
production. It is a truly
centers opening in major
unique way to relax your
cities around the world.
recovery, pain relief, stress relief and the easement
grand parents, people everywhere are discovering how this simple practice can benefit their lives.
body and your mind. Floating was developed
As people all over are waking up to the importance
in 1954 at the National
of a healthy active lifestyle,
Inside a float tank there’s
(about 94 degrees) with the
Institute of Mental Health
floating is another tool
10’’ of water saturated with
water, your skin, and the air
in hopes of answering the
to be used along with
over 1,000 pounds of medical
all the same temperature
question “If all sensory input
massage, yoga, meditation,
grade Epsom salt, this allows
after a short while the
is removed, will the brain
and acupuncture. Try it for
you to float effortlessly on
boundary between them is
go to sleep?” That answer
yourself and see how much
the surface of the water. The
nearly indiscernible. Some
was found, along with many
better you can feel.
water and air are heated to
float tanks are equipped with
others, and even more
the same temperature as
colored lights and speakers,
questions. Floating, R.E.S.T.
the outer layer of your skin
so you can leave a light on
(Restricted Environmental
Relieve aching muscles and clear your mind! Floating in warm, Epsom salt saturated water reduces inflammation, cortisol production and can help you to reach a deep meditative state. COME IN AND FLOAT YOUR STRESS AWAY!!
floatharder.com 20 summer / fall | 2017
500 Washington Ave. Portland
RECOVERY
MUSCLE RECOVERY - PAIN MANAGEMENT - STRESS RELIEF
207.400.5187
SOUTH COASTAL
AA once once in in aa lifetime experience. experience. Sailing four times Sailingdaily. four
times daily.
two-hour sails private charters overnights 207-766-2500 portlandschooner.com
located at the Maine State Pier adjacent to Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal www.konhibachi.com
two-hour sails private charters overnights 207-766-2500
activitymaine.com 21
Take it Outside! Paddleboarding, mountain biking, and outdoor workouts for every level
Text & Photos: SHANNON BRYAN
S
AY GOODBYE TO THE TREADMILL for a while, because your sweat-inducing workouts are moving outside this summer. From mountain biking and paddleboarding to outdoor boot camps and yoga in the park, you can find an
outdoor activity that'll have you panting up a storm and loving every minute of it. You'll be on the water, on a trail, or planking in the sunshine (and that beats a
state offer lessons, including
Wheels N Waves in Wells (WWW.WHEELSNWAVES.COM), Coastal
Maine Kayak in Kennebunk (WWW.COASTALMAINEKAYAK.COM),
Portland Paddle in Portland (PORTLANDPADDLE.NET), SOPOSUP
treadmill any day).
in South Portland/Cape
to a sport, taking a lesson
BEGINNER: Paddleboarding
is always a good way to go.
looks easy enough to figure
Elizabeth (SOPOSUP.COM), L.L. Bean in Freeport (WWW.LLBEAN. COM), and Acadia Stand Up Paddleboarding in Bar Harbor
You'll learn proper form and
out (it's just standing up,
(ACADIASUP.COM), to name a few.
technique, as well as the best
right?), but it doesn't come
ways to stay safe once you're
naturally to everyone.
SUP EXPERIENCED: If you’re
out on your own (all things
Start by learning the best
comfortable standing up on
you don't want to learn the
techniques for getting
a SUP, then it’s time to start
hard way). Plus, that expert
upright - which can be harder
exploring. You can certainly
guidance will help you learn
than it looks - proper paddle
chart your own course
more quickly (bonus!). If
form, and safety measure
on Maine's waterways, or
you've already got some
(including wearing a leash
sign up for a guided tour
experience, there are groups,
and PFD and being aware
to places you might not
tours and events for you, too.
of weather conditions and
think of. Maine Kayak in New
tides). Outfitters around the
Harbor (MAINEKAYAK.COM) leads
If you're brand-spanking-new
22 summer / fall | 2017
Paddleboarding
SOUTH COASTAL PORTLAND
Casco Bay Lines Music Cruise Schedule
sunset tours in Pemaquid
To really work yourself out,
Jenny Woodman
Wavelength
Monday, Jul 3, 2017 | 7–10 pm
Friday, Jul 21, 2017 | | 7:30–10:30 pm
This Maine legend plays of variety of classic hits and music from today.
Plays a variety of classic dance music.
Harbor, Portland Paddle
check out a paddleboard
leads tours to Fort Gorges
yoga class with Koan Wellness
in Casco Bay, and Seaspray
in York (WWW.KOANWELLNESS.COM),
The Don Campbell Band
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
on Lake Androscoggin with
Friday, Jul 28, 2017 | 7–10 pm
(WWW.SEASPRAYKAYAKING.COM)
Windsurfing Maine
Thursday, Jul 13, 2017 | 7–10 pm
Rock, Pop, Metal
offers downwind ocean
(WWW.WINDSURFING-MAINE.COM), or
paddleboard tours that
with an area paddle shop,
depart from Hermit Island
many of which are offering
in Phippsburg and end at
SUP yoga these days. Maine
Sebasco Harbor Resort (where
Sport Outfitters in Rockport
a restaurant, bar, and outdoor
(WWW.MAINESPORT.COM) offers SUP
pool await).
Fit classes to really work
MidLife Krisis
Adult contemporary/country crossover and America rock ensemble
The Hurricanes Friday, Aug 18, 2017 | 8—11 pm
Racer X Friday, Jul 14, 2017 | 7:30–10:30 pm Maine’s # 1 80’s Cover Band
A true party rock band!
Come visit us on the Portland Waterfront! Casco Bay Lines offers a variety of scenic trips. Choose from a harbor cruise, a day at the beach or bring your bike and explore island life. There truly is something for everyone.
Open Year Round Casco Bay Ferry Terminal
Commercial & Franklin Streets • Portland, Maine 207-774-7871 • www.cascobaylines.com activitymaine.com 23
beer, check out the Bikes
offers yoga at Bug Light
& Brews events from
Park every Tuesday 6-7 p.m.
Gear Works Productions
and Sundays 10-11 a.m.,
(WWW.GEARWORKSPRODUCTIONS.COM).
and Willard Beach Yoga leads classes on Fisherman’s Point.
GO AFTER IT: Challenge
In Portland, Ashley Flowers
yourself with one of Maine’s
teaches 6-7 p.m. Wednesday
mountain bike races. You’ll
nights at Payson Park. If you
compete against other area
like to cuddle some baby
riders, push yourself harder,
goats after your workout,
and have an incredible experience, too. Sign up for
check out yoga at Sunflower Farm (WWW.SUNFLOWERFARM.INFO) in
the Bondy Brook Tread Fest in
Cumberland.
Augusta on June 25 your core and get your heart
beginner to intermediate
(WWW.TREADFEST.ORG), Carrabassett
SERIOUS SWEAT: Outdoor boot
racing.
clinics on the Stroudwater
Backcountry Cycle Challenge
camps offer you the chance
Trail. Sunday River in Newry
in Carrabassett Valley
to sweat your brains out on
READY TO RACE: Really want
(WWW.SUNDAYRIVER.COM) runs a
on July 15 (BIKEREG.COM/
the beach, on the grass, or
to give your muscles a run
bike school with 90-minute
CARRABASSETT-BACKCOUNTRY-CYCLE-
up and down the bleacher
for their money? Sign up
clinics that include a bike
CHALLENGE),
stairs at your locals sports
for a paddleboard race. The
rental and helmet. Clinics are
Nordic Trail Festival 6-Hour Races in Preque Isle
Casco Bay Summer Race Series
daily in June and Thursday
July 22 (NORDICTRAILFESTIVAL.
are open to beginners, too,
(WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CASCOBAYSUP)
through Sunday the rest of
COM), Titcomb
and offer heart-pounding
starts in June and runs
the summer. And L.L. Bean in
Challenge in Farmington on
workouts that’ll leave you
Mountain
stadium. These boot camps
weekly through August at
Freeport (WWW.LLBEAN.COM) is now
August 13 (SITES.GOOGLE.COM/SITE/
exhausted and happy. In
various locations in greater
offering Learn to Mountain
TITCOMBMTNCHALLENGE),
Kennebunk, check out Get Out
Portland. The Nonantum
Bike courses that include all
12 Hours of Bradbury Mountain
There Fitness (GETOUTTHEREFITNESS.
Resort’s annual Paddle Battle
equipment and instruction.
in Pownal on September 16
COM)
(CASCOBAYEVENTS.COM/BRADBURYTWELVE).
at Mother’s and Gooch’s
in Kennebunkport, date TBD
and the
for 45-minute workouts
for 2017, (WWW.NONANTUMRESORT.
INTERMEDIATE RIDER: Hit
COM)
the trails on your own —
Outdoor Workouts
Beaches. Saco Biddeford Bootcamp (BIDDEFORDSACOBOOTCAMP.
and beginner paddlers, as
the New England Mountain
BEND & STRETCH: Yoga is
COM)
is another Paddle Battle on
Biking Association is a
splendid for all levels - it’s
beaches of Biddeford Pool
Highland Lake in Bridgton on
great resource for trails
great for strength, balance,
on Monday, Wednesday,
July 1, organized by the Lakes
(WWW.NEMBA.ORG/TRAILS/MAINE) -—
and flexibility. But if you’re
and Friday, and Portland
Environmental Association
or join up with a local
looking for an accessible
Sweat Project (WWW.FACEBOOK.
(WWW.MAINELAKES.ORG). The
mountain biking group for
workout that’ll have you
COM/PORTLANDSWEATPROJECT)
Sheepscot River Race on
some trail togetherness.
inhaling warm summer air
every Wednesday morning
July 4 has recreational
The Single Track Sisters is a
(rather than panting for
for free fitness at various
and racing categories
free women’s group that
breathe), yoga is it. Many
locations around town.
(WWW.SEASPRAYKAYAKING.COM).
rides regularly on Monday
studios offer outdoor classes
and Wednesday evenings
in warmer months. Practice
(Mondays are great for
Yoga (WWW.PRACTICEYOGA.COM) leads
BEGINNER: Learn the basics
beginners, too). NEMBA has
yoga classes on Ogunquit
with free weekly skills clinics
several Maine chapters,
Beach every morning from
in Portland. Sponsored by the
including in the Carrabassett region, Midcoast, Central
7:30-8:30 a.m. The Viewpoint Hotel in York (WWW.FACEBOOK.
on July 29, the Ragged
Bicycle Coalition of Maine (WWW.BIKEMAINE.ORG), the
Maine, Portland, and
COM/NUBBLELIGHTYOGA)
raggedmountainscuttle.
Wednesday evening clinics
Penobscot area. The Green Machine Bike Shop in Norway
outdoor yoga with views
com) at Camden Snow Bowl
are perfect for beginners.
of Nubble Light every
on September 24, and Beach
They’ll alternate each week
leads group rides, too.
Wednesday from 8-9 a.m. In
Raid (WWW.RAIDEVENTS.COM) in Old
between novice clinics
For group rides (all levels
South Portland, Kelly Rich Yoga
Orchard Beach in September
on the Eastern Prom and
welcome) that end with
(WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KELLYRICHYOGA)
(exact date TBA).
is great for experienced
Mountain Biking
24 summer / fall | 2017
is hosting
offers workouts on the
meets
REALLY KILL IT: Sign up for the Tough Mountain Challenge (www.toughmountain. com) at Sunday River Mountain Scuttle (www.
“Running groups are supremely social (which often translates to making new friends), and running with other people supplies a level of motivation that’s hard to summon on our own.”
Run For It FIND RUNNING CAMARADERIE ON THE TRAILS AND THE ROAD WITH THESE FIVE RUNNING GROUPS Text: SHANNON BRYAN
Maine Track Club Maine Track Club has gathered local runners together since 1979. Open to all level, MTC has groups in several towns, including South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Gorham, Scarborough, Sabattus, and Yarmouth. They also organize several races a year, and members have access to training clinics and social events. Membership is $25 a year.
W
arm weather brings all the runners out, from the mighty fast marathoners
to the easy-going jog-walkers. And while solitary runs on local trails suit plenty of folks just fine, running with
MAINETRACKCLUB.COM
Trail Runners of Midcoast Maine Trail Runners of Midcoast Maine is a free, year-round trail running group that meets a couple times a week in the Camden area (in warmer months, they
a group has perks, too. Running groups
usually run the trails at Camden Snow
are supremely social (which often
Bowl). Monday Night Dirt is a no-drop
TOP LESLIE DILLON
translates to making new friends), and
ABOVE EMILY HIGGINS MCDEVITT
running with other people supplies a level of motivation that's hard to
group run, which means beginners won't feel left in the dust, and there are also runs on Wednesday and weekends. WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/RAILRUNNERSOFMIDCOASTMAINE
summon on our own. Many of Maine's running groups are free to join, or have a nominal annual membership fee, and most of them run year-round, too (sometimes in snowshoes).
activitymaine.com 25
SOUTH COASTAL Old Port Pub Run
Trail Monster Running
Old Port Pub Run is perfect for
Trail Monster Running is for
Portland-area runners who are
serious trail runners who
motivated by post-run beers.
aren’t shy of rain, mud, and
The group meets at 6:15 p.m.
snow. Membership is “paid in
every Thursday, year-round, at
the form sweat and blood on
Liquid Riot Bottling Company
the trails,” which means you
in Portland. Runs range from 3
become an official member
to 5 miles, and socializing back
by showing up to run and
at the bar follows. The group
volunteer. How fast you are
is free, but bring money to buy
doesn’t matter - the love of
your own beer.
trail running does.
WWW.OLDPORTPUBRUN.COM
TRAILMONSTERRUNNING.COM
Fleet Feet Maine Running
Central Maine Striders
Fleet Feet Maine Running offers
Central Maine Striders in
run groups its locations in
Waterville, established in 1975,
Brunswick and Portland. The
connects runners of all levels,
$75 fee includes three days of
from recreational runners to
running (Tuesday, Thursday,
competitive racers. The $15
and Saturday), coaches, a year-
yearly membership fee is good
long training program, and
for the whole household and
informational clinics.
includes discounts for club
FREEPORT IS A PICTURESQUE HISTORIC TOWN LOCATED ON
WWW.FLEETFEETMAINERUNNING.COM
races and access to group runs
THE SHORES OF CASCO BAY 20 minutes north of Portland. It is
and training programs.
renowned for being the original home of the world famous L.L.
WWW.CENTRALMAINESTRIDERS.COM
Bean store. Over the years other retailers were drawn to the
Freeport, Maine town, now know for its outlet shopping. There are also dozens of locally owned and operated stores, shops, boutiques, and of course many wonderful restaurants. But Freeport offers much more than shopping! Check out
HARRASEEKET LUNCH & LOBSTER CO.
(207) 865-4888 Home made desserts too!
Just 3 miles from L.L. Bean on the wharf at the end of Main Street on beautiful South Freeport Harbor Come and enjoy fresh seafood for lunch or dinner Experience the working waterfront from inside the dining room or from our picnic tables under the awning!
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park for hikes along the shore on it’s many ocean trails, and excellent bird watching. And you may find it hard to believe, but among the rolling hills and rambling brooks at the end of Desert Road, there is a desert. In 1797, the Tuttle family moved to the 300-acre farm that once covered the Desert of Maine where they successfully raised crops of potatoes and hay for several years. Failure to rotate crops combined with massive land-clearing and overgrazing resulted in severe soil erosion that exposed this hidden desert. If you are a history buff, you can visit Jameson Tavern, built in 1779, and several of the town’s original schools, homes and churches. Check out the demonstrations, exhibits, and walking tours offered by the Freeport Historical Society. the society also hosts several events, including a vintage baseball game, and a barn and quilt tour.
Summer Hours: Lunch 11am to 8:45pm • Lobster Pound 7am to 8:45pm. Labor Day to end of season: Lunch 11am to 7:45pm Lobster Pound 8am to 7:45pm • Live lobsters packed to travel! 865-3535
The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery School offers an affordable way to combine instruction with adventure year-round.And Freeport hosts events year-round that offer something for everyone from foodies to outdoor adveture seekers to art and music fans.
26 summer / fall | 2017
western
LAKES T
his region of western Maine, filled with sparkling lakes and ponds, cascading rivers and streams, waterfalls and covered bridges, is the ideal setting for outdoor activities.
This is the place to fish, kayak,
Mahoosuc Range, providing a single
swim, hunt and mountain bike.
or multi-day backpacking trek.
Experience world-class bass, trout,
ABOVE: PHOTO BY MICHELLE LIBBY
Tree-lined main streets, friendly
and salmon fishing. Glide along a
towns, country fairs and festivals,
lake in your canoe or kayak. Venture
one-of-a-kind museums, antique
into the woods for a hike, or climb
shops, boutiques, unique eateries—
a mountain. Bike the rural byways.
it’s all here in the Lakes and
Try a zip-line adventure. Hit a few
Mountains Region of western Maine.
golf balls. Ride your ATV on miles
Don’t miss the Fryeburg Fair, Maine’s
and miles of maintained trails. The
Blue Ribbon Classic.
Appalachian Trail passes through the
activitymaine.com 27
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
28 summer / fall | 2017
WINDHAM
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
our-season lakeside accommodations F (extended stay in winter) ooms equipped with kitchenettes, R screened-in porches harming lakefront cottages with full kitchen C and bathroom omplimentary Wi-Fi, canoes and kayaks, C continental breakfast
GPS/PHYSICAL LOCATION
661 White’s Bridge Road, Standish ME 04084
ishing, fitness room, swim area, docking F facilities 20–30 minutes from the airport and Portland olf, restaurants, shopping, beaches and G entertainment nearby Pet-friendly, family friendly, smoke-free
Sebago Lake Lodge & Cottages PO Box 480 • Windham ME 04062 207-892-2698 • www.sebagolakelodge.com
STAY ON TARGET Windham Indoor Shooting Range & Retail Store is located at 999 Roosevelt Trail (Rt. 302) in Windham. Their staff will ensure a safe, fun, educational experience in an indoor shooting range. The facility is equipped with 12 indoor shooting lanes with a shooting distance of 25 yards. They are a public range and offer membership or walk-in rates. Their primary goals are SAFETY & Responsibility when using firearms. The 2500 sq. /ft. retail store offers handgun, shotgun and rifle rentals; a try before you buy program and private lessons on request. Rental guns from .22 calibers to .308, including full auto 5.56 are available. They provide an Instructor/Range Safety Officer on the range to ensure your safety and will provide coaching as needed. If you’re looking for a unique experience with your family, the staff at Windham Indoor Shooting Range is excited to work with you. The minimum age requirement is 8 years old and their programs are ideal for families looking to explore shooting sports and learn in a safe, controlled environment. For more information visit www. windhamindoorshootingrange.com or Windham Indoor Shooting Range on Facebook.
CHALLENGE YOURSELF AT MAINE’S STATE OF THE ART SHOOTING FACILITY! Southern Maine’s finest, 12 Lane Sport Shooting Facility is equipped with Action Target Range Equipment, a Total Containment Bullet Trap, Hepa Air Filtration, and a Mancom Target Retrieval System. Our Instructors are all NRA Trained and eager to help you hone your firearms skills. And, our fully stocked Retail Store and experienced Sales Associates are ready to supply all your shooting needs. Come on in to put some in the Bullseye!
“Training Begins at the Door”
Safe Gun Handling Begins Early!
We Offer: • Range Memberships or by the Hour Range Rates • Fireams Rentals • Try Before You Buy Program • NRA Trained Instructors & a Wide Selection of Firearms Training Courses
• Women’s Shooting Club • Thursday Night Shooting League • Gunsmithing Services • Firearm Appraisals
www.WindhamIndoorShootingRange.com 999 ROOSEVELT TRAIL • WINDHAM, ME 04062 • 207-892-0274
activitymaine.com 29
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS WINDHAM
WINDHAM SUMMERFEST June 24, 2017 Windham High School grounds. Parade, food, business expo, kids’ activities, crafters, fireworks and a lot more! 207-892-1905.
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE LIBBY
CONWAY, NH
a premiere tech adventure
DENMARK
Adventure & Exploration of the Sebago Lakes Region
SEPTEMBER 16, 2017 The Amazing Chase is a team tech adventure race involving a series of challenging team building activities. This adventure involves SMART technology, strategy, finding landmarks, solving clues, trivia, performing tasks, completing physical challenges, and taking photos/videos. In the first event of its kind in Maine, teams will utilize high-tech Apple iPads and experience video, photo, and audio clues as well as multi-media trivia. The entire event will be produced into a feature video for all teams to enjoy!
Nurture through Nature An Environmentally-Friendly Retreat in Denmark, Maine
YOUR GOAL Earn the most points AND return to the finish line before your competition!
Eco~Cabin & Yurt Rentals Individual & Group Retreats Wood~fired Sauna Hike~Snow Shoe~Canoe Excursions Rent the Retreat Space: Lead Your Own Workshop Or Retreat Holistic Life Coaching Yoga and The Healing Arts Classes
rie
F
30 summer / fall | 2017
Maine's First Green-Certified Retreat Center
th~
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2017
Ear
www.ntnretreats.com
9
77 Warren Road Denmark, Maine 04022
HROUGH ET N UR
E UR AT
1-855-207-RETREAT (7387)
199
• • • • • • • •
ndl
n
ce
To Register go to: sebagolakeschamber.com/ac/
relax, renew, recharge in a beautiful, natural setting
NUR T
YOUR TEAM The Amazing Chase will be comprised of (4) person teams limited to (1) automobile. If you don’t register a team – you will be placed on a team by event organizers. Players age 10 & up and each team must have a player at least 25 years old with valid drivers licence.
i y R etre ats S
Summer Camping Gear
WISH LIST Text: KAY STEPHENS
FOR THE GEARHEAD
CONWAY, NH
Outdoor Gear Lab gives the Anker15W Foldable Dual Port Solar Panel the best marks for 2017for charging your phone and music in the wilderness. It’s lightweight, durable and competitively priced at $49.99 WWW.OUTDOORGEARLAB.COM/TOPICS/CAMPING-AND-HIKING/BEST-SOLAR-CHARGEr
PHOTO BY ROBBIE MARTIN
FOR THE GLAMPER Hydro Hammock is one of the most buzzed about outdoor accessories in the last two years. This hot tub hammock holds up to 750 pounds of body weight and water, with a water heater that offers serious relaxation. It ain’t cheap at $1892 for both hammock and water heater, but it looks like pure bliss. HYDROHAMMOCK.COM
RV SALES • SERVICE • ACCESSORIES • MOBILE RV SERVICE
We Carry all the Top Manufacturers!
& More!
m an .
Rd
32 summer / fall | 2017
RV Sales on-site
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Call Toll-Free 888-415-5805 Online CampingWorldOfConway.com
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302 Ea
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North Conway
16 White Mountain Hwy.
1571 East Main Street, Route 302 03813
16
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CENTER CO 1571 E. Main 855.530.1773 RV Sales 88
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
great content We feature 100% locally sourced content. So email subscribe@activitymaine.com with your ideas!
FOR THE PRIMITIVE CAMPER The Sawyer Mini is an award-winning 2 ounce water purifier which
LEWISTON/AUBRUN
filters up to 100,000 gallons of water coming in at an affordable $19.99
SAWYER.COM/PRODUCTS/SAWYER-MINI-FILTER/
FOR THE FIRE RING FOODIE The Maine Meal, are gourmet frozen prepared meals made by Skowhegan couple Mark and Kelly LaCasse ranging from lobster, sea scallops,beef and chicken, along with side dishes of vegetables, soups, pasta, potatoes and grain dishes. $30-35 feeds two people. WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/THEMAINEMEAL/
Visit LA LAMetroChamber.com 207-783-2249 415 Lisbon Street, Lewiston
Weekend Warriors Let us help you reach your goals.
Balance . Education · Core Strengthening · Prevention · Rehabilitation Resistance Training . Speed & Agility Drills
STRENGTH & PERFORMANCE CLINIC 15 Gracelawn Road . Auburn, ME
207-333-4710 EXPERT MINDS. CARING HANDS.
www.stmarysortho.com
ST. MARY’S REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER WAS NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED AS A TOP GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2016
activitymaine.com 33
ROUTE 26
The road to many Maine adventures
L
OCALS AND VISITORS FROM EVERY CORNER OF THE WORLD, ARE ENCOURAGED TO GO AND EXPERIENCE THESE RARE, UNIQUE PLACES all
less than an hour from each other on the picturesque Route 26 in Western Maine. The road meanders through gorgeous countryside and boasts culturally, historically, and ecologically significant attractions. Just thirty minutes north of Portland, a family can spend a day or several days visiting these destinations for very little money – a true value! The Gems include: The Maine Wildlife Park, New Gloucester Shaker Village, Poland Spring Resort &Golf Course, Maine State Building Museum, Poland Spring Bottling Museum, McLaughlin Garden & Homestead & the Oxford Casino & Hotel.
BELOW: A black bear at Maine Wildlife
Park
Fenn Park has it all! Located
bag. The Golf Learning Center
WIFI & cable, handicap
across from the 18 hole
has all facets of improving
services available and ask
Poland Spring Resort you
your game covered from
about group event services.
will find Miniature Golf, a
video analysis to on course
Smedberg’s roadside stand
Disc Golf Park even private
instruction!
was originally built in 1967
and group golf lessons with
Poland Mining Camps is located
and is owned and operated
a delux driving range. Plus
in Poland, Maine and our
by Roger and Gayle Smedberg
you can reward yourself
primary business is to cater
and Roger Smedberg Jr. From
at the ice cream shop that
to the needs of the pegmatite
Made-in-Maine products
serves Gifford’s Ice Cream
mineral collector, enthusiast
like maple syrup, honey,
specializing in cones, sundaes
or geologist, whether as
fruit salsa, soaps, and
and more!
individuals or as a Group. Our
ornaments, to their own One
The driving range at Poland
customers have exclusive
Cow Homemade Ice Cream
Spring Resort stretches over
access to famous pegmatite
that’s “udderly delicious”,
330 yards in length with
quarries and are allowed to
Smedberg’s Crystal Spring Farm
spectacular views of Mount
collect mineral specimens,
is an experience unlike any
Washington. There is a
study the geology and enjoy
other. Stop by and check out
practice bunker and several
the opportunity unavailable
their homemade baked goods
different target greens for
to the general public.
including pies, bread, and
you to work on different distances and clubs in your
Egg-Ceptional Restaurant serves breakfast and lunch from
PHOTO MICHAEL LEONARD
Gayle’s delicious homemade baked beans and chicken
6:00am until 2:00pm everyday.
activitymaine.com 35
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
Fenn Park at Poland Spring Resort
DRIVING RANGE DISC GOLF MINI GOLF
Gifford’s Ice Cream Eli’s Root Beer Floats & More! Bring your family and friends! Open until dusk All Summer! 547 Maine Street (Route 26) Poland Spring www.polandspringresort.com
COLLECT MINERALS IN MAINE We have access to private and closed locations like: Mount Mica, Mount Apatite, Emmons and more! Poland Mining Camps Dudy & Mary Groves P.O. Box 26 • 34 Groves Lane Poland, Maine 04274
visit Oma’s Attic
A UNIQUE AND COMPLETE VACATION OPPORTUNITY
(207) 998-2350
visit our website: www.polandminingcamps.com
Experience the Gems of 26 Road Trip from Gray to Bethel
Mid-May to Mid-October Maine Wildlife Park Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
Poland Spring Resort Maine State Building Museum McLaughlin Garden & Homestead
mainebrewguide.com
www.gemsof26.com
p. 40
visit an island brewery
Maine Brew Guide
still growing
Regional TASTING ROoM
GUIDE
LONE PINE & BREWERIES ACROSs MAINE TRENDING UPWARD
plus
– Maine’s Craft Distillery Movement & Cocktail Recipes Page 8 – Craft Beer Tourism Page 27
HOURS & LOCATIONS
&
5 SUMmERY
beer reviews Page 47
– Spotlight Brewer: Mia Strong Page 44
Available at many local breweries.
36 summer / fall | 2017
special ISSUE
Poland Spring Bottling Museum
– Maine Tasting Room Guide – Pro Brewing Tips – Locally Sourced Ingredients – Fall Brews with a Twist – and more...
ABOVE: Resting lynx at Maine Wildlife Park PHOTO MICHAEL LEONARD
pies. Smedberg’s fully-
and Inside Paws Treats for
stocked greenhouses feature
furry customers. You have
beautiful annuals, hardy
the option of inside service
perennials, fertilizer, soils, as
with seating, a walk up
well as seedlings and plants.
window or drive thru service
Smedberg’s all-natural,
for your convenience.
home-grown beef, pork,
Dennis and Julie Creaser
farm, fed from the field with
have turned their love of
no added hormones. Also
gemstones and jewelry
available: chicken, turkey,
into a thriving small
seafood and live lobster. You
business which specializes
won’t want to miss a stop at
in Maine Gemstones
Smedberg’s Crystal Spring
(Maine Tourmaline, Maine
Farm.
Amethyst), fine jewelry and
Oxford Casino, located in the
PHOTO: PHOTO MICHAEL LEONARD
Creaser Jewelers owners
and lamb are raised on the
custom design. Dennis has
heart of southern Maine,
dedicated over 20 years to
just minutes from Exit 63
gemcutting and jewelry
off the Maine Turnpike is
design – and the pursuit of
your destination for wicked
Maine gemstones. He facets
good fun. The casino offers
and carves gems with one
a unique gaming and
goal in mind: create the
entertainment experience
brightest, cleanest, most
unlike any other. From table
beautiful jewel possible.
games to slot machines,
He designs jewelry to
their non-stop gaming action
perfectly enhance, perfectly
delivers a thrill a minute to
compliment a beautiful
fortune seekers, and their
gemstone. Julie has over 12
on-site restaurant and full
years experience in business
bar provide places to refuel.
management and customer
The Inside Scoop offers their
service and a lifetime of
own delicious homemade ice
appreciation for fine jewelry.
outdoor writers & photographers wanted
cream that is made onsite!
This combined with her
They have soft serve ice
knowledge of styles and
cream featuring flavor-bursts,
trends, both current and
fresh waffle cones, yummy
traditional, guarantee their
Email subscribe@activitymaine.com with your ideas or content!
sweet treats. They also offer
customers’ satisfaction.
non-dairy treats, sugar-free ice cream, ice cream cakes
activitymaine.com 37
• Expert in-house repair & jewelry restoration • Fine Jewelry
• Maine Tourmaline
• Custom Design
• Maine Amethyst
• Gem Cutting
• Mineral Museum
145 Main Street, South Paris, Maine • 800.686.7633 • www.creaserjewelers.com •
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GREEN MACHINE BIKE SHOP
Bikes &
BREWS The Green Machine Bike Shop, established in 2012, is excited to be rolling into it’s 2nd season in their new home, the Historic L.M. Longley Building! They have lots of great things going on in Norway/Oxford County region around bicycles & trail building initiatives! If you don’t want to ride alone, the Green Machine Bike Shop offers weekly bike rides: ■■ Wednesdays Road Bike Ride leaves the bike shop at 5:15p.m. ■■ Friday’s Mountain Bike ride leaves the bike shop at 5:15 p.m.
as well. To kick off the weekend, after the mountain bike ride, you will find riders sipping on brews at one of the local establishments! Green Machine Bike Shop has winter Fat Bike rentals available at Lost Valley Ski Area in Auburn. For more information about our rides, rentals, etc you can contact us at 207-739-2324.
activitymaine.com 39
Quiet Paddling in Western Maine Text & Photos: JEN DERASPE
M
Y ALL-TIME FAVORITE MODE OF TRANSPORTATION IS BY
The Saco River begins in Crawford
CANOE. This ancient way of travel leaves me feeling peaceful
Notch, NH, as Saco Lake, descending
and present in no time as I leave the work-a-day details
out of the White Mts, traversing through
behind with a few short paddle strokes. Experiencing the floating support, being suspended on water, another body, holding me up and carrying me along is powerful and healing. The sound of the wooden paddle slicing through the water’s surface, plunging down silently, propulsing me along the slow passing scenery, the perspective gained from being on top of the water, a place no one has walked or driven before—it’s simply magical.
24 towns, carving its way through south western Maine all the way to the Atlantic between the towns of Biddeford and Saco. Our cities and towns used to turn their backs to the rivers, using them a receptacles for industrial waste, including paper, tanning and textiles. Thankfully, waterfronts are now being cleaned up, honored and featured, as the beautiful resource that it is.
Abenaki Indians, “The People of the
from south to north to help ensure
Dawn”, relied a great deal on waterways
greater success with hunting and
The Saco has been a hot bed for
of this area for easy and swift transport.
gathering. Many tribes spent their
conservation drawing in the Nature
Maine has 7 major rivers that tribes
summers on the coast taking in the
Conservancy and the Saco River
used as super highways to explore,
ocean’s bounty. By early fall, they would
Corridor Commission to protect is
gather resources, trade and enjoy
paddle and pole back upstream to their
shores and waters. Because of its
the bounty provided my Maine’s epic
winter home, rich with game, shelter
seasonal flooding and intense water
natural resources. The rivers served
and resources.
level fluctuations after sudden storms,
as trade routes and also helped the Abenaki to make seasonal migrations
40 summer / fall | 2017
I get to live near the serpentine shores of the Saco River, one of these 7 gems.
it is home to rare plants and animals that sustain and thrive in these varying
conditions. The receding glacier left
been directly escorted by river otter,
Magic happens when one just
the river with a thick sandy bed that
swacked into attention by beaver as
shows up and joins the circle of
acts as a water filtration system,
they slap their tails adamantly letting
what is already going on, tuning
providing some of the cleanest
me know who’s turf I am in. I have
into the natural rhythm and natural
water on the planet. Over 250,000
paused to watch dozens of painted
world. Canoeing provides a life-long
people and multiple bulk water
turtles sun bath on a river-worn log.
opportunity to access the wilderness
extraction corporations tap into the
Around bend and curve, I have followed
we still get to experience and witness.
aquifer surrounding the Saco’s sandy
the flight and distinct King Fisher’s
Paddling totally shifts my mental state.
surroundings.
song. Being mesmerized by the stillness
There is still deep quiet in western
and majesty of the great blue heron,
Maine, off the hub-bub of major
to drift into some amazing wildlife
bald eagle and osprey is humbling and
highways, out of town just enough to
along the Saco and its connecting
inspiring.
smell the trees, see the sky and hear
The quiet paddler has an opportunity
streams, bogs, ponds and lakes. I have
the birdsong strong. Jen Deraspe, founder of Nurture Through Nature Retreat Center, Maine’s first GreenCertified lodging retreat, lives off the grid on the slopes of Pleasant Mt in Denmark. Her passion is leading earth-friendly retreats and holistic life coaching. FMI: www. ntnretreats.com
activitymaine.com 41
ABOVE AND RIGHT: CAROLSAVAGEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
BETHEL MAINE
B
ETHEL IS A YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR
This is a lovely time of
PARADISE. Summer brings excellent hiking,
year to get outside and
biking, paddling, camping, and fishing, or
just relaxing near a local swimming hole or at a
biking, wildlife watching, or sightseeing. Come enjoy
spa. A wide variety of lodging and shopping, as
all that Bethel’s mountain
well as dining options to suit every taste, await
village has to offer: wonderful
you. The Bethel area is host to many wonderful
community events,
events in the summer and fall months. Experience the historic village and beautiful mountain
performances, shopping, golf, mountain biking, and lots more at Sunday River Resort.
landscapes. From canoeing and fly fishing one of
Campgrounds are open and
the many local rivers, streams or ponds to miles of
local accommodations await;
cycling, hiking and mountain bike trails, Bethel is a true four-season recreational destination.
42 summer / fall | 2017
do some hiking, paddling,
visit this summer and explore what Bethel has to offer during each unique season.
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
activitymaine.com 43
WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
events | Bethel Area
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information. JULY 1 28th Annual Bethel Art Fair Enjoy the work of local artists and artisans, musical entertainment, and more. On the Bethel Town Common. Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce, 207-824-2282, www.bethelartfair.com. JULY 4 The Fourth of July Community Picnic & Concert Museums of the Bethel Historical Society – Celebrate our nation’s independence with an outdoor concert by the fabulous Portland Brass Quintet. Bring your lunch, and after the presentation of colors and the National Anthem, enjoy a two-hour concert. Starting at 11:30am, 14 Broad Street, Bethel. 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910 bethelhistorical.org JULY 7-8 River Rock Festival Sunday River Resort – The River Rock Music Festival, presented by Lighthouse Events, hits the Sunday River stage this July as a two-day Christian music celebration with some of the top artists in Christian music. www.riverrockfestival.com JULY - AUGUST Source to the Sea Androscoggin River Watershed Council, whose mission is to continuously improve environmental quality, encourage stewardship and promote healthy and
prosperous communities in the Androscoggin Watershed, hosts a journey of nearly 170 miles, from Umbagog to the Atlantic Ocean in Merrymeeting Bay. (207) 754-8158 androscogginwatershed.org JULY 8-9 Western Maine Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show Telstar Regional High School - Gems, minerals, crystals, books, magazines, fossils, jewelry, door prizes, museum-quality displays, gem raffle, and much more. Entrance fee $3, and under 12 is FREE. 9am-4pm. Telstar High School, 284 Walkers Mills Rd. (Rt. 26), Bethel. FMI 207-665-2759 mincoll@megalink.net JULY 15 Molly Ockett Day & Molly Ockett Day Classic Road Races Bethel’s biggest and most beloved event for over 50 years. Artists and crafters on the town common, parade, live music, kids’ entertainment, frog jumping contest, food, fireworks, more. Road races: 5-mile run, 2-mile walk, 1-mile kids’ run, diaper dash too! Tshirts & prizes. Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce. 207-824-2282, www.mollyockettday.com. July 15 Tubing & Treasure Scavenger Hunt – 12 noon - float in tubes
from Bethel Outdoor Adventure to Davis Park, then pick up a treasure map and find treasure on the return trip! Tubes and PFDs provided by BOA. 207-824-4224, www.BethelOutdoorAdventure.com JULY 21-22 New England Forest Rally Sunday River & surrounding area - regional and national rally racing pros take on the back roads of western Maine and northern New Hampshire. www.newenglandforestrally.com JULY 29 Tough Mountain Challenge Sunday River Resort - The ultimate event for the thrill-seeking athlete, and undoubtedly the hardest race at Sunday River, competitors face many obstacles and some of the most demanding and unique terrain on a 5k course. 800-543-2754, www. sundayriver.com. AUG. 5 10th Annual Maine State Kids’ Triathlon A non-competitive 100 yard, 3 mile bike ride, 1 mile run. Ages 8-14. Everyone is a winner! Start and finish at Angevine Park, 456 North Road. Bethel Outing Club. bethelouting.org AUG. 6 26th Annual Maine State Triathlon A sprint triathlon with a 750-meter swim at Songo Pond, 24K bike on scenic country roads, and a 5.8 K cross-country run, starting at the Bethel Inn Lake House. Teams or individuals. Bethel Area Chamber of
Commerce, 207-824-2282, www.mainestatetriathlon.com. AUG. 17-19 40th Annual Trappers’ Weekend 760 East Bethel Road – Trapping and hunting demonstrations, contests, music, auction, and Maine Humorist Bob Noonan. 207-875-5765. SEPT. 7 Annual Meeting and Program Museums of the Bethel Historical Society - 6:30 pm pot-luck supper will precede the Society’s Annual Meeting at 7:30 pm. Officers and trustees will be elected. Program to follow. 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910 bethelhistorical.org. SEPT. 16 20th Annual Harvestfest & Chowdah Cookoff Bethel town common - An old-fashioned fun fall festival with artists, crafters, chowder cook-off of local restaurants, Maine baked potatoes, apple pie contest, live music, wagon rides, and kids’ activities. Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce 207-824-2282, www.bethelmaine.com, www.bethelharvestfest.com. SEPT. 28, 29, 30 28th Annual Maine Mountains Jeep Jamboree - Don’t miss this sell-out event! Challenging trails, beautiful New England fall setting and awesome Trail Guides make this event so popular. On Saturday at 9am, come see over 180 Jeeps parade through the town of Bethel. www.jeepjamboreeusa.com
Bethel Outdoor Adventures & Campgroup is a family friendly campground and outdoor adventure business on the banks of the Androscoggin River, close to the center of Bethel. They provide a beautiful river front campground for RVs and tenters, as well as canoe, kayak, paddle board and drift boat rentals, guided fishing and guided trips. Their burgeoning tube business is perfect for those hot, lazy mid summer days, or try out their single span Burma Bridge to Hastings Island. Your visit with Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground is sure to be adventurous and is a natural compliment to the many outdoor activities available locally. On site is the GEM AND MINERAL Sluice providing under cover fun and education for the entire family. They sell buckets of material gathered from local mines, and you ‘sluice’ it carefully looking for local gems and minerals - beryl, amethyst, tourmaline, quartz, mica, feldspar, apatite, lepidolite - and more. Everybody gets goodies that can be identified using their handy identification board. Buckets cost $25.00, $50.00, or $100.00. Try out the antique cast - iron hand pump, just in the days of old. story WWW.ROCKSME.BIZ The sluice is open late May through mid October. 207-824-4224.
44 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO COUTESY OF HERMIT ISLAND CAMPGROUND
making
CAMP
Text: LAFE LOW
F
ew things truly say “summer” like the crackling of a campfire
as orange light dances around the campsite. The heady scent
of the deep forest and the campfire smoke soothes your senses.
Thankfully, you don’t have to heave off too far into the wilderness to find a piece of the forest you’ll feel you can truly call your own. These campgrounds will bring you that deep wilderness feel without having to mount a multi-day expedition just to get there.
THE HIGHLANDS CHIMNEY POND IN BAXTER STATE PARK Of all the campgrounds and campsites throughout Baxter State Park, you’d be hard pressed to find one that feels more magical. You are right in the cradle of Katahdin, and on the shores of Chimney
MIDCOAST HERMIT ISLAND
Pond. It truly doesn’t get much better you’ll still feel like you have a piece of
than this. Gaze around the scenery and
the island to yourself. The preferred
may feel is if you’ve been transported to
areas are Osprey Point and Sunset
Middle Earth. The gray granite spires of
Hermit Island, while indeed an island
Lagoon, Joe’s Head and Sand Dune
Katahdin loom ominously around you—
unto itself, is one you can reach by
Beach. Make a reservation well in
at once inviting and daring you to climb.
car over short narrow causeway. The
advance and hope for decent weather.
private campground at Hermit Island
When you’re at Hermit Island for a few
Pack light, as you will have to hike in—it’s 3.3 miles from the Roaring Brook
has something for everyone, whether
days, treat yourself with a side trip to
Campground. There are nine two-person
you want to be nestled deep in thick
Popham Beach. This spectacularly scenic
lean-tos and a 10 person bunkhouse,
evergreen forest on plunked on a
smooth sand beach is shaped like two
so you won’t need your tent. This is
windswept ridge or right on the smooth
huge crescents, with a large jetty in the
one of two backcountry campgrounds
sandy beach. It’s a huge campground
middle that’s great for climbing on and
within Baxter State Park and is quite
with 275 individual sites, but it doesn’t
just hanging out to be with the ocean for
popular. Reserve well in advance, and be
feel huge. When you set up your tent,
a few hours.
respectful of the rules. The rangers take
activitymaine.com 45
PHOTOS: Left, Carolsavagephotography.com; Bottom left Lily Bay on Moosehead Lake by Leah LaRoche; Below, Shannon Bryan
very seriously Percival Baxter’s doctrine
Lake. It will truly take your breath away,
of the park being a “wilderness preserve
even on the hottest summer day.
first, recreation resource second.”
MOOSEHEAD LILY BAY STATE PARK Lily Bay State Park is another wild and remote park and that provides the
WESTERN LAKES RANGELEY LAKE STATE PARK In the right moments, the stillness, the
DOWNEAST AND ACADIA COBSCOOK BAY STATE PARK Cobscook Bay State Park has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to oceanfront campsites. Try to get a site on the Cobscook Point peninsula with
feeling of island camping on the shores
darkness and the quiet at Rangeley State
sites 56, 57, 59, and 62. These spectacular
of Moosehead Lake without having to
Park are absolute. The still may only be
sites are truly set off on their own. This
load up a canoe or kayak. There are
punctuated by loons checking in from
is another spot where you can get that
plenty of remote feeling lakeside sites,
alternate ends of the lake before they
remote island camping feel, even though
especially on the Dunn Point side of the
turn in for the night. Rangeley Lake State
if you run out of Cheez-Its, your vehicle
park. Most sites must be reserved, but
Park has 50 sites spread throughout the
is parked only 30 yards away.
several are first come, first served. Do
dense forest. Aim for one near the shore
yourself a favor and reserve a waterfront
of the lake, especially sites 11, 13, 15, 17,
Cobscook Bay State Park is clamming
site. These primo sites fill up fast in the
19, 21 and 23. If those are already full,
out on the mud flats. You can venture
summer. If the Dunn Point side is full,
fear not. You’ll never be that far from the
out there at extreme low tide and pick
don’t despair. Go for the peninsula of
lake either way. Try for one of the sites
yourself a peck (about two gallons or
sites 33 through 38 on the Rowell Cove
set along the outside of the campground
15 pounds) of clams. Be mindful of the
side. This little group of sites is among
loop road, as those typically have a bit
incoming tide though. When the tide
the best at Lily Bay.
more forest separating the individual
turns and comes in, it comes in quite
sites. At night, when the campfire is
rapidly and the tidal range averages 20
spectacular, but since you’re right on
crackling, all you’ll see is your immediate
to 24 feet. Getting trapped on the mud
the shores of Moosehead Lake, your
circle bathed in the orange light of the
flats can be inconvenient; it can even
campsite might as well be there too. And
campfire. The surrounding forest will be
be dangerous. Cobscook is actually the
if you’re truly daring, part Inuit, or have
shrouded in impenetrable darkness and
Passamaquoddy term for “boiling tides.”
a high pain tolerance, you can even take
you’ll feel like you have the forest and
Back at your campsite, you won’t have
a dip in the cool waters of Moosehead
the night to yourself.
any fresher clams than those you just
The sites deeper in the woods are also
One cool thing about camping
dug up and grilled over your fire.
46 summer / fall | 2017
PHOTO BY MATT TINKER
RANGELEY LAKES summer paradise M
Text: BOBBIE RANDOLPH
AINE’S RANGELEY LAKES REGION INCLUDES MORE THAN THE 10-SQUARE-
winning moose caller Matt
MILE LAKE itself, extending to five other large lakes and hundreds of smaller
Tinker through Green Farm
lakes and ponds. Add rivers and streams, two mountains – Saddleback and The
Guide Service. Green Farm can also plan
Horn -- just east of the lake, and mile after mile of forests. What do you get? A paradise
and guide day and overnight
for those who love the great outdoors and all the activities it invites. Fishing, swimming,
hiking trips and guided
kayaking, canoeing, hiking, climbing, camping, cycling, wildlife watching or just lazing
fishing for pickerel, perch,
beside the lake – whatever your summer bliss, you’ll find it here.
trout or salmon. Their expert fishing guides can help you improve your dry fly casting,
Hikers and climbers have
from AJ’s to the extensive
it’s challenging, and birders
their choice of woodland
network of trails at the
love it for the variety of
trails or several mountains.
Rangeley Lakes Trail Center
species that nest alongside
it’s hard not to spend some
Bald Mountain Hiking Trail,
(rangeleylakestrailscenter.
the course.
time enjoying water sports.
between Rangeley and
com).
Mooselookmeguntic lakes,
Moose Loop Cafe is located on
All the lakes and ponds
too. With lakes on every side,
Lakeside Park, on Main Street
surrounded by forest makes
in Rangeley, has a free sandy
climbs to an altitude of 2, 443
Main Street, at the trailhead
a prime wildlife habitat,
beach with lifeguards, picnic
feet for 360-degree views over
to Franklin County’s Moose
and moose-watching and
tables and changing rooms,
both lakes.
Loop, a forest trail with
photography is one of
while Rangeley Lake State Park,
mountain climbs and scenic
the region’s most popular
on the lake’s south shore, has
views.
activities. If roadside
a beach with lifeguards; it
“stakeouts” between Rangeley
charges a small day-use fee.
AJ Cycles (207-864-2850) on Maine Street in downtown Rangeley rents and sells
Golfers will appreciate the
Fat Bikes. They are a full-
scenic Mingo Springs Golf Course,
and Eustis — a favorite
service bike shop, if your
a favorite of both beginners
moose-spotting spot — aren’t
ponds and enjoy the wildlife
own needs a tune-up
and scratch players. Although
enough, take a moose-
that make their homes on the
or repairs. Take a rental
the course is relatively short,
watching tour with prize-
shore, rent a canoe or kayak
To explore the lakes and
activitymaine.com 47
HIGH PEAKS RANGELEY / OQUOSSOC
PHOTO Nice views from Mingo Springs Golf Course
Mingo Springs Golf Course Since 1923
18 HOLES OVERLOOKING RANGELEY LAKE Public welcome
•
Driving Range
Tee times recommended
Food & Drink
Leagues & Tournaments
Trail & Bird Walk
Lessons & Rentals
Memberships Available
207-864-5021 | 43 Country Club Road • Rangeley, Maine | mingosprings.com
at Ecopelagicon Kayak Rentals
distance of restaurants
(www.ecopelagicon.com) on Pond
and shops, have beautiful
Street in Rangeley. Single and
lakefront views; some have
double kayaks, canoes and
well-equipped kitchenettes.
standup paddle boards can
For lakeside rental cabins,
be rented by the hour, day
contact Russell’s Rentals, (www.
or week. Ecopelagicon also
rlrentals.com).
offers tours and lessons in all three sports. You can find equipment and
little spot of heaven in the
clothing for all your water
Rangeley region, whether it’s
sports and other outdoor
a cozy cabin in the woods or a
activities at Rangeley Region
family-sized lakeside retreat.
Sports Shop in Rangeley or
Start the day with an
at Rivers Edge Sports Shop in
omelet or eggs benedict
Oquossoc.
at The Gingerbread House
Most guides provide the
Restaurant on routes 4 and 17
equipment necessary for
in Oquossoc or savor their
their activities. Black Brook
signature crabcakes at dinner
Cove Guide Services (www.
on the wrap-around porch.
blackbrookcove.com)
The Red Onion Restaurant
offers day
or half-day salmon and brook
in Rangeley is known for
trout fishing trips on the
pizza but has a long menu
famous Rapid and Kennebago
of sandwiches, too. Find
rivers, with all equipment
plenty of take-out options
included.
for trail lunches and picnics
The area has plenty more
at family-owned Keep’s Corner
lodging options. The Rangeley
Café and Bakery (207 864-2262)
Inn and Tavern overlooking
on Main Street or at the
Haley Pond in the center of
sandwich deli in the Moose
town, has rooms with lake
Loop Cafe
and mountain views, as well as a farm-to-table dining room. Rooms at the pet-friendly Town and Lake Motel, are on a beach within easy walking
48 summer / fall | 2017
Caryn Dreyfuss Real Estate can help you find your own
HIGH PEAKS RANGELEY / OQUOSSOC Joey & Sheryl Morton Owners
Directly on Rangeley Lake “Open Year Round”
Town & Lake Motel & Cottages (207) 864-3755 P.O. Box 47, 2668 Main Street Rangeley, ME 04970
Email. info@rangeleytownandlake.com
www.rangeleytownandlake.com
Visit
Oquossoc Village YOUR VISIT TO THE RANGELEY REGION would not be complete without stopping by The Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum in Oquossoc. This popular museum has twice been named “Best Sporting Museum in New England” by Yankee Magazine! This gem of a museum features beautiful wildlife and nature-based art as well as numerous artifacts, nine vintage film presentations and antique photographs sharing a unique glimpse into the region’s nationally significant outdoor history. The museum will open 3 new exhibits in 2017 as well as a roster of entertaining programs with its Saturday Summer Series! www.rangeleyoutdoormusem.org | 207-864-3091
Vintage film, unique watercraft, outdoor gizmos and gadgets, mounts, and amazing artifacts.
activitymaine.com 49
HIGH PEAKS N
OT ONLY DOES THE MAINE’S HIGH PEAKS region offer the best outdoor activities you could ever dream of, our small towns and villages will make you feel right at home with plenty of dining, shopping, art and cultural activities and more.
Just take a breath and breathe in the views. There’s so much to do and see in our backyard- make plans for a day trip, long weekend or stay for a week or two! Once you’ve experienced the “Mountains of Possibilities”, you’ll be coming back…again and again.
50 summer / fall | 2017
HIGH PEAKS STRATTON
Where the gossip flows as much as the coffee!!
events |
High Peaks
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information. JUNE 23-25 Family Fun Days in the Village of Stratton Experience old-fashioned, small town Maine fun this weekend in Eustis and Stratton. Family Fun Days will have events going on this Friday through Sunday. Activities this year include: karaoke, yard sales, a parade bounce house and giant water slides, family games, a pie contest and the 18 hole golf tournament. JUNE 24 15th Annual Kingfield POPS The Kingfield POPS returns June 25th for the 14th annual festival. This year’s festival will truly please the crowds featuring once again the Bangor Symphony Orchestra conducted and directed by Grammy Award winner Lucas Richman. JULY 13-16 Kingfield Days In commemoration of our town’s bicentennial, the official 2016 Kingfield Days’ theme is... “Mardi Gras”! Put your thinking caps on and put together a float!!! JULY 15 6th Annual Carrabassett Backcountry Challenge The Town of Carrabassett Valley invites you to participate in the 6th running of the Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge, a mountain bike endurance event. The approximately 100K, 50K, and (new this year) 25K
courses will cover a great mix of backcountry mountain bike terrain winding through the beautiful, unspoiled forests and mountains of Carrabassett Valley and its surrounding communities. AUGUST 6 Carrabassett Summer Festival The 11th Annual Carrabassett Summer Festival returns August 6th, 2016. Located off Route 27 in Carrabassett Valley on Old Huse Mill Rd. A FREE family event with fun for all ages. SEPTEMBER 9 The Flume 5K & 10K Trail Race Join us Saturday, August 20th for Sugarloaf’s first ever trail running race, The Flume. There will be both a 5K and 10K option for this rugged backcountry foot race through the Sugarloaf Nordic Trail network. AUGUST 25-27 Sugarloaf Mountain Bike Festival Sugarloaf is excited to announce the Inaugural Sugarloaf Mountain Bike Festival. We have partnered up with our friends at Carrabassett Region NEMBA to bring a two day, three night Mountain bike festival to the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center OCTOBER 7-9 Sugarloaf Home Coming
A Maine Craft Beer Tasting Event Saturday, October 7 at 4 PM - 8 PM Unlimited local beer tasting, delicious food, live music and fire to keep warm with the gorgeous Maine fall foliage as a backdrop! Rain or shine. Hosted by the Spillover Motel. activitymaine.com 51
A L ON E PHOTOS COURTESY OF HISTORY
Mainers Alex Ribar and son Logan tough it out in HISTORY’s hardest season of survival yet
Text: KAY STEPHENS
F
ans of the survival show, HISTORY’s ALONE, will see Maine represented once again for Season 4 premiering on Thursday, June 15 at 10/9c. Coming off Mainer Zachary Fowler’s win in
Season 3, it’s going to be exciting to see what’s in store for the cast members this summer, particularly because there’s a twist.
Once you’re dropped off into the
and marine construction company,
wilderness…you are not exactly “alone.”
he is taking courses for becoming a
No, not like as in LOST; there are no
Registered Maine Guide.
Smoke Monsters. This season, the show
“As a young man, Maine has been
features a brand new challenge as seven
my playground. When I went into the
could have gone out together, but Stan
pairs of family members are dropped
military, it only honed my outdoor skills
was getting married and it wouldn’t
miles apart on Northern Vancouver
even more, particularly, traditional bow
have worked with the time line, so I
Island, where they must at first find
hunting, which has been a big part of
chose to bring my son,” he said.
each other and once reunited, survive
my life,” he said.
During the show Logan Ribar was 19,
He had a number of family members
just fresh out of high school, and the
he could have chosen to accompany him
youngest cast member on the show’s
come into the show with some home
on this hard-core survival adventure. He
history. “I raised both him and my
court advantages. Having grown up
just so happens to be the older brother
daughter Joslyn, with the same skills:
in the wilderness of Maine by a lake,
of Activity Guides of Maine publisher,
hunting, fishing, building traps, and
he learned to fish, hunt, forage and
Stan Rintz, someone he’s spent a lot of
foraging,” he said. “And I knew this
be self-reliant in the woods all of his
time comfortably outdoors with.
would be excellent exposure for him.
together for as long as they can. Montville resident Alex Ribar, 49, has
life. In 1991, he joined the Marines and
“It was a hard choice between my
Any father would have jumped at
served in the Gulf War. Now currently,
brother and my son, Logan; actually it
the opportunity to go on this type of
a foreman and supervisor for a bridge
would have been great if all three of us
adventure with his son.”
52 summer / fall | 2017
off at a home base and the
calorie intake. Especially,
show me the better way to
Perhaps some would think
other dropped nearly 10
since my partner was my
do something. The most
that was a cushier place than
miles away — with no map
son. If you’re not used
important thing is taking
Patagonia (where contestants
to navigate the forest. The
to being outdoors for an
the time to listen to one
were placed last season) and
directive was to find one
extended time with this
another.”
that two people would be
another and coordinate their
person, there are a lot of
easier to survive together
survival together.
variables that people don’t
Maine, we already have a
realize.
built in cheering section for
Northern Vancouver Island;
than one. But that’s not the
“Both Logan and I decided
Here at Activities Guide of
the Ribars and will follow
with my military background,
“Sometimes fathers and
it made more sense for me to
sons butt heads and that’s
them throughout each
seven teams into the
be the one to be dropped 10
normal,” he said. “There
episode of Season 4’s Alone,
wilderness during one of
miles away,” he said. “I was
were times I wanted him to
where the winning pair will
the rainiest and wettest
quite high up in elevation; I
have a little more resilience,
now win a purse of $500,000.
seasons the region had ever
didn’t know where he was
and at the same time, he
experienced, making for
and how many miles apart
was there to teach me things
wants to win the money, but
intensely uncomfortable
we were. I knew I was in for
as well. He told me that
it was a perfect opportunity
conditions and hard-to-find
quite the long haul before I
when we went out there to
for us to have a good
dry firewood. “The terrain
could get to him. The thing I
treat him not like my boy,
bonding experience,” Alex
was like something out
was most concerned about
but like a man, and I had
said. “The time we spent
of Jurassic Park,” recalled
was how he was going to
to keep remembering that.
together was the best thing
Ribar. “It was very much like
find enough to eat until I got
Logan is a very smart young
I could have asked for.”
rainforest terrain, dense
there.”
man and had a lot of good
case. The show dropped the
undergrowth, very harsh and
The show’s relationship
hard to navigate. In a way,
dynamics will play out
it made Patagonia look like
amongst spouses, siblings,
child’s play.”
parents and children—and
Of the ten tools each team
the stress of survival, will
was allowed to bring, Ribar
bring out the best and
said his custom knife made
worst in those dynamics,
with D-2 steel, was the most
something that Ribar
useful in just about every
anticipated. “I think the
scenario, cutting through
addition of one more person
growth, cutting firewood and
actually made it more
hunting.
difficult,” he said. “You’re
Each team was split up with one member dropped
“To be honest, everyone
ideas. And there were times he’d even correct me and
SKOWHEGAN
worried about making sure the other person has enough
skowhegan Brewfest september 2nd 3:00pm – 7pm General Admission Water Street, Skowhegan, ME Join us for the second annual Skowhegan Craft Brew Festival. All proceeds will support onging revitalization efforts in Skowhegan. For ticket and Brewfest information please visit SKOWHEGANCRAFTBREWFEST.COM.
activitymaine.com 53
events |
Wilton/ Farmington
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information. JULY 22 Farmington Summerfest Enjoy a day in downtown Farmington with music and vendors on Broadway. The annual festival includes a farmer’s market, food truck court, artists and crafts people, children’s parade, river float race, 5K run, and musical performances throughout the day and into the evening FMI: www.downtownfarmington.com. AUGUST 4-5 The Wilton Blueberry Festival started in 1982 with a simple ‘Blueberry Church Bazaar’ and has grown into a two-day signature event for people to gather, socialize, and celebrate the heritage of this great region. 35 years running and averaging more than 60 unique events, the festival has something new to offer year after year. FMI: www.wiltonbbf.com.
What would you rather be doing?
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River Valley
AUGUST 26 The Foothills Fest will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Farmington Fairgrounds. It will include music, demonstrations, artisans, food trucks and a business showcase. Admission is $5 for adults, and children younger than 13 are free. FMI: (207) 778-4215, www.franklincountymaine.org. SEPTEMBER 17-23 Farmington Agricultural Fair A large midway, exhibit halls, livestock exhibits, animal pulling events, rides, and harness racing.FMI visit www.farmingtonfairmaine. com or call (207) 778-6083. SEPTEMBER 22 Seth Wescott & Franklin County Chamber of Commerce 15th Annual ScolarshipGolf Classic. Sugarloaf Golf Course, Carabassett Valley
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n Frankline Branch - Online & On The Go! mobile banking, check deposit and bill pay. n Franklin eStatements - Online statements n Maine Cash Access - More than 200 fee-free ATMs in Maine n Saturday hours - Farmington, River Valley, Rangeley and Jay
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WILTON
54 summer / fall | 2017
Ellsworth
FARMINGTON & WILTON W
HETHER YOU ARE A STUDENT OR A VISITOR, Farmington’s prime location among the rolling hills of Western Maine is a perfect jumping-off point to winter adventures and R & R. This picturesque town is home to the University of Maine Farmington, named “One of America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report for 15 consecutive years. In the old-fashioned downtown setting you’ll also find art galleries, plays, concerts, plus a diverse variety of shops and eateries. If you know a college-bound student who’s into the outdoors – really into the outdoors — the University of Maine at Farmington may be the perfect place for her or him to spend their college years. Perfectly located at the gateway to worldclass skiing and snowboarding, the University is also smack in the middle of some of the best hiking, mt. biking, camping, rafting, canoeing and kayaking in Maine.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORTHEAST WHITEWATER
the maine
HIGHLANDS F
ROM MAINE’S HIGHEST PEAK, MT. KATAHDIN, TO ITS LARGEST LAKE, MOOSEHEAD, The Maine Highlands is made up of Piscataquis and Penobscot counties. This region offers outdoor adventures, historic and cultural experiences, culinary and craft brew delights, and thrilling
entertainment opportunities. Located in the center of Maine, there are more than 200 waterfalls, thousands of miles of trails, and dozens of lakes and rivers to explore. The famous Appalachian Trail runs right through these woods!
activitymaine.com 55
a Hidden Gem
MILLINOCKET
I
Text: MARCIE BROWN
F YOU WOULD ENJOY HAVING A GREAT TIME while lending your support to a visitor-
Businesses persevered during
with private baths, cable TV and
the difficult economic downturn
free wireless.
friendly town, Millinocket beckons. It is home to
paper mills in 2008 and 2014;
accommodations with a lot
stunning Baxter State Park, which in turn hosts the
The North Light Gallery, the Good
of amenities, the Katahdin Inn
Samaritan Thrift Store, and Moose
& Suites has you covered with
Prints (check out their stunning
large heated pool, hot tub,
wildlife photographs) are all on
exercise, game and play area,
Central Street. Anita Mueller and
plus a business center for those
her partner, Mark Picard, conduct
working during travel.
formidable Mt. Katahdin, named by the Penobscot Indians. Katahdin translates to “The Greatest Mountain”, Maine’s highest peak at 5,270 feet.
events | Highlands
suffered with the closing of its
photography workshops during
If you are looking for
Whether hiking Mt. Katahdin,
moose and foliage seasons
whitewater rafting, camping,
Marsha Donahue’s North Light
kayaking, swimming, fishing,
Gallery is a stellar example of how
taking a moose tour, or taking in
entrancing local art can be when
the scenery with a cocktail, there
meticulously displayed. Her
is something for every member
MOOSEHEAD LAKE AREA
watercolors are exemplary.
of the family. All that fun while
JULY 4 Independence Day Celebrations
JULY 4 Independence Day Celebration
Another local gem is the
helping this great town, makes
Young House Bed & Breakfast a
heading for Millinocket a very
JULY 28 – AUG. 6 Maine State Fair
SEPTEMBER 7-10 Int. Sea Plane Fly-In
beautifully-preserved inn with
rewarding and worthwhile trip!
five comfortable guest rooms,
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information.
BANGOR AREA
AUG. 5 1st Annual Riverwalk Festival, Newport AUG. 25 -27 American Folk Festival on the Bangor Waterfront
KATAHDIN AREA JULY 4 Independence Day Celebration SEPTEMBER 15 - 16 Trails End Festival
AROOSTOOK COUNTY JULY 1-4 Houlton Fair JULY 4 Independence Day Celebrations throughout the “County” JULY 8 -16 Potato Blossom Festival, Fort Fairfield AUG. 25-26 Houlton Potato Feast Days AUGUST 24-27 Crown of Maine Balloon Festival, Presque Isle
www.katahdininnandsuites.com • info@katahdininnandsuites.com • Large heated pool, hot tub, exercise, game and play area, free internet WIFI, local calls, cable and business center. • FREE Continental Breakfast. • We are motorcycle and pet friendly (some restrictions apply) • We provide a large free trailer parking area
740 Central Street, Millinocket, ME 04462 1-877-902-4555 • 207-723-4555 56 summer / fall | 2017
THE HIGHLANDS MILLINOCKET MEDWAY
5 Guest Rooms featuring:
Private bath • Air conditioning Ceiling fan • Cable TV with DVD player Wireless Internet Plenty of pillows and towels
www.medwaygateway.com
Come and Explore The Pristine Wilderness of the Katahdin Region
Open June through October
Tel. 207-723-5452 193 Central Street, Millinocket, ME 04462 www.TheYoungHouseBandB.com
Rt. 157 (JUST OFF I-95, EXIT 244)
Two Rivers CANOE & TACKLE BIG CANOES Open Tuesday - Saturday Barry and Nancy Davis 207-746-8181 bigcanoe@midmaine.com
Northern Maine’s Fishing Headquarters & GUNS
2323 Medway Rd Medway, ME 04460 www.tworiverscanoe.com
Lennie’s Superette Jaimie & Michelle Wallace
Gas • Beer • Soda • Coffee • Pizza • Subs • Gift Cards Lottery • ATM • Groceries • Worms & Crawlers • Souvenirs
www.lenniessuperette.com 2154 Medway Road, Medway, Maine 04460 Phone: (207) 746-5100 • Hours: 5 am – 10 pm Resident & Non-Resident Fishing & Hunting Licences activitymaine.com 57
A GRAND HIKING CHALLENGE IN MAINE’S NORTH WOODS
F
rom my airy perch on Mt. Kineo, feeling the intense exposure of the dramatic 700-foot cliff face of granite below me, I enjoyed one of the finest vistas anywhere in Maine’s North Woods. The misty gray afternoon skies served only to enhance the wildness that characterizes the magnificent view across the vast waters of
Moosehead Lake to a veritable sea of mountains north, east and south.
It’s little wonder then, I
conservation and recreation
and steel rungs of the old
blazes of the renowned
thought, that Mt. Kineo is one
land in the heart of the 100-
fire tower atop Number
Appalachian Trail on part of its
of the mountains featured
Mile Wilderness. Arno and
Four Mountain (2,890 feet),
2,189-mile route from Georgia
in the Moosehead Pinnacle
Rinard sorted through the
which looms over the wild
to Maine. Anytime from about
Pursuit, which challenges
region’s extensive inventory of
landscape just south of First
midsummer on, you’re likely
hikers to scale six high peaks
mountaintops, finally settling
Roach Pond and includes the
to cross paths with a grizzled
around Maine’s largest lake.
on six peaks with maintained
rugged slopes of Lily Bay and
thru-hiker, now less than
Each summit provides a
foot trails that were accessible
Baker mountains. For many
100 miles from the big prize
unique vantage point for
by road year-round.
years, the only trail to the top
at journey’s end, Katahdin,
was the steep and eroded fire
in clear view from the rocks
natural beauty and unspoiled
GIS (the folks that brought
warden’s trail, but the path
above the treeline high on
quality of the Moosehead Lake
you the Maine Trail Finder)
has been recently rehabilitated
White Cap....
region, much of which enjoys
created the maps, while
by a Maine Conservation Corps
conservation protection.
the Chamber had a colorful
trail crew under the direction
appreciating the immense
The Maine Center for
trails guide produced and
of the Bureau of Parks and
Pursuit was developed as
a website established. For
Lands. A series of well-
another avenue to drive
each mountain, hikers get
designed switchbacks now
nature-based tourism to our
driving directions, round-trip
make the hike a little easier
region,” said Angela Arno,
trail mileage, elevation gain
and much more enjoyable.
Executive Director of the
and trail profiles, everything
Moosehead Lake Chamber of
you need to hit the trail.
peaks is White Cap Mountain
Commerce.
You need only lace up your
(3,644 feet), which requires a
hiking boots, shoulder a day
31-mile drive to reach its base,
Dan Rinard, Operations and
pack and go: to Mt. Kineo,
nearly half of that on gravel
Facilities Manager for the
Number Four Mountain, White
roads. The mountain is also
Appalachian Mountain Club,
Cap Mountain, Eagle Rock,
the most strenuous, with an
which is involved in its own
Big Moose Mountain and
elevation gain of 1,909 feet
eco-tourism effort through
Borestone Mountain.
over the course of the 3.3-mile
“The Moosehead Pinnacle
Arno collaborated with
its Maine Woods Initiative project on its 70,000 acres of
58 summer / fall | 2017
Enjoy an extraordinary vista from the summit ledges
The most remote of the six
climb to the alpine summit. The ascent follows the white
To read the rest of this article go to activitymaine.com and click on this feature story on the home page
Carey Kish of Mt. Desert Island is editor of the AMC Maine Mountain Guide, author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast, and writes a regular hiking column for the Maine Sunday Telegram
BORESTONE MOUNTAIN PHOTO BY CAREY KISH
THE MOOSEHEAD PINNACLE PURSUIT
MT KINEO PHOTO BY CAREY KISH
MOOSEHEAD Lake
L
OCATED OVER 1000 FEET ABOVE THE LEVEL OF THE SEA, LIES THE WORLD FAMOUS MOOSEHEAD LAKE. Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, Moosehead Lake is a destination high above
the rest. Home to an abundant population of moose, this part of Maine announces its grandeur at first site. Indian Hill at Greenville offers a stunning glimpse of this deep lake and the endless mountain range
The most magnificent views are found here as well as the finest dining, at the Blair Hill Inn & Spa. The road continues to Lily Bay State Park, a resource for recreational trails, day and overnight camping and Moosehead’s most popular public beach. Just beyond Lily Bay, half way up Moosehead Lake is the small
that lies ahead. A warm community of quaint shops, local eateries and
town of Kokadjo, population “not many”.
waterfront gardens welcome you in downtown Greenville, Maine.
This is where the pavement ends and the North Maine Woods begin. ATV trails
Guide Outposts are plentiful and can
Rivers. Fly fishermen of all ages and
abound as do the mountain hikes that
provide you with a northern exposure
abilities can also take to the water.
are found here in Maine’s Hundred Mile
adventure of a lifetime. Moose safaris
Wading, drift boat or inflatable raft,
Wilderness. Number 4, Whitecap, Gulf
are best enjoyed by canoe and NorthEast
Wilson’s On Moosehead Lake can show
Hagas and the B52 memorial crash site
Guide Service can provide you with the
you what they do best in the cool
are just a few of the hikes that are found
experience, knowledge and perfect
headwaters of the Kennebec River and
on Moosehead’s east side.
setting for an authentic Maine wildlife
Indian Pond.
tour or whitewater rafting trip along the rapids of the Penobscot & Kennebec
A short drive up the eastern side of Moosehead Lake leads you to Blair Hill.
Opposite Kokadjo on the west side, lies the town of Rockwood, the heart of [ see “LAKE,” page 60 ]
activitymaine.com 59
THE HIGHLANDS
PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHEAST WHITEWATER LODGE & GUIDE SERVICE
events | Moosehead
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information. JUNE 25 9TH Annual C.A. Dean Bike and Boat 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM This fun for all ages ride, bikers travel 19.5 miles from Greenville to Rockwood and return aboard the Katahdin! FMI: Terri Sleeper at 207-973-5058 or Bre Graffam at 207-695-5215 JULY 1 Reds, Whites and Blues Cruise 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM All aboard the Steamship Katahdin for a wine tasting cruise with Cellardoor Winery! Enjoy the sounds of our blues band as we head out for a sunset cruise. Tickets available in advance and guests must be 21 or older. FM!: www.katahdincruises.com 207.695.2716 JULY 4 Celebrations in Greenville and Rockwood Each location has a festive itinerary including firework displays, Chicken BBQ, and a Fireworks Cruise! JULY 13-16 Thoreau – Wabanaki Trail Festival
AUGUST 18 Squaw Freestyle Music Festival. Pack the tent. Haul the RV. Make a weekend of it and camp with us! The Mallett Brothers Band will provide the sound, Moe’s Original BBQ- will provide the main course, Fitzgerald Beach and Squaw Mountain Ski Area will provide the venue. The Friends of Squaw Mountain will provide the experience. Tickets on sale May 30 at 9am. All proceeds to benefit Friends of Squaw Mountain. SEPTEMBER 3 Craft Beer Brews Cruise 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Sample seasonal and specialty brews of Bangor Maine based Geaghan Brothers Brewery while enjoying a scenic cruise aboard the Steamship Katahdin. www.katahdincruises. com, 207.695.2716 SEPTEMBER 9 Fly-In 5K 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM Join fellow runners and walkers and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Moosehead Lake while the planes from the International Seaplane Fly-In buzz overhead! This is a professionally timed race. Register online at: www.mooseheadlake.org/ page/954-833/-FLYIN5, 207.695.2702
PHOTO BY CATHY GENTHNER
[“LAKE” continued from page 59 ]
Moosehead Lake. Rockwood’s
on Moosehead Lake.
location makes it the best
For more information visit
for boating opportunities.
www.friendsofmooseheadlake.org
Here you will find a full
Maynard’s In Maine has
all of your watercraft needs.
provided their guests with
Motorized and non-motorized
outstanding wilderness
boats can be rented at
experiences in addition to
The Birches Resort or Lawrence’s
excellent bungalow style
Lakeside Cabins. No visit to
cabin accommodations and
Rockwood would be complete
great dining with wholesome
without a visit to Mount Kineo
fresh farm foods prepared to
State Park. Accessible only by
perfection. The Moosehead
boat, shuttle transportation
area offers outstanding
can be found for a fee at the
landlocked salmon, trout
Kineo Docks. A beginner hike
and togue fishing. Recently,
will lead you the fire tower
Billy Maynard landed a 29.67
at the summit, giving a 360
lb togue on Moosehead
degree panoramic view of the
Lake measuring 41” long.
entire lake. Mount Kineo is
His huge catch beats the
also home to one of the most
old Moosehead Lake record
historic and scenic 9-hole golf
set in 1961 of a 28 pound
courses in all of New England.
12 ounce togue. The area’s
A short walk across
large, pristine forests provide
the carriage trails leads
excellent cover for deer,
you to Pebble Beach, the
bear and small game and
most beautiful beach on
makeit an outstanding
Moosehead. Pebble Beach sits
hunting region. Here guests
under the 750 foot flint cliffs
at Maynard’s will find a real
of Mount Kineo. A rope swing
pearl in the North Woods.
and smooth stones that you
Maynard’s in Maine can
cannot find anywhere else set
be reached for addition
this beach apart from them
information by tel. (207)
all. Private sailing and lake
534-7703 or on the web at :
fishing charters depart daily
www.maynardsinmaine.com
at Gray Ghost Camps. A sunset sail and an evening spent around the campfire is the perfect way to end any day
60 summer / fall | 2017
For just short of a century,
service Moosehead Marina for
THE HIGHLANDS
GREENVILLE
“A lake...is the earth’s eye.” Henry David Thoreau
See it aboard the Katahdin. Katahdin Cruises on Moosehead Lake Sailing late June thru Columbus Day, Closed Sun. & Mon. Tel: (207) 695-2716 Fax: (207) 695-2367 PO Box 1151 Greenville, ME 04441
www.katahdincruises.com
ROCKWOOD
A Maine Tradition for nearly a century Maynard’s in Maine P.O. Box 220, Rockwood, ME 04478(207) 534-7703 (866) 699-0857 for more information: www.maynardsinmaine.com
activitymaine.com 61
THE HIGHLANDS
BANGOR Gateway to the Highlands
The Queen City is blessed with a number of cultural attractions including the Bangor Symphony Orchestra which is America’s oldest standing symphony, The University of Maine’s Museum of Art, Maine’s Discovery Museum and The Penobscot Theatre. Each month during the summer season numerous events are featured including Maine’s State Fair, the Annual Folk Festival and the Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion Concert program that runs from June through late summer and includes for the 2016 seasons such great artists as Hall and Oats, the Dave Mathews Band , Dixie Chicks and Jimmy Buffett. Summer Camp 2017 – Too Much Fun Awaits! Summer camps will provide nine weeks of fun and excitement, from June 14 through August 18. To find out more specifics and registration contact us at: www.mainediscoverymuseum.org.
June to Labor Day
Rae Ann Rice, Home Mortgage Specialist with Regency Mortgage Corporation of Bangor has been assisting folks for nearly a decade through the process of purchasing or refinancing of their home. Her professional expertise, compassion and drive will turn your need into a reality. You can reach her by Tel. 207-974-8996 or by E-mail: rrice@regencymtg.com.
62 summer / fall | 2017
Playland Adventures is the largest family entertainment center in Maine. With over 21,000 sq ft of fun, whether rain or shine, you’re sure to find something to please everyone in the family. From mid June Labor Day, they have 5 inflatable water slides for kids ages 4-12 and a kiddie pool for those under 2, out back of the building. Perfect for those hot days! Playland Adventures also host parties and field trips.
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MID-COAST PHOTOS MICHAEL LEONARD
E
XTENDING FROM BRUNSWICK TO ROCKLAND, midcoast Maine offers a quiet, pastoral setting, as well as a rocky, rugged coastline. Scenic
bays, craggy peninsulas and sparkling islands, picture-perfect fishing villages, historic forts and lighthouses, seaside resorts and bustling harbor towns all comprise this region.
Fishing and ship building
oyster shell mounds along
sustained the area for
river beds. See the harbor
enturies. You can easily delve
seals next to Fort Popham.
into Maine’s maritime past
Browse through an antique
that’s enhanced by a visit to
shop.
the Maine Maritime Museum. Enjoy cool summer breezes
Go on a puffin tour, whale watch or sport fishing trip.
and vistas of sparkling blue
Purchase art directly from an
water as you explore the area
artisan. Catch a ferry to one
by foot, bike or sea kayak.
of the islands, hike Mount
Expect quiet roads, gentle
Battie in the Camden Hills.
rolling hills and secluded
Take an afternoon cruise
beaches. View a sunrise on
on a two-masted schooner.
the Bay. Eat fresh eggs from a
Stroll through the Coastal
local farm. Watch bald eagles,
Maine Botanical Gardens,
ospreys and terns along the coast. Explore the prehistoric
64 summer / fall | 2017
[ see “Mid-Coast,” page 66 ]
MID-COAST MAINE
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEASPRAY KAYAKING
ON THE WATER In & Around Bath, Maine
IF YOU HAVE BEEN THINKING
Owner Scott Shea has a
ABOUT GETTING ON THE
huge fleet of the latest kayaks
WATER there is no more
— including recreational
exciting way to do it than
kayaks, sit-on tops,
kayaking, and Seacoast
expedition sea kayaks, fishing
Kayaking makes it easy. Owner
kayaks, double kayaks, canoes
Scott Shea has a huge fleet of
as well as a variety of Stand-
the latest kayaks — including
Up Paddleboards! Seaspray
recreational kayaks, sit-on
Kayaking prides itself on being
tops, expedition sea kayaks,
able to accommodate all who
fishing kayaks, double kayaks,
desire to get on the water.
canoes as well as a variety
They even have lifejackets for
of Stand-Up Paddleboards!
dogs, young kids, and infants.
And with two great paddling
“There is no excuse,” said
centers on the water in
Scott. “We have something
Midcoast Maine, a Retail
for everyone: Sunset Paddles,
Outlet with new and used
Moonlight Paddles, Kayak &
equipment, two Rental
Paddleboard Tours, Guided
Centers, and the ability
Fishing Trips, Surf Kayaking
in West Bath, ME and Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME
to deliver kayaks, canoes,
at Popham Beach, Island-to-
WE DELIVER! Call Today!
paddle boards, and gear
Island Overnights, Inn-to-Inn
to your location, Seacoast
Trips, Private Lobster Bakes
can have you on the water
on uninhabited islands,
within minutes of deciding to
Paddleboard Yoga and Birding
explore the Coast of Maine.
[ see “On The Water,” p. 67]
Seaspray Kayaking Your one-stop paddling shop in midcoast Maine! • Canoe, Kayak, and Paddleboard Rentals • Daily Guided Tours @ 9 am and 1 pm • Instructional Classes
LOCATED ON THE WATER
(207) 443-3646
• Kayak Fishing • Surf Kayaking • Sunset/Moonlight Paddles • and more ...
5
$ OFF Rentals and Guided Tours
Good for each person in
your group
info@seaspraykayaking.com | www.seaspraykayaking.com activitymaine.com 65
MID-COAST MAINE PHOTO BY MICHAEL LEONARD
BRUNSWICK
[“Mid-Coast” continued from page 64 ]
where there are always
been frequented by Maine
interesting textures, shapes
fishermen, Naval aviators,
and colors to be seen from the
Bowdoin College students
many trails.
and thousands of coastal
Life in the Midcoast operates
outdoor writers & photographers wanted Email subscribe@activitymaine.com with ideas or content!
BATH
vacationers. Fat Boy is world
at a slower pace and yet there
famous (it really is!) for its
is so much to do. The sea air
Canadian BLT’s, Maine Lobster
will whet your appetite as
Rolls, and 20oz. Thick Western
you realize this is the way life
Frappes. Then, of course,
should be.
there are their Whopper
Every spring, the residents
Burgers. And when you need
of Brunswick eagerly await
service, simply turn on your
the opening of Fat Boy Drive-
headlights and one of the
In and every fall they mourn
friendly waitresses will be
when it closes. Each summer
happy to serve you.
since 1955, Fat Boy has
MAINE MARITIME MUSEUM This is Maine. The rest is history.
Lighthouse cruises. Trolley tours. Historic shipyard. New for 2017 – Into the Lantern: A Lighthouse Experience www.MaineMaritimeMuseum.org
243 Washington Street • Bath, Maine • 207-443-1316
66 summer / fall | 2017
MID-COAST MAINE WOOLWICH
STARCRAFT
PHOTO MICHAEL LEONARD
• Storage • Sales & Service • Parts & Accessories • Boat & Utility Trailers • Over 60 Years Experience • We Service What We Sell
443-3022 126 U.S. Route 1, Woolwich, Maine 04579
[“On The Water” continued from p. 65 ]
on the Bay.” Because July and
limited, and reservations
August can be extremely
highly recommended.
busy, it is best to make
Members $24; nonmembers
reservations ahead of time:
$30; children under 12 $20.
207-443-3646 | seaspraykayaking.
More Bath history can be
com. Want to get on the water
had on the Bath Cemetery Tour: Famed Captains and Shipbuilders
but Kayaking isn’t your
(June 15 – October 12, 22 and
thing? Maine Maritime Museum
29th). From the Museum,
offers Kennebec River
you will ride the trolley
lighthouse and nature cruises
to Oak Grove Cemetery,
from June 1 – October 23
one of Bath’s oldest and
giving you an up-close look
largest cemeteries, which
at Navy destroyers under
contains the most varied
construction at Bath Iron
collections of memorial art
Works, lighthouses, and
in Bath and is a virtual who’s
the unique ecosystem of
who of historic maritime
Merrymeeting Bay.
families. Learn about the
The Bath Iron Works Story
fascinating history of these
Trolley Tour, June 2 - October
shipbuilding competitors,
28, tells the inside story of
and examine the symbolism
Bath Iron Works with current
of these amazingly crafted
and former BIW employees
memorials to gain a greater
as your guides. The tour
understanding of Bath’s
begins with an exclusive
maritime prominence. A
exhibit highlighting key
portion of this tour involves
elements of BIW’s history
moderate walking on
followed by an introductory
uneven ground. Seating is
video that documents the
limited; reservations are
process of constructing
suggested. Tours held May
the most advanced ships
14, June 15, October 12, 22
in the world. Then board
and 29. Seating is limited;
the trolley for a rolling tour
reservations are suggested.
through Bath where guides
Members $20; nonmembers
will detail the history of the
$27; under age 17 $12 (Fee
yard, interpret the views, and
includes museum admission)
highlight key elements of
mainemaritimemuseum.org
the shipyard. Seating is very
2ND ANNUAL SUNRISE LIGHTHOUSE PHOTO CRUISE — BOOTHBAY HARBOR —
Hosted by Professional Photographer and Photoshop instructor Michael Leonard, you will achieve top shots of area lighthouses on this special cruise. Book now at www.balmydayscruises.com (see last year’s photos on page 64) activitymaine.com 67
MID-COAST MAINE
GEORGETOWN T
HE ISLAND OF GEORGETOWN, MAINE, IS ONE
If camping is your style,
station and the new post
OF THE MAINE COAST’S BEST-KEPT SECRETS.
Sagadahoc Campground is
office. They have everything a
an amazing oceanfront
store should have for locals,
campground where you
tourist, and the lunch crowd.
can enjoy crashing surf,
People rave about the pizza
soaring ospreys and the
and onion rings but there is
Pottery, offering some of Maine’s finest hand-
cry of seagulls and rent a
so more delicious foods there
painted porcelain pottery featuring Maine and
clamming rake and dig your
and plenty of smiles to go
clams with a town permit!
around.
Take a driving tour to discover some of its
hidden gems on a day trip or an extended weekend getaway. On Route 127 South, you’ll pass Georgetown
nautical themes. On your way to Reid State Park, you’ll pass The Mooring B&B, the remodeled former
And what classic Maine town would be complete with out
home of Walter Reid, who donated the land for Reid
a store with local flavor. The
State Park. The inn offers five unique rooms, all
Georgetown Country Store is a
with private baths, air conditioning and stunning ocean views.
68 summer / fall | 2017
well established modern land mark between the fire
BELOW COURTESY OF GEORGETOWN CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS
Georgetown Country Store, Serving the Lobster & Grill best Lobster Rolls in town at
Seafood Baskets • Salad Plates a great price! Crab Rolls • Sandwiches Pizza • Breakfast • Lobster • Steamers Corn • Red Potatoes The Best Homemade Onion Rings Around! Five Island Road Georgetown
371-2106
Five Islands Farm Fine Food & Garden Market
Maine Cheese Local Produce Gourmet Food Maine Meats
Local Oysters Fine Wine Craft Beer Garden Accents
PHOTO MICHAEL LEONDARD
Maine Cheese Tastings: Fridays from 2-4 July 1st-Aug 18th. 1375 Five Islands Road, Georgetown ME PH. (207) 371-9383 www.fiveislandsfarm.com
E S T. 19 72
Chowder Mugs are a Four-Season Favorite
Say you saw it here! All businesses appreciate knowing where their customers come from and most of our advertisers will reward you with a discount for mentioning Activity Maine brought you in. 18 oz. | Seasonal Birch, Coastal Lighthouse
GEORGETOWN Celebration of the Arts
Route 127 GEORGETOWN
148 Main Street FREEPORT
813 Route 1 WOOLWICH
866 936 7687 georgetownpottery.com
Georgetown, Maine will be celebrating its island artists on Sunday, July 23, at The Mooring B&B- 132 Seguinland Road (near Reid State Park). Mark your calendars for this fun and free event and come see how our island inspires creativity! Highlighting the abundance of creativity generated by residents of the Georgetown island community. Free light refreshments, a youth pavilion. Light/ moderate rain will not cancel though heavy rain will. A FREE event sponsored by the Georgetown Historical Society 207-371-9200, georgetownhistoricalsociety.org
activitymaine.com 69
MID-COAST MAINE WISCASSET
K
NOWN AS THE “PRETTIEST VILLAGE IN MAINE,” Wiscasset was settled in 1663 on the banks of the Sheepscot River. Due to its deep harbor,
Wiscasset was once the largest working harbor east of Boston as a bustling shipbuilding center and lumber port. Today, the harbor is home to local fishermen and recreational boaters and the final resting place since 1932 for the four-masted schooners the Hesper and the Luther Little, whose remains are currently being salvaged. Visitors to Wiscasset can
Tucker (1807), the old Lincoln
stroll the pleasant brick
County Jail (1809), and the
sidewalks and find many
Customs House (1870). If
antique shops, art galleries,
you haven’t seen Wiscasset
fine stores and restaurants.
Village’s wonderful sunken
Other attractions include
garden opposite the Nickels-
handsome sea captains’
Sortwell House—take an
homes, the Powder House
extra few minutes and enjoy
(1812), the Lincoln County
its beauty.
Courthouse (1824), Castle
Our NEW GORILLA TACTICS OUTDOOR TACTICAL LASER TAG ARENA is hours of “on the ground-in your face fun” as you and your team try to out play, out wit, outmaneuver, and out last your opponents. The newest infra-red technology weaponry so they work out doors in the daytime and the guns are wifi- and blue tooth capable. This is Maine’s first and ONLY dedicated outdoor laser tag venue! It plays like “paint-ball” but without the “hurt”. Gorrila Tactics is NOT your “bang-bang shootem’ up glow in the dark laser tag”! Strategic “missions” are carried out and may the best team win! Multiple games, multiple missions, and mulitple hours of adrenalized fun for those of us that would like to sense “danger” a little closer to the ground. Call or email us today for prices and availability.
70 summer / fall | 2017
MID-COAST MAINE
Discover
BOOTHBAY Harbor
PHOTO MICHAEL LEONARD
T rain Lovers Take Note
“No Rig Too Big or Too Small”
CAMPGROUND & RV PARK
Groups Welcome
Photo by Robert Mitchell, Southport, ME
3 1/2 Miles to Boothbay Harbor - Shuttle Service
Store • Cable TV • 150 Open, Wooded & Riverside Sites • Full Hook-ups (30/50)
(207) 633-4782 • www.shorehills.com
553 Wiscasset Road • Rte. 27, Boothbay, ME 04537 Open May - October • Reservations Suggested
send us your selfies! Send a selfie of you in the great Maine outdoors, along with your name and location, to subscribe@activitymaine.com for the chance to be in an upcoming issue!
An Unforgettable Maine Experience
BURNT ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE
Boothbay Railway Village
By late 1963, George McEvoy, just 27 years old, was amassing a collection of railroad memorabilia that filled the family home in Grafton, Massachusetts and it appeared that their Southport, Maine summer cottage was about to succumb to the same fate. He had to find a place to store his collection. In May of 1965, the then Boothbay Railway Museum opened to the public for the first time, making it the first public railroad museum in Maine. Later that summer when the steam engine arrived and was put into service it was the first narrow gauge train to run in Maine for nearly three decades and the only passenger rail service in Maine for nearly two more decades. Today when you visit the Museum you’ll learn about how technologies like steam engines and the automobile changed life along the coast of Maine between 1850 and 1950. In addition to a ride in a vintage coach behind a vintage steam or diesel locomotive, the Museum also occasionally offers rides in one of it’s Ford Model Ts. Two of the most popular attractions are the pair of resident goats who delight visitors of all ages with their antics. From a display of hundreds of salt & pepper shakers to a collection of engines that powered everything from small boats to whole factories, there truly is something for everyone in your family here. Visit the Museum’s website at RailwayVillage.org to learn more about this special Maine place.
BALMY DAYS CRUISES PIER 8 42 Commercial Street Boothbay Harbor, ME (207) 633-2284 or book online at www.balmydaycruises.com
Monhegan Island Harbor Tour & Harbor Lights Lighthouse Tour Mackerel Fishing Sailing Trips
SAILING ON BAY LADY activitymaine.com 71
BOOTHBAY HARBOR
FR I E N
Y DL
P ET
des :
Tickets: RailwayVillage.org
BOOTHBAY
Railway Village
( Rails + Tails + Ales )
207-633-4727 | ROUTE 27, BOOTHBAY
S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1 5
NOBLEBORO / PEMAQUID
Rails, Tails & Ales The Midcoast Craft Beer Festival is turning 4 years old this summer. From the beginning the organizers of this event, likely Maine’s most intimate beer fest, wanted to be different. The event takes place at the Boothbay Railway Village on the same weekend as their annual car show. The site is both dog and kid-friendly so the entire family can spend the day together. Instead of being all under one roof the participating brewers are spread throughout the exhibits. You can even meet hops growers, malt producers and the Maine Brew Bus folks here. Brewers rate this as one of their favorite events to attend, according to Mike Fava of head brewer for Oxbow, “We had an amazing time and connected with numerous local beer fans. We actually had time to chat with folks!”
Quiet, Wooded Sites on Pemaquid Lake Pool • Jacuzzis • Sauna Rec Hall • Playgrounds Rentals Boats, Canoes and Kayaks Swimming • Fishing Scheduled Summer Activities & Events Store • Snack Bar Rental Cabins & Cottages E,W,S Hookups • WiFi Avail. Locally Owned & Operated
PO Box 967, 100 Twin Cove Lane, Damariscotta, ME 04543
SEA ACRES MOTEL
23 Bradley Hill Road, Pemaquid, Maine 04558
(207) 677-2693
Private Dock Kitchenettes • Full Baths Color Cable TV • Pool Short walk to Coombs Cove MasterCard & Visa Open June–September Steve & Beverly Lord
Great for Family Reunions! 72 summer / fall | 2017
n
Lin
e Campin g
A Family Tradition Since 1960
TLC in Maine
Da ma
C
www.seaacrescottages.com
Family Atmosphere
LL
May & October by Reservation
Tow
207-563-5202 • www.lakepemaquid.com
ke riscotta La
225 Town Line Road Nobleboro, ME 04555 Tel. 832-7055 www.townlinecamping.com • 55 spacious site • Docks • Floats • Swimming Area • Fireplaces • Lake Fishing • Modern Bathrooms • Laundry • Rec Room • HOT Showers • Athletic Field • Electronic Games • Well-Stocked Camp Store
PHOTOS COUTESY OF SCHOONER HERON
MID-COAST MAINE
PENOBSCOT P
ENOBSCOT BAY IS MADE UP OF EIGHT VILLAGES; Brunswick, Bath, Wiscasset,
Text FRANCES J. FOLSOM
Damariscotta, Rockland, Rockport, Camden and Belfast. Make Rockland your home base for exploring the region and you will discover that this special
area is easy to fall in love with.
Stay
Jamie, an addition to the
Cayley, an 1893 Lilienthal and
The Historic Inns of Rockland is
original museum for Andrew.
an 1896 Chanute.
comprised of three elegant
The Maine Lighthouse
At the Project Puffin Audubon
Lake Avenue in Rockland is the place to be on July 16th & 17th for the North Atlantic
inns, the Berry Manor Inn,
Museum is a treasure trove
Center learn about the
Blues Festival. From August
Limerock Inn and the Granite
of lighthouse artifacts
project’s purpose – bringing
3rd through 7th Rockland
Inn. Each offers an array of
and memorabilia. Exhibits
puffins, hunted to extinction,
hosts the Maine Lobster Festival.
specials during the summer.
showcase antique fog horns
back to Maine. Of the 954
Although chowing down on
and two rare second and
puffins brought to Eastern Egg
lobster is the theme there’s
fourth order Fresnel lenses.
Rock in Muscongus Bay by
also live entertainment, arts
Do The Farnsworth Art Museum
One wing of the Owls Head
the Audubon Society in 1973
and crafts, seafood cooking
houses the largest collection
Transportation Museum holds a
914 survived, were banded,
contests, a beauty pageant
in New England of works by
reproduction of the plane the
fledged and returned to the
and a parade.
the Wyeth family, N.C., his
Wright brothers flew in 1903
island. Today Project Puffin
son Andrew and grandson
on their first flight at Kitty
oversees 1,000 pairs of puffins
Rockport has nine greens
Jamie. The collection is in
Hawk NC. The collection also
nesting on five Maine islands.
spread out on a lush
three buildings; a restored
includes a 1910 Henri Farman
At the Visitors Center you can
landscape that was once a
church and the Farnsworth
III Biplane, a 1917 Curtiss JN-
watch puffins in their natural
dairy farm. See Rockport from
Homestead for N.C. and
4D Jenny used in World War
habitat via live video streams.
the water on a sail aboard the
I and three gliders, an 1804
The Goose River Golf Club in
Schooner Heron.
activitymaine.com 73
MID-COAST MAINE
PHOTOS Right and opposite: MICHAEL LEONDARD Above: COURTESY OF NORTH ATLANTIC BLUES FESTIVAL
HARBOR PARK IN ROCKLAND MAINE
JULY 15 & 16 2017
BLUES
FESTIVAL
FESTIVAL HOTLINE 207.691.2248 • WWW.NORTHATLANTICBLUESFESTIVAL.COM ADVANCE TIX $30/DAY-$55/WEEKEND • ADVANCE TIX SALES END MONDAY JULY 10, 2017 • TIX AT THE GATE $40/DAY-$75/WEEKEND
74 summer / fall | 2017
MID-COAST MAINE
WALDOBORO
ROCKLAND
activitymaine.com 75
MID-COAST MAINE ROCKPORT
Goose River Golf Club
Est. 1965 Est. 1965 • Public welcome
Nine greens on the Camden/Rockport line offering distinctly different tees on front and back nines Cart & Club Rental • Golf Lessons Pro Shop • Practice Range
P.O. Box 1230 • 50 Park Street, Rockport, ME 04856 • 207-236-8488 ** Receive $5 off in July & August with this Coupon **
Sailing Adventures aboard a Classic Schooner
207-236-8605
HERON
3 trips daily THE LAURA B. COURTESY OF MONHEGAN TRUCKING
Rockport Harbor www.sailheron.com
Adventure awaits you aboard the 65’ Schooner Heron. Choose from our Island Sail with Lobster lunch, Afternoon Eco/Wildlife Sail or Sunset Dinner Sail. Each trip takes you on an unforgettable sail among pristine islands of Penobscot Bay. As Heron glides mightily through the water you will experience the amazing coast of Maine with its many lighthouses, working lobster boats, rocky ledges dotted with harbor seals, osprey and eagle soaring overhead, traditional windjammers sailing among spruce studded islands and even harbor porpoise swimming alongside the boat. Whether you like Lobster lunch, Educational Eco-tour or Serene Sunset Dinner, you will love Heron. Mention Activity Maine and get 10% off a sail.
Eat
Monhegan
James Beard award winning
To catch the boat for
chef Melissa Kelly of Primo
Monhegan Island head south
Restaurant grows her own
out of Rockland on Route 1
vegetables and raises pigs
through Thomaston, turn
and chickens on her farm.
onto Route 131 to Port Clyde
The menu changes frequently
on the St. George Peninsula.
but could include rabbit
The Monhegan Boat Line runs
sausage and Estrella noodles,
several trips daily to the
pan seared day-boat scallops
island. On Monhegan you
with fiddleheads or mustard
can complete your Wyeth
brined and grilled Primo
experience; the island was
grown pork T-bone,
a favorite subject of Jamie
The Rockland Café is a no frills
Wyeth.
place, where everything is homemade. Here you can get a classic Maine breakfast….. fish cakes and beans.
PORT CLYDE COASTAL DISCOVERY CRUISES 2- to 2½-hour cruises
Puffins/Nature • Lighthouses Sunset Puffin/Nature Cruise • Charters
The original
MONHEGAN ISLAND MAIL BOAT EXPERIENCE 3 trips daily during summer
W W W
.
Craig Carreno
M O N H E G A N B O A T
76 summer / fall | 2017
.
C O M
PHOTO BY KAY STEPHENS
207-372-8848
PHOTO BY SHANNON BRYAN
MID-COAST MAINE
Belfast welcomes you B
elfast features great shopping, entertainment,
BELFAST
29 Years! Now Bigger & Better Than Ever!
Route One Searsport Ave. Belfast, Maine
www.bennettsgems.com 207.338.5530
restaurants, accommodations and easy access from land or sea. The city is surrounded by fine
motels, restaurants, shops, parks and galleries. Belfast has become a popular destination for boaters of all
• Open All Year • • Since 1989 • Next to Perry’s Nut House Cash For Your Gold, Silver & Coins!
kinds. Sit by the harbor, relax and enjoy! Moorings in the magnificent harbor now number more than 200, with room for many more. The parks and shoreline
collectibles. Be sure and
make inviting places for
visit our Historic Downtown
picnics. Catch a movie or visit
Shopping section. You will
the music theatre, art fairs,
find merchants willing and
hobby shows and special
ready to courteously serve
holiday events. Antique
you and make your shopping
shops and art galleries
experience a pleasant one!
are filled with one-of-akind items and interesting
Specialty Cookware Cutlery • Linens Counter Top Appliances Cookbooks • Glassware • Gadgets
1656
Featured on “The Best Thing I Ever Ate” on Food Networks
www.thegoodtable.me activitymaine.com 77
ACADIA GO CLIMB A ROCK! ACADIA MOUNTAIN GUIDES CLIMBING SCHOOL was voted the #1 family activity in Maine in 2014 by and received a 2015 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence. They have been featured by Outside Magazine, National Geographic Adventure Magazine, Bill Green’s Maine Outdoors, CBS, Travel Channel and more.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE?
your risks and each year
Am I too old? There are no
thousands of people like you
age limitations. Dick Chasse,
climb safely on the rocks
a senior guide at Acadia
for the first time. Acadia
Mountain Guides has guided
Mountain Guides outfits
clients from age four to
you with all needed safety
eighty-one.
gear such as helmets and
CAN I DO IT? Can my family do
can climb.” It’s a great activity
it? Virtually anyone can rock
for an individual, couple,
IS IT SAFE? Like driving a car,
with expert instruction and
climb. The guides at Acadia
family or group that requires
climbing carries some level of
guide you every step of the
Mountain Guides say “if you
only a moderate level of
risk. Rock climbing is not an
way so you can focus on the
can climb a step ladder, you
fitness.
extreme sport. Professional
fun.
harnesses, and provide you
guides focus on minimizing
78 summer / fall | 2017
MOUNTAIN GUIDES 207-866-7562
PHOTO COURTESY OF ACADIA
& Downeast
ACADIA & DOWNEAST
Ride the Trolley!
WHO SHOULD I CLIMB WITH?
forefront of guide education
In Maine Acadia Mountain
for over two decades.” They
Guides stands has a long
appreciate his mentorship,
history of providing great
attention to detail, and
instruction.They are
desire to constantly improve
accredited by the American
the delivery and safety of
Mountain Guides Association
climbing instruction. You will
and the Professional Climbing
too.
Instructors Association. Under the same ownership since opening in 1993, AMG is led by internationally licensed IFMGA guide Jon Tierney. Jon is one of 80 US guides
The Best Way to See Acadia National Park!
Acadia’s Only Trolley Tour!
Oli’s Trolley Gift Shop - 1 West Street Bar Harbor, Maine 207 288-9899 Authorized
for tickets and information log on to olistrolley.com
Concessionaire
Ride the Trolley and let the local guides amuse and inform you. of Acadia National Park, fully5/3/17 5:09 PM narrated tours of Acadia National Park are offered daily. Also, enjoy a fully narrated tour of Bar Harbor For departures and tickets www.olistrolley.com, 207-288-9899, 1 West Street – Oli’s Trolley Shop or 55 West Street – Oli’s Trolley Station
OlisTrolleyActivityGuideAdtemplate2017.indd 1 As an authorized concessionaire
to achieve the IFMGA award signifying the pinnacle of achievement for guides. The guides who work for Jon say “he has been at the
activitymaine.com 79
exposure. Aperture mode is best for doing still life, portraits and for those times when you want or need to control the depth of field or the selective focus in a scene.
tricking your camera There is a fifth way where you can trick most new DSLR cameras to assist with the exposure, which can help you make your
HOW TO
Photograph Whales and Other Elusive Wildlife
best shot. The Manual mode is usually where you make ALL of the exposure decisions in your camera, including the light sensitivity or ISO. By setting the ISO to Auto you can force your camera to assist with the exposure based on your Shutter and Aperture settings and on the available light in the scene.In Manual mode you can set the shutter speed, to freeze the motion as desired, and set the lens aperture to get the selective focus or depth of field that you want all while letting the camera
I
Text & Photo MICHAEL LEONARD
n most DSLR cameras there are 4 popular modes where exposure decisions are either fully or partially made for you by the computer in the camera. Those 4 modes are…
FULL AUTO – GREEN: where the camera
figure out the proper ISO to make a good exposure. Here is an example – you are going on a whale watch and want to come back with sharp images, but you are on a moving boat and the subject matter is moving as well. Here’s what you do…
chooses everything for you. You will
‘TV’ OR ‘S’ IS FOR TIME VALUE OR SHUTTER MODE: where you set the
and set the shutter speed to a fast setting
certainly make a picture, but usually not
shutter speed and the camera assists by
– 1/1000th to 1/2000th of a second for
with the best results possible.
selecting the lens aperture appropriately
instance. Most lenses have a sweet spot
to make a good exposure. A fast shutter
where their sharpness is the best, usually
‘P’ OR THE PROGRAM MODE: where
speed can be a good option for freezing
between f/8 and f/11. Set the aperture
the camera chooses the exposure for
action to reduce motion blur when
in this range favoring f/11 to get the
you. Your camera will set the shutter
shooting moving subjects.
sharpest image from your lens and to
Select Manual mode in your camera
also gain more depth of field. Next set
speed and the lens f/stop to make a picture and this is a good all-around
‘A’ OR APERTURE VALUE: where you
the ISO to ‘Auto’ and let your camera
mode in which to shoot for everyday
choose the lens f/stop or Aperture
assist by adjusting the light sensitivity
photography.
and the camera assists by selecting
accordingly.These settings work best
the appropriate shutter speed (time)
in areas with bright sunlight. In darker
to collect light to make a good
scenes, the ISO may be raised too high causing noise in the picture that will
BAR HARBOR WHALE WATCH PHOTO CRUISES
manifest as grain. This ‘Auto-Manual’ or ‘Manual-Auto’ technique also works well
JULY 28 Intro to Digital Photography – Bar Harbor Maine
for photographing birds, surfers, and other
JULY 29 Grand Slam Lighthouse Tour book at www.barharborwhales.com - Sold Out
moving subjects where you want to have
SEPTEMBER 16 4 hour Lighthouse cruise book at www.barharborwhales.com
the ability to control the sharpness of the
OCTOBER 13 Intro to Digital Photography – Bar Harbor Maine
image.
OCTOBER 14 Penobscot River Lighthouse Photography Cruise book at www.barharborwhales.com
Give it a try the next time you are out photographing and see if it helps you to make your best shot.
80 summer / fall | 2017
events |
Acadia & Downeast
Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information.
JUNE
AUG. 4 Bar Harbor – First Friday Art Walk
JUNE 10 Machias Annual Margaretta Day Festival, University of Maine Machias
AUG. 9 Lubec- Christian Congregational Church 7pm - Summer Keys Concert
JUNE 17-18 Bar Harbor Art in the Park
AUG. 9-13 Calais ME &/St. Stephen, NB 44th International Homecoming Festival
JUNE 17 Machias –Outdoor free movie weather permitting, Chamber Grounds. JUNE 21 Lubec –Christian Congregational Church, 7: 30 pm, Summer Keys Concert JUNE 25 Lubec – Bay of Fundy International Marathon
JULY
AUG. 9 Bar Harbor– Seaside Cinema in the Park-weather permitting AUG. 12 Machias – Outdoor free movie weather permitting on Chamber grounds AUG. 13 Perry – 49th Annual Indian Celebration at Pleasant Point AUG. 16 Bar Harbor – Seaside Cinema in the Park weather permitting
JULY 1 Machias – Outdoor free movie weather permitting, Chamber grounds
AUG. 16 Lubec – Christian Congregational Church 7: 30 , Summer Keys Concert
JULY 4 Independence Day Celebrations throughout the Region. Eastport hosts largest celebration and Old Home Week.
AUG.18 -20 Machias – 41st Annual Wild Blueberry Festival
JULY 7 Bar Harbor – First Friday Art Walk JULY 12 Lubec - Christian Congregational Church 7:30 pm, Summer Keys Concert JULY 12 Bar Harbor – Seaside Cinema in the Park –weather permitting JULY 15 Machias – Outdoor free movie weather permitting on Chamber grounds JULY 19 Lubec – Christian Congregational Church 7: 30 pm, Summer Keys Concert
AUG. 26 Machias – Outdoor free movie weather permitting on Chamber grou AUG. 30 Lubec- Christian Congregational Church 7:30, Summer Keys Concert
SEPTEMBER SEPT. 2 Bar Harbor – First Friday Art Walk SEPT. 2-3 Eastport – Salmon & Seafood Festival SEPT. 8-10 Eastport: Pirate Festival SEPT. 21-29 Bar Harbor – Night Sky Festival
JULY 23 Open Farm Day across all of Maine
SEPT. 22-26 Ellsworth –Autumn Gold
JULY 26 Bar Harbor – Seaside Cinema in the Park weather permitting
SEPT. 30 Machias – 3rd Annual Harvest Fair CONTACT LOCAL CHAMBERS
JULY 29 Eastport – Bay Day
Bar Harbor Chamber 1-800-288-5103 or 207-288-5103
JULY 29-30 Grand Lake Stream Folk & Art Festival
Blue Hill Chamber 1-800-288-5103 or (207) 288-5103
JULY 29 Machias – Outdoor free movie weather permittings Chamber grounds
Calais/St. Croix Valley Chamber 1-888-422-3112 or (207) 454-2308
AUGUST
Eastport Chamber 207-853-4644
AUG. 2 Lubec- Christian Congregational Church 7:30 pm, Summer Keys Concert AUG. 2 Bar Harbor – Seaside Cinema in the Park weather permitting
B I G . B LU E . B E AU T I F U L .
AUG. 22 Lubec– Christian Congregational Church 7:30 pm, Summer Keys Concert
JULY 19 Bar Harbor- Seaside Cinema in the Park weather permitting
JULY 26 Lubec- Christian Congregational Church 7:30 pm, Summer Keys Concert
ULTIMATE THRILL OF A WHALE WATCH ADVENTURE!
AUG 9-13 St. Stephen, NB 33rd Annual Chocolate Festival
JULY 1 Canadian Day Celebrations: Campobello Island & St. Stephen, NB
JULY 5 Lubec – Christian Congregational Church 7 pm, Summer Keys Concert
No trip to Bar Harbor is complete without the
Machias Bay Chamber 207-255-4402 Ellsworth Chamber 207-667-5584
Whale & Puffin Watching Tour - 8:30AM Whale Watching Tour - 1:00PM Sunset Whale Watching Tour - 4:30PM
Daily Lighthouse & Acadia Park Tours plus Mid-Coast 16 Lighthouse Tour August 19, 2017 Penobscot River & 10 Ligthhouse Tour October 14, 2017 Grand Slam US/Canada 18 Ligthhouse Tour July 28, 2018
BarHarborWhales.com | 207.288.2386 | info@barharborwhales.com 1 West Street, Bar Harbor ME 04609 | Operating May through October RECEIVE $10 OFF ANY TOUR WHEN ENTER OR MENTION “ACT10”
activitymaine.com 81
PHOTO: Just a 10-minute walk from the main building at Eagle Hill Institute is a scenic overlook offering views of Gouldsboro Bay. Photo by Johanna S. Billings
5 Can’t Miss Hikes
Downeast Text & Photos: JOHANNA S. BILLINGS
O
NE OF THE MOST REWARDING ASPECTS OF HIKING Downeast
for about a mile before cutting back
is the chance to get off the beaten path. Downeast hikes
through the woods to the trailhead. One
offer the same spectacular views as their more well-known
of its best features is a view of Moose
counterparts with the bonus being solitude. Here are five great places to explore hiking trails
Great Wass Island
miles) at Little Cape Point to make a nice
The Great Wass Island Preserve in Beals
difficult and hikers should use caution,
offers several hiking trails with some
especially in bad weather.
of the best views Downeast. Trails take
4.5-mile loop. The terrain is uneven and
Start by taking Little Cape Point trail
hikers both through the woods and
through the woods. You will reach the
along the rocky coast.
ocean shortly before arriving at the
The Little Cape Point trail (2.2 miles) intersects with the Mud Hole Trail (2.3
82 summer / fall | 2017
Peak Lighthouse, which is located across Eastern Bay on Mistake Island.
Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge The Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge in Steuben offers two trails — Birch Point and Hollingsworth. The 2.2-mile Birch Point Trail begins
point, where you pick up the Mud Hole
in an open blueberry field and takes
Trail. Mud Hole runs along the shore
hikers into the woods. The smooth and
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: A family makes its way along the Hollingsworth trail in Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuse in Steuben. Photo by Johanna S. Billings ; A group of seagulls sit on the rocky shore along the Hollingsworth Trail in Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuse in Ste; The trails at Eagle Hill Institute allow hikers direct access to the water. Photo by Johanna S. Billings
wide trail, which is easy for hikers of all ages, provides a number of scenic stops featuring benches and interpretive signs. One of the best views is Lobster Point, where Adirondack chairs in the woods look out over the bay and rocky shore. The 1.5-mile Hollingsworth Trail starts in an open field and takes hikers over a slightly more challenging terrain to a rocky granite beach at Chair Pond where they can enjoy a rest on Adirondack chairs. Explore the beach area, looking for shells, interesting rocks and even old lobster buoys that have washed upon shore. Pigeon Hill Bay and the lighthouse on Petit Manan Island are visible from the trail.
GETTING THERE
Great Wass Island Preserve, run by the Nature Conservancy, features 1,576 acres in Beals, Washington County. Described by its website as the “spectacular gem of Downeast Maine,” it is located off Route 187, accessible from Route 1 in Jonesboro. WWW.NATURE.ORG/OURINITIATIVES/REGIONS/ GREAT-WASS-ISLAND.XML?REDIRECT=HTTPS-301. Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge The refuge does not have its own website, but information on the trails is available at http://www.mainetrailfinder.com/trails/trail/petit-manan-wildlife-refuge-birch-point-trail and WWW.MAINETRAILFINDER.COM/TRAILS/TRAIL/PETIT-MANAN-WILDLIFE-REFUGE-HOLLINGSWORTH-TRAIL Eagle Hill Institute is a nonprofit organization aimed at promoting natural history and the arts. Information on the hiking trails is accessible on the eaglehill.us web site. Click on “hiking trails” on the home page. Quoddy Head State Park is located four miles off Route 189 in Lubec and features 541 acres of forest and bog. Additional information on trails, including maps and day-use fees, can be accessed at www.maine.gov/quoddyhead or call 207-733-0911. The lighthouse, located adjacent to the park, is run by the West Quoddy Head Lightkeepers Association. The visitor center is open daily from Memorial Day to Oct. 15. For more information, call 207-733-2180 or email INFO@WESTQUODDY.COM. Pigeon Hill Preserve is located off Pigeon Hill Road, just off Route 1 south of Milbridge. FMI visit downeastcoastalconservancy.org/
activitymaine.com 83
ACADIA & DOWNEAST
JONESBORO
BAR HARBOR
JONESPORT
William K. Milliken, Owner/Broker Julie A. Farris, Broker 261 Main St. • P.O. Box 289 • Jonesport, ME 04649 (207) 497-5725 • Fax: (207) 497-2529 www.jonesportrealty.com • jonesportrealty@aol.com
outdoor writers & photographers wanted Email subscribe@activitymaine.com with ideas or content!
HANCOCK More than a Quarter Century of Great Down East Family Dining Ruth & Wimpy’s has become a family dining icon in down east, Maine. Their restaurant’s reputation for serving great food makes it the number one dining choice for locals and brings summer visitors to the area back year after year to enjoy a great meal. Thanks for making a down east dining experience so special.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL LEONARD
LOBSTER, PASTA, SUBS, CHICKEN, GLUTEN FREE DISHES, 40 PLUS BEERS, TOP SHELF LIQUORS AVAILABLE AND LOTS MORE! INSIDE DINING OR ENJOY OUR DECK SEATING WWW.RUTHANDWIMPY@YAHOO.COM WWW.WILBURTHELOBSTER@YAHOO.COM 5 MILES EAST OF ELLSWORTH ON ROUTE 1, HANCOCK, MAINE
84 summer / fall | 2017
Eagle Hill Institute
ACADIA & DOWNEAST wooded vantage point with periodic overlooks where views can be appreciated
MACHIAS
without obstruction. Eagle Hill offers a network of
The other trails offer the
six intersecting trails, which
hiker the chance to explore
range in length and difficulty.
bogs and forests full of
Just a 10-minute walk from
mosses and lichens. A variety
the main building is a scenic
of birds, from seagulls to bald
overlook offering views of
eagles can also be seen along
Gouldsboro Bay, including
this and other trails. The
Schoodic Head and Cadillac
park also features spots for
Mountain in Acadia National
picnicking.
Park. Other trails take hikers
Pigeon Hill Preserve
through the woods, through blueberry barrens and along the coast of Dyer Bay. Few people seem to know about this hidden gem.
The Pigeon Hill Preserve
Hikers will enjoy solitude and
offers a 1.8 miles of trails.
the feeling of being alone on
Hikers can climb to the
a private preserve.
summit to see views of the
Eagle Hill also offers
Visit the coastal
Visit the coastal Machias Bay area
History Tours, Art Tours, Free O History Tours, Art Tours, Free Outdoor Movies, Visit us Boat Tours and more...
at: www
(207) 255-4 St.,
85 Main Street Ste #2 Machias 11 Main Find us on Facebook!
www.machiaschamber.org
207-255-4402
Come find the Magic at Machias B our history and coastline.W
coast and pick blueberries
camping and has an on-site
in season. Other trails take
restaurant that is open in the
hikers to the defunct silver
summer. The institute also
mine.
offers a variety of programs
Come find the magic at Machias Bay: the magic of our people, our history and coastline. We’re waiting for you.
At 317 feet above sea level,
year-round, including
Pigeon Hill is the highest
concerts, workshops,
point along the coast in
seminars and presentations.
Washington County. The top
Quoddy Head State Park
of Pigeon Hill was used in the original “Eastern Oblique Arc” survey when the US government surveyed the eastern coast of the United
Of course, the obvious
States. From the top looking
attraction here is the West
west Mount Desert Island can
Quoddy Head Light, the
be seen, to the south Petit
easternmost lighthouse in
Manan Point and lighthouse
the U.S. However, hikers can
can be viewed.
head off the beaten path
1-888-468-6866
In addition to being an avid
right from the lighthouse to
hiker, Johanna S. Billings is
a series of trails not usually
a nationally award-winning
explored by lighthouse
writer and photographer
visitors. Most notable is the
based in Steuben, Washington
Coastal Trail which takes
County. Her website is
visitors along the shore from
WWW.JSBILLINGSPHOTO.COM.
machias.edu
a high, rocky vantage point. At 4 miles round trip, this is the park’s longest trail. It shows off the cliffs from a
Maine’s Coastal University Rigorous Academics | Hands On Learning activitymaine.com 85
ACADIA & DOWNEAST MACHIAS
Toll-Free 1-866-636-2463
R E A L E S TAT E Machias Office – 25 Main Street, Machias, ME 04654 207-255-9099 • 866-636-2463
Are you a professional committed to excellence? Take the first step towards joining our amazing team today. Visit our website at www.dech.org to learn about all our openings. Our nurses, providers, and staff know the importance of delivering expert care and compassion while treating our patients like family. That is who we are and what we do.
Jason A. Smith Broker/Owner 207-263-9187 | Mike Jenkins Broker 207-745-1100 Patricia Morris Associate Broker 207-240-4906 Jenna Joeckel Associate Broker 207-263-7793 Jennifer Wendt Sales Agent 207-263-7447
Email: INFO@POINTEASTRE.COM Website: WWW.POINTSEASTRE.COM
RIVERSIDE INN
Call for reservations: (207) 255-4134 or Visit our Website: www.riversideinn-maine.com U.S. Route 1, PO Box 373, East Machias, ME 04630 The Riverside Inn is a charming Victorian Bed and Breakfast located on the pristine East Machias River offering exceptional accommodations with a view. Call for reservations: (207) 255-4134 or visit www.riversideinn-maine.com 86 summer / fall | 2017
Down East Community Hospital is a 25 bed acute care facility with three satellite Physician Practices Facilities that offer state-of-the art technology and specialty services almost unheard of in a small rural hospital. Our hospital serves the need of our immediate community in Machias and all of Washington County, bordered by New Brunswick to the northeast and the Bay of Fundy. To assist us in giving our hospital patients the care and privacy they deserve, the hospital is in the process of building a new Emergency Department. This stateof-the-art facility will be fully operational in November 2017, for which we are seeking full time Emergency Nurses in all shifts. Within our Outpatient Clinics we are currently seeking Primary Care Board Certified Physicians to join our Family Medicine and Pediatric Practices. We welcome Family Practice & Internal Medicine Physicians with experience to share as well as new graduates looking to start their career. These positions offer comprehensive benefits, aggressive incentive plans, and a flexible workweek. Nestled in a close knit coastal community in rural North East Maine, Down East Community Hospital’s providers and staff know the importance of delivering expert care and compassion while treating our patients like family. That is who we are and what we do. This philosophy runs throughout the organization.
3 NATION VACATION By JIM HARNEDY
T
he Quoddy Bay provides a shared marine opportunity to visit and enjoy the
In addition to the pristine
scenic coastal and island communities of Down East Maine, the home of
views provided from these
the Passamaquoddy Nation and the West Fundy Isles of New Brunswick. An
international tapestry of culture and history are found across the area, but where each town and village exhibit their own distinct flavor.
two lights they both have wonderful nature walks to enjoy. Quoddy Bay affords nature lovers the opportunity to
Adventures abound: nature
near Princeton; while the
been achieved through the
be entertained by eagles,
walks, whale watching cruises,
other is located at Pleasant
years by ferry connections.
porpoises and whales while
lighthouse and history tours,
Point on Passamaquoddy Bay a
Although the distance across
cruising these pristine waters
galleries with works by fine
short distance from Eastport.
the Narrows between Lubec
with their immense tides
and Campobello Island is but
aboard a local charter boat.
and thrilling tides will amaze
eastern most county in the
a stone’s throw, it was not
To arrange for an exciting
you as will the world class
United States. Machias which
until August 1962 that the
adventure on the bay
seafood you can savor in every
was settled in 1763, serves as
two were connected by the
contact in Eastport: Eastport
section of the Quoddy Bay.
the shire town for this region.
Roosevelt Memorial Bridge.
Windjammers (207) 853-2500,
The name Machias is derived
Ferry services continue
WWW.EASTPORTWINDJAMMERS.COM
of current Passamaquoddy
from the Native American
to link Lubec, Eastport,
tribal members lived on the
word, Mechises which means
Deer Island, Grand Manan,
be damped by a stormy day. A
Quoddy Loop more than
bad little falls or a bad run
Campobello Island and St.
number of wonderful galleries
twelve thousand years ago.
of water. Machias, Lubec,
Andrews. An example of
can be found throughout
Ancient art depicting their
Eastport and Calais are the
how the ferry service plays a
the area. Several unique
history and culture is found
four largest communities in
key role in transportation, if
museums including Raye’s Old
in three thousand year
the county.
one should choose to drive
Stone Mustard Mill Museum
from Campobello Island to
in Eastport and Ganong
local artists. Unspoiled beauty
It is believed that ancestors
old petroglyphs carved in
Washington County is the
Campobello Island, Deer
Fun activities do not need to
rocks at a shorefront site in
Island and Grand Manan
downtown Eastport, the road
Chocolatier Museum in St.
Machiasport. Pierre Dugua,
Island are the three Fundy
trip would take about one
Stephen, NB (just across from
Samuel Champlain and a
Isles of New Brunswick that
hour, by boat it would be 10
Calais, Maine) are working
group of seventy-seven French
lie closest to their American
minutes.
institutions that should not be
explorers, established the first
neighbors.
European settlement north
Captain William Owen who
A seafaring lifestyle is the strong thread that ties the
missed on a Quoddy Bay visit. The Summer of 2017 marks
of St Augustine, Florida on
came from an affluent Welsh
past to the present. Many
the 53rd anniversary of the
St. Croix Island, just of the
family received a royal grant
celebrations, festivals and
Roosevelt International Park
present day Calais, Maine in
in 1767 for what was then
occupations are dependent on
which lies just across the
1604. The few settler survivors
called Outer Island. Three
the seas around them.
Roosevelt International Bridge
of the horrible winter of
years later, he and a group of
1604-1605 were saved and
38 indentured servants that he
of light houses providing
Campobello Island, NB and
helped to relocate to Nova
had signed up arrived to settle
visibility for the mariners
should be a must stop on all
Scotia by members of the
Outer Island that he renamed
plying the local waters but
visitors lists of activities to
Passamaquoddy Nation. Today
Campobello Island. The
two lights are especially
do. Be sure and bring your
the Passamaquoddy Nation
Owens’ family continued to
well known as attractions
Passport, as both Canadian
is physically located on two
rule the island as their private
for visitors- West Quoddy
and U.S. Customs require
reservations in Down East,
fiefdom for the next 110 years.
Head Light in Lubec and East
them.
Maine. One reservation is located in Indian Township
Transportation between neighboring ports have
Quoddy Bay has a number
that links Lubec, Maine to
Quoddy Head Harbour Light Station on Campobello Island.
activitymaine.com 87
ACADIA & DOWNEAST MACHIAS For reservations: 207-255-4861 Walk out deck with river views
Keurig, microwave, & refrigerator
103 Main Street Machias, Maine 04654
Well behaved dogs welcome
Only AAA approved
www.machiasriverinn.com
lodging in Machias
Free Wi-Fi – Fridge, Microwave and in-room Coffee 32” HD Flat Screen TV’s with 200 channels of DirecTV
PINEO’S
BEHIND EVERY PROJECT IS A
fishing & fishing & boating hunting supplies licenses Serving Downeast Maine for more than a half century
292 Main St., U.S. Route 1, Machias, Maine 04654 Tel. (207) 255-8387 (866) 375-0177 (toll free) or (207) 255-3333 231 Dublin St. (Rt. 1) Machias, Maine www.bluebirdmotelmaine.com
WHITING
Activity Maine’s, Sr. Editor, Jim Harnedy’s new book A Brookline Boyhood in the 1930s and 40s will be available this October. Jim’s latest book takes readers on a journey to the Boston area during an era that evokes both nostalgic memories of Saturday night suppers and the challenges families faced in the aftermath of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Through masterful storytelling and a vast assortment of vintage photos, Jim captures the culture, traditions, and mood of the country during some of our nation’s most tumultuous times. Readers of all ages will enjoy the stories Jim shares, such as the need to perform emergency surgery on a Maine Coon kitten during a 1940 vacation on an island in the northern Maine wilderness.
Jim with Duncan, his West Highland White Terrier
Jim’s book revisits the days when families harvested fresh vegetables from their victory gardens and gathered around the radio to listen to their favorite programs. He also describes the Boston sports scene and the excitement of attending his first major league baseball game. Other stories recount the family’s narrow escape from danger during the hurricane of 1938 on a trip to Keane, NH and the day he and his mother learned of the attack on Pearl Harbor. A Brookline Boyhood in the 1930s and 40s invites readers to travel back to the days before TV and the internet and recall the simple joy of life and the strength and resilience of New England families in the face of great challenges. To reserve your signed copy in October: Send a check payable to Jim Harnedy for $ 23.00 to: Jim Harnedy, 2 Pettegrow Point Road, Machiasport, ME 04655 207-255-0170 | jharnedy@maineline.net
88 summer / fall | 2017
PERRY
Raye, this family run business remains committed to continuing the traditions
EASTPORT where the past is alive and well
I
of previous generations, while focusing PHOTO TK on expanding its national presence in the marketplace.
Campobello Island In January 22, 1964, The Roosevelt International Park was established by agreement signed by Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson and U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. On August 20, 1964 the first ladies of the two countries opened the only international park in the world as a unique memorial to the close relationship between
N 1818, WHEN AMERICA WAS A YOUNG NATION LED BY JAMES MONROE, Portland native Samuel B. Wadsworth, the son of Revolutionary War General Peleg Wadsworth, saw an opportunity to
launch a ship chandler business in the busy port city of Eastport.
the people of the two nations. Both governments wished to honor the role that Franklin Delano Roosevelt had played in their mutual histories, as well as the special relationship that FDR had with his beloved island. While the summer home of the late
fish and other sea life. This season, our
president remains the centerpiece of the
shipbuilding industries were booming.
daily cruises will include a 21⁄2 – 3-hour
park, beautiful gardens and 2,800 acres
His entrepreneurship was exactly
whale watching and lobster trap pulling
of natural beauty complete with scenic
perfect for the time and he knew that he
excursion. Ask about our 2-hour sunset
vistas, hiking and driving trails provide
could meet all his customers’ needs by
sails and scheduling a deep sea fishing
additional visitor experiences.
supplying hardware, harpoons, deadeyes,
trip. For additional Information; Call
canvas, alcohol, tobacco and everything
(207) 853-2500 or see us on line at: www.
Eleanor. Visitors can make reservations
else required for rigging, operating, and
eastportwindjammers.com.
at FDR.NET for this charming experience.
At the time, both the whaling and
provisioning a ship. While the original business site suffered through several fires and storms, the Groundhog Day
Eastport’s Old Stone Mustard Mill Museum
Another popular event is Tea with
Guests to the Reserve Tea will receive a book of cookie recipes compiled by Eleanor’s granddaughter. The visitor
Gale of 1976 completely devastated the
Raye’s Mustard Mill is a working museum
center offers interpretive displays; a short
facility.
located on Washington Street in Eastport
introductory video and a two exhibits.
Capt. Butch Harris Extends A Special Invitation To Join Him For A Fun Packed Experience On The Eastport Windjammers Fleet New 47’ Lobster Boat.
(America’s eastern-most city). The quaint
The Roosevelt cottage opens on the
and authentic mill is North America’s
Saturday following Victoria Day (Sat.
only working traditional stone ground
prior to Memorial Day) through the
mustard mill. At the turn of the 20th
Saturday after Canadian Thanksgiving
century, J. Wesley Raye started the mill to
(U.S. Columbus Day) 10am-6pm (ADT).
produce mustard for Maine’s burgeoning
The park’s visitor center remains open
Sailing out of historic Eastport, Maine
sardine industry. Later in the century,
through October 31st to accommodate
our guests will have an opportunity
when the sardine industry declined,
fall visitors
to see spectacular wildlife: eagles,
Raye’s Mustard Mill became known for
porpoises, seals, minke, and finback
its award-winning gourmet and specialty
is in an exquisitely restored historic
whales. On-board educational
mustards.
family lodge, serving meals throughout
experiences will include lobster trap
This downeast institution has remained
the season. Open for lunch and diner. For
pulling demonstrations, a touch tank
in the Raye family for over a century.
daily specials check
to view crabs, lobsters, sea urchins, star
Currently owned by Kevin and Karen
FDR.NET
The Fireside Restaurant, opened in 2014,
activitymaine.com 89
ACADIA & DOWNEAST LUBEC Open 7 days 5am to 8pm
Gulf Gas
EASTPORT
20 I 7 Eastpottt restioals Bay Day July 29
Eastport Salmon & Seafood Festival September 2-3 Eastport Pirates Festival September 8-10
141 Water St.
Monica’s Chocolates is must stop when in Lubec Monica’s award winning chocolates are made from the very highest quality ingredients, without the addition of any artificial flavoring or preservatives. They are made of pure love and are something to die for. Her shop also features beautiful Peruvian alpaca sweaters and scarves, as well as jewelry from India and Peru.
portocalleastport.com • like us on Facebook
Yankee Magazine’s Choice for Best Lobster Roll in New England
90 summer / fall | 2017
ROOSEVELT INTERNATIONAL PARK In January 22, 1964, The Roosevelt International Park was established by agreement signed by Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson and U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. On August 20, 1964 the first ladies of the two countries opened the only international park in the world as a unique memorial to the close relationship between the people of the two nations. Both governments wished to honor the role that Franklin Delano Roosevelt had played in their mutual histories, as well as the special relationship that FDR had with his beloved island. While the summer home of the late president remains the centerpiece of the park, beautiful gardens and 2,800 acres of natural beauty complete with scenic vistas, hiking and driving trails provide additional visitor experiences.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL LEONARD
CAMBOBELLO ISLAND, NB
Another popular event is Tea with Eleanor. Visitors can make reservations on the web (HTTP:FDR.NET) for this charming experience. Guests to the Reserve Tea will receive a book of cookie recipes compiled by Eleanor’s granddaughter. The visitor center offers interpretive displays; a short introductory video and a two exhibits. The Roosevelt cottage opens on the Saturday following Victoria Day (Sat. prior to Memorial Day) through the Saturday after Canadian Thanksgiving (U.S. Columbus Day) 10am -6pm (ADT). The park’s visitor center remains open through October 31st to accommodate fall visitors The Fireside Restaurant, opened in 2014, is in an exquisitely
Discover the
BELOVED ISLAND the Roosevelts so loved • 34-room Cottage • 2,800-acre nature park: drive, bike, hike, picnic • The Fireside restaurant • Tea with Eleanor daily • 9-5 EDT , May 27-Oct 14 • FREE admission
restored historic family lodge, serving meals throughout the season. Open for lunch and diner. For daily specials check FDR.NET. ABOVE FDR returns to Campobello Island as U.S. President in June 1933.
aboard the Amberjack II.
Lunch and dinner daily overlooking scenic Friar’s Bay! 506-752-6055
fdr.net/fireside
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
New Brunswick, Canada, across the bridge from Lubec, Maine
877-851-6663
fdr.net
activitymaine.com 91
92 summer / fall | 2017
COME TRY OUR COME TRY OUR FAMOUS FAMOUS HOMEMADE HOMEMADE FUDGE FUDGE
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CORN SHOP TRADING CO. Open year round - Something for Ever�one 179 Main St�eet • Bridg�on • 207-647-9090
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ThinkingOutside
Come get your outdoors on.
Want a college where you can combine academics with the active outdoor lifestyle? Situated at the gateway to world-class skiing and snowboarding in western Maine, UMF is smack in the middle of some of the best hiking, mt. biking, camping, rafting, canoeing and kayaking in the northeast. We’ve got the swim-able, paddle-able, fly-fishing-able Sandy River running right beside our athletics fields and miles of trail running and bike trails just off campus. To take full advantage of our perfect location, our Mainely Outdoors adventure program offers students a range of exciting opportunities: trips, equipment and gear sign-out/rentals, clinics and lessons, certification and training opportunities and much more.
Maine’s nationally-recognized public liberal arts college
farmington.edu