Must do
QUIET WATERS: DISCOVER THE PATH LESS PADDLED P. 8
Find yo ur fun summer/fall 2021
Connecting you to the Best Maine Adventures since 1984
LEAVE NO TRACE Preserving Maine for All to Enjoy P. 32
/// EXPLORE MAINE'S WILDERNESS
What Maine Land Trusts Have to Offer P. 22
/// MAJESTIC MT. KINEO P. 54
/// BIRDING 101
Field Tips That Have Incidental Health Benefits P. 66
! e d i Ins
P. 37
Brews from your backyard! Juicy, hazy, hoppy, light, crushable – whatever your palate, we’ve got a brew just for you. Check out our huge selection of local beers, wines and spirits. Cheers!
e v o l we
l a loc
Quiet Waters p. 8
SUMMER/FALL 2021
MAINE BREW & BEV GUIDE
4 KITTERY TO THE KENNEBUNKS 8 QUIET WATERS: DISCOVER THE PATH LESS PADDLED
by Saisie Moore
10 THE SOUTH COAST 13 FOUR TIPS TO TEACH YOUR CHILD HOW TO RIDE A BIKE
16
by Greg Glynn
14 GREATER PORTLAND 16 PUTTS & PINTS
by Garrick Hoffman
42 HOW A BEER IS BORN by Catie Joyce-Bulay
44 NEW BREWER SPOTLIGHT: BATH ALE WORKS
by Kay Stephens
45 NEW BREWERY ROUND-UP 46 TASTING ROOM DIRECTORY 51 HOMEBREWERS AND THE YEAR OF "THE LONELY" BEER
22 EXPLORE MAINE'S WILDERNESS
24 WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
by John Breerwood
by John Breerwood
by Matthew H. Brown
52 LIVING LOOSE – MAINE'S GOURMET TEAS
29 BETHEL
22
32 LEAVE NO TRACE
by Carey Kish
34 RANGELEY 54 MAJESTIC MT. KINEO by Johanna S. Billings
56 HIGHLANDS 60 MIDCOAST 63 DOWNEAST 66 BIRDING 101
32 2 summer / fall | 2021
by Joyce Love
42
3 PREMIUM SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGES + 3 TIRE ROTATIONS FOR $170 That works out to:
56.66 EACH
$
*See dealer for details
COMPLIMENTARY AIR CONDITIONING INSPECTION
10% OFF
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE *See dealer for details
209 Main Street, South Paris, ME 04281 | (207) 743-6341 | www.besseymotor.com Service Hours Monday–Friday 7:30AM–5PM
r e m m u S k c The Co meba
TIME TO COME TOGETHER FOR
This summer, with Maine released from the "lock-
down summer" of 2020, more people are raring to get
back to “The way life USED to be” — out in the wilderness and back to the tasting rooms, restaurants, and theme of this hybrid Activities Guide and Maine Brew & Bev Guide issue is to Unify. Let's unify on trail stewardship this summer — check out Carey Kish's piece on the 7 Leave No Trace principles. Let's unify on taking care of our personal mental and physical health, while being conscious of others' as well. As they say, you never know what someone is going through or what internal battles or illnesses they are dealing with. Let’s be mindful on the road to being heedful of the trails and backcountry, Let's unify on inclusivity and diversity. Join the movement to find more ways to be inclusive in your personal and business interactions. If you see social injustices that are hurting people, say something in a meaningful way. Be that calm voice that is heard. We're still all about keeping our spirits up as we get through the re-opening of our businesses and our communities and keeping our hearts and our minds open as well. If we come together to look for similarities in what we care about, who knows, we just might solve some differences along the way. — Stanley J. Rintz, publisher
REGIONS
THE COUNTY
34 RANGELEY
36 FARMINGTON 10 THE SOUTH COAST & WILTON 14 PORTLAND
56 THE HIGHLANDS
24 WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
60 MIDCOAST
29 BETHEL
63 DOWNEAST
THE HIGHLANDS
DOWN EAST
FARMINGTON & WILTON MIDCOAST WESTERN LAKES & MOUNTAINS
4 summer / fall | 2021
PRODUCTION DESIGNER Kristina Roderick
SOCIAL MEDIA MA.NAGER Kristina Roderick MANAGING EDITOR Kay Stephens WEB & DIGITAL DESIGN Robin Bean PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Leonard ADVERTISING SALES Stanley J. Rintz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Johanna S. Billings John Breerwood Matthew H. Brown Greg Glynn Garrick Hoffman Catie Joyce-Bulay Carey Kish Joyce Love Saisie Moore Bobbie Randolph Kay Stephens OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Kristina Roderick
RANGELEY
BETHEL
ON THE COVER: Coastal Kayaking photo by Saisie Moore
PUBLISHER Stanley J. Rintz III
GRAPHIC ARTIST Robin Bean Larissa Davis Kristina Roderick
local businesses — and we're right alongside them. The
4 KITTERY TO THE KENNEBUNKS
9 Susan’s Way, Windham, ME 04062 www.activitymaine.com stan@activitymaine.com (207) 671-7230
KITTERY TO THE KENNEBUNKS
MEMBER Maine Brewers’ Guild Maine Tourism Association Convention & Visitors Bureau Chambers of Commerce FOLLOW ACTIVITY MAINE
W
ELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL
PHOTO BY MELISSA WESTON
SOUTHERN MAINE!
KITTERY TO THE KENNEBUNKS
Summer Fun
Coastal Kittery is home to
numerous factory outlet shopping malls, Kittery Naval Shipyard, and an extensive Maine Tourism Information Center. Visit local Chamber of Commerce offices for more information about various towns and events throughout the region.
SUMMER FUN ON MAINE’S SOUTH COAST
By BOBBIE RANDOLPH
M
ILES OF WHITE SAND, SALTWATER TAFFY,
The 220 grassy sites at Sea-Vu Campground (SEA-VUCAMPGROUND.COM)
long estuaries to explore by kayak, and one
include shaded tent sites as well as RV sites with full hook-ups,
of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses – what’s
TV and WiFi. Everyone loves the setting overlooking the ocean
not to love about that stretch of shore between
and families appreciate the large pool and mini-golf course, as well as the trolley stop at the front gate for car-free beach access.
Kennebunkport and York?
Experience a different coastal environment at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge on Route 9. A mile-long interpretive trail
The quartet of beach towns —Kennebunkport, Wells, Ogunquit,
winds through a coastal forest and along tidal marshes where
and York — couldn’t offer more variety if they tried. Wells and
sightings of heron, egrets, and sea birds are common
York are all about families kicking back. Kennebunkport and
(WWW.FWS.GOV/REFUGE/RACHEL_CARSON). Just across a tidal creek, the Wells
Ogunquit are known as more high-end enclaves, although their
Reserve at Laudholm has seven miles of walking trails (WWW.
beautiful beaches are open to all and each offers a wide range
WELLSRESERVE.ORG).
of lodging and dining choices. For a traditional shore dinner go to Mabel’s Lobster Claw
The Maine Diner on Route 1 in Wells is no secret. For more than 30 years it’s been serving fried clams, chowder, blueberry pie, and
(MABELSLOBSTER.COM). If you’re lucky, the signature Lobster Milanese
all the other Maine coast favorites (WWW.MAINEDINER.COM). Get more
– grilled shrimp and lobster – will be on the day’s menu. On
suggestions of things to do at the Wells Chamber of Commerce
Route 1, taste craft beers at Sebago Brewing (SEBAGOBREWING.COM).
visitor center or check (WWW.WELLSCHAMBER.COM).
Get a different view of Cape Porpoise or the Kennebunk River on
Not all of the fun is within the sight of the sea. Head inland
a guided tour with Coastal Maine Kayak and Bike (COASTALMAINEKAYAK.COM)
to Sanford to find Mountain View Golf Range, a family-friendly
in Kennebunkport or join them for paddle board lessons or tours.
center with mini-golf, a driving range and batting cages
They welcome all skill levels and offer bike and scooter rentals,
(MOUNTAINVIEWGOLFRANGE.COM).
too.
York is a family favorite, not only for its beaches (descriptively named Long and Short Sands), but for Maine’s most iconic
activitymaine.com 5
KITTERY TO KENNEBUNKS lighthouse, Nubble Light at Cape Neddick. Add The Golden Rod, WWW.THEGOLDENROD.COM, famed
over a century for its saltwater taffy and
New England’s only zoo/amusement park at York’s Wild Kingdom, WWW.YORKSWILDKINGDOM.COM, and
you have a winner.
You can’t camp closer to the beach than at Libby’s Oceanside
outdoor writers & photographers wanted Email content@activitymaine.com with ideas or content!
Camping, WWW.LIBBYSOCEANCAMPING.COM in York Harbor, overlooking the mile-and-a-half Long Sands. Owned by the third generation of the family that founded it in 1923, Libby’s offers full hook-ups, TV, and free WiFi, but best of all are the ocean views from nearly every site and direct beach access. 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.” Maine Diner has been serving delicious food for more than 30 years. In addition to breakfast served all day, the extensive menu selections include daily specials made fresh to order. Enjoy chowders and stews, salads, seafood and steaks, comfort foods, burgers and sandwiches, homemade desserts and much more. Be sure to visit the Remember the Maine Gift Shop located next to the Maine Diner. In 1997, the gift shop opened its doors to offer customers an assortment of gifts from America's favorite 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 e Way” North or South • Route 1 North, Wells, ME
We Ship All Over the U.S!
Open 6 Days (Closed Wednesday) • 207-646-4441 • MaineDiner.com 6 summer / fall | 2021
Quiet Waters Discover the path less paddled
Story by: SAISIE MOORE Photos courtesy of Portland Paddle
There’s nothing quite like Maine summer days on the water and nights under canvas. Combine the two and you've got the recipe for an unforgettable trip. More secluded than traditional campgrounds – with the opportunity to bring a little more gear in your boat than you could backpack – paddle camping is an accessible adventure for families and beginners alike. With a little planning and knowledge, canoe and kayak camping trips grant paddlers access to some of the most secluded and idyllic camping spots in Maine.
Portland The many islands of Casco Bay make a beautiful backdrop to Portland’s city skyline. However, there’s much more here than a view – a paddling trip to one of the bay’s islands affords a whole new perspective. “Experiencing the sights and smells of the ocean 8 summer / fall | 2021
from the vantage point of a kayak is exciting enough,” said owner and co-founder Zack Anchors. “But here in Casco Bay we also have fascinating islands, forts, and lighthouses to explore” Portland Paddle orchestrates ocean adventures from the East End Beach each summer. While the busy waters of Casco Bay may look intimidating, guides are trained to lead paddlers of every ability. “Our team of guides take things to the next level. They are skilled at making sure each person has the support they need to have fun paddling on the ocean.” Day trips are available morning through sunset, but the really memorable experiences are made over multi-day adventures. “We offer a three-day trip called the Casco Bay Traverse that gives a great introduction to kayak camping on the Maine coast,” said Anchors. “There are so many islands to explore that each trip is different. That said, Jewell Island
and Whaleboat Island are two of our favorite islands for camping – with gorgeous scenery, lots of wildlife and amazing oceanside campsites.” Groups generally paddle 10 miles or less each day, though it varies a lot based on current and wind conditions. Portland Paddle guides also cook nourishing meals, so you can relax and explore the islands after coming ashore. The experience of moving with wind and water between the islands creates a profound connection that you just can’t find from a ferry or powerboat. Anchors recalled a foggy morning paddle on the bay that was etched into his memory: “There was deep silence and glassy calm waters. I heard the puffing sound of porpoises breathing through their blowholes. We spotted the triangular fins of the pod arching above the waterline nearby, just as an osprey dove and grabbed a fish from the water.”
The beauty of remote camping.
Camping after a day of paddling.
Heading out.
Midcoast Ready for your own adventure? Gather your gear and head to Richmond, where you can launch your boat into the Kennebec River. From there, you can paddle downstream toward Merrymeeting Bay, where the Kennebec and five other rivers flow into the bay (although this area doesn’t front directly onto the ocean). This confluence of fresh and salt waters is a rare and abundant source of life, particularly for waterfowl and fish such as Atlantic salmon, shad, and sturgeon that travel upstream to spawn. The unusual geology also means the river is tidal and subject to strong currents. It’s essential you check tide charts before starting out, and try to stay along the edge of the bay’s quieter western shore. Once you’ve had your fill of adventure, return to the calm shores of Swan Island, which fills the mouth of the Kennebec. This four-mile-long island houses 10 Adirondack shelters
Plotting the day's course.
overlooking a large field and a dock, which can be booked in advance for a small fee. Light a campfire or wander the seven miles of trails that wind through the island and explore the island’s historical structures, which once housed a community of around 100 farmers in the 1800s.
Rangeley Lakes Region If you’re ready to get out there and explore, the Rangeley Lake region is a must-see destination for canoe camping. Explore any of the six major lakes by day, and when you’re ready to set up camp, find your way to South Arm at the very tip of Little Richardson Lake. The main site is situated on the sandy shoreline with 38 paddle-in sites scattered as far as 15 miles up into Greater Richardson, through a section called The Narrows. The scale of the lake should not be underestimated, especially if you’re planning to paddle way out. Ensure you pack plenty of water and warm
clothes. Hug the shoreline as you paddle, where the winds that can rush down the lake won’t exert such a great force on your boat – and always wear a PFD. Pick a spot within sight of the beach and main campground or cover some distance to find total seclusion in stunning surrounds of spruce, cedar and white pine beside crystal clear waters. Spirit Island campsite in the very middle of Little Richardson Lake is unbeatable for views and a deserted island feel. With a stretch of water behind you and the sun low overhead, it’s a little easier to leave worries on the mainland while you soak up the peace and serenity that an offshore camping adventure can provide. SAISIE MOORE is a freelance writer and gardener living on Munjoy Hill in Portland.
activitymaine.com 9
Visit Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Scarborough for Summer Fun
M
By BOBBIE RANDOLPH
AINE’S LONGEST STRETCH OF SAND BEACH
fishing, and waterskiing.
paddle boards, bicycles, and
MAKES OLD ORCHARD BEACH a magnet for
Quiet coves and tidal
even sail boats.
summer vacationers. And what a beach it is —
estuaries invite canoes and
The flat coastline is great
kayaks. Scarborough Marsh
to explore on two wheels.
has miles of meandering
Bike along the Easter Trail, a
channels to explore on foot,
greenway of backroads and
dune grass, the beach slopes gently into the surf and
in a kayak, or a canoe and is
trails. With beach parking
is wide enough, so even at high tide there’s space for
home to countless birds.
often at a premium, a bike
seven miles of soft white sand which is meticulously cleaned each night by volunteers. Backed by a band of
everyone to find a patch of sand.
Black Point Surf Shop
is a handy way to get to the
(BLACKPOINTSURFSHOP.COM) in
beach from your campground
Scarborough is a full-service
or motel. Make use of the
That’s just Old Orchard.
Golf (SCHOONERMINIGOLF.NET), there’s
surf shop with new and
convenient bike racks on
Smaller beaches spread north
a big replica schooner and
used surfboards and all the
the shuttle buses that go to
along Scarborough’s coast,
lighthouse. Every Thursday
related equipment. Take a
the beach as well as at the
some – such as the beautiful
evening there are free
surf lesson, which includes a
Amtrak station and inland
Western and Ferry beaches
fireworks at the beach.
wetsuit and surfboard.
lodgings.
— protected by the long peninsula of Prouts Neck. A few miles away in Saco, at the 18-hole Schooner Miniature
10 summer / fall | 2021
With all this coastline,
Fun And Sun Rentals
Within walking distance
you can expect a variety
(FUNANDSUNRENTALS.COM) will
from the Pier and amusement
of water sports — surfing,
deliver free throughout the
park is the Beachfront
paddleboarding, sailing,
area beach gear, kayaks,
Condotel (THEBEACHFRONT.COM) with
PHOTO AMANDA GAGNON
OLD ORCHARD
PHOTO COURTESY OF PALACE PLAYLAND
SOUTH COASTAL
Schooner Miniature Golf & Ice Cream This picturesque miniature golf course is located in sunny Saco Maine featuring a 75-foot schooner as the 11th hole. They also have a great selection of Shain’s of Maine ice cream to enjoy on their spacious deck where you can relax after 18 holes of fun! Looking forward to seeing you at Schooner.
Maine Veterinary Medical Center Specialty & Emergency Pet Hospital in Scarborough, ME
We treat all pet emergencies 24/7 including weekends and holidays.
minutes from the Pier are the
campsite before reserving.
neighboring budget-friendly
Family owned Wassamki Springs
Sea View Inn (SEAVIEWGETAWAY.COM)
Campground (WASSAMKISPRINGS.
motel and Waves Oceanfront
COM)
Resort (WAVESOCEANFRONT.COM),
closest campground to
both with standard rooms
Portland and Casco Bay—
and kitchenettes. Two miles
offers vacation and seasonal
north on Grand Beach in
camping, full hookups,
Scarborough, The Holiday House
cable, and WiFi. Enjoy live
(HOLIDAYHOUSEINN.COM) is a bed &
entertainment, planned
breakfast with ocean-view
activities, swimming, and
rooms (some with private
recreational activities offered
decks) and motel rooms that
at the campground.
include the use of a common
Seacoast RV Resort
kitchen. RV owners and campers
(SEACOASTRESORT.COM) in Saco, a Scarborough beaches, is a residential community for
the trolley route, the family-
110 park model RVs only,
operated Old Orchard Beach
with a pool, hot tubs and a
Campground (GOCAMPING.COM) offers
clubhouse.
full hookup deluxe RV sites,
If all the saltwater makes you hungry for seafood, you'll find the freshest fried clams, lobster rolls, chowders, and a raw bar at Ken's Place (207-883-6611) on Pine Point Road in Scarborough.
as an area for tents. Catering to families and couples, and half a mile from the Pier, Hid'n Pines Family Campground (MAINEFAMILYCAMPING. COM)
also has basic tent sites
Emergency & Specialty Hospital Scarborough, Maine
IC A
L CE N
T
207.885.1290 mvmc.vet
7 miles of beautiful Maine beach is just steps away Walking distance to the famous Pier & downtown Variety of rooms including studios & 2 bedroom suites
Ocean front rooms directly on the beach
mile from Old Orchard and
mile from the beach and on
recreational facilities, as well
D
in Scarborough—Maine’s
will find plenty of options. A
cable TV, and WiFi, a pool and
MVMC MVMC ER
You can see photos of each
Y AR
and large full-service lots.
bedroom suites. Less than 10
ME
standard, deluxe, and two-
MA I
ETERI EV N N
1 Walnut St., Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064 207-934-7434 • thebeachfront.com activitymaine.com 11
SOUTH COASTAL SACO
SCARBOROUGH
Ken’s Place
Celebrating Over 20 Years!
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.
Adventures Local Race Events Maine Craft Beer
ACTIVITYMAINE.COM/SUBSCRIBE
Closest Campground to Portland
Wassamki Springs Family Owned & Operated Since 1968
Near Ocean Beaches, Portland’s Old Port, Casco Bay, Shopping and Attractions
Free Live Entertainment & Scheduled Activities on Weekends for All Ages WiFi • Cable TV • Store • Rec Center Big Rigs Welcome • Family Tenting Swimming • Fishing Horseshoes • Pickleball Sports Fields & Playgrounds E, W, S 30 & 50 Amp • Dog Run Sunny, Shady & Waterfront Sites Seasonal Sites Open May 1 – October 15
56 Saco Street Scarborough, ME Scarbo (207) 839-4276
reservations@wassamkisprings.com
wassamkisprings.com 12 summer / fall | 2021
FOUR TIPS to Teach Your Child How to
Ride a Bike Story & photos by: GREG GLYNN
Learning to ride a bike can be nerve-wracking for a child just first starting out and for the parent who is running alongside, trying to keep up the encouragement. The good news is with a little practice and the proper mindset, it can also be fun and rewarding. Last year, I taught my daughter Kelsey how to ride her bike. In less than two months, she went from teetering on her pink Shopkins bike with training wheels to riding in the virtual Trek Across Maine. When she turned nine, she quickly grew out of her first bike and upgraded to her current Pacific Cycle Bubble Pop 20" Kids' Bike. If you are looking to get your child on a bike this year, here are four helpful tips. 1. Build confidence first. Purchase a bike helmet that fits and makes your child feel good. Having a "cool" helmet builds his or her pride and selfassurance. Based on your child’s age and ability, start with a tricycle or training wheels. Even if this seems too easy, it will set your child up for success to take the next step. Let your child tell you when he or she is ready to take off the training wheels.
Be sure to start in a large, flat parking lot or dead-end circle. Practicing in secluded areas will allow you both to focus and you won't have to worry about traffic or other distractions. 2. Set the expectations. After the training wheels come off, the first fall is inevitable and part of the process. It is important to tell your child a couple of falls at first are going to be expected and that in itself, is not failure. Setting this expectation lets your child know it is OK to fall. Make sure your child is wearing wear elbow or knee pads to start. With every fall off the bike, your child develops trust in you as a teacher knowing these expectations. 3. Teach the rules of the road. As a parent, educating your son or daughter about the rules of the road before going out riding with friends is a critical part of keeping them all safe. As your rider learns how to coordinate the handlebars with the pedals, it is important to teach your child the rules of the road. This includes everything from following traffic signs to using hand signals. A great way to practice is in settled
Greg and his daughter Kels
ey
neighborhoods, then in more populated areas, and eventually on busier streets and intersections. Every ride is an opportunity to learn increasingly complicated road rules. 4. Have fun! Cycling is a fun and safe activity for all ages. I have really enjoyed getting back on a bike again. Before starting the Trek Across Maine with Kelsey, I can’t remember the last time I rode my bike. The Trek Across Maine has motivated us to get outside, exercise more, and spend time together. I cherish each ride with her. Kids grow up so fast. During our rides we have enjoyed time with friends, seeing animals, and talking about random topics, including why bikes aren’t allowed at drive-thru restaurants, and of course our plans for the summer. I know I will look back years from now and not only remember our rides, but most importantly the trust and bond we built riding together. activitymaine.com 13
PHOTO Activity Maine
when in
PORTLAND Be sure to check out these local businesses for adventurous activities and delicious food!
EXPLORE the Islands of Casco Bay
SEA KAYAKING & PADDLEBOARDING AT EAST END BEACH
| GUIDED TRIPS | LESSONS PortlandPaddle.net • 207-370-9730
RENTALS
PHOTO COURTESY OF PORTLAND PADDLE
Portland Paddle offers guided sea kayaking trips and paddleboard rentals at the East End Beach on the Portland waterfront. It’s amazing how rugged and wild the coastline gets just a short paddle away from the bustling Portland harbor The great variety of islands in Casco Bay offer endless possibilities for exploration. Look out for seals, lighthouses, wave-battered cliffs, seabirds, hidden beaches, wooden schooners and 19th-century granite forts. Portland Paddle’s guided trips and lessons are led by licensed Maine Guides who are passionate about sharing their love of sea kayaking and their knowledge of the history and ecology of the Maine coast. Multi-day trips, advanced paddling lessons, and rentals are also offered at Portland Paddle. 14 summer / fall | 2021
GREATER PORTLAND
MAXIMIZE YOUR SIGHTSEEING IN PORTLAND AND SAVE MONEY WITH ONE OF PORTLAND DISCOVERY’S EXCEPTIONAL COMBO TOURS Simply choose a cruise and combine it with a trolley tour for a fabulous land and sea adventure! Take the tours in any way that fits your schedule, just be sure that when you choose your times that the boat tour and city tour times don't overlap. For example, many people will choose the 10:00 a.m. Portland City and Lighthouse Tour then enjoy lunch and shopping in the Old Port before boarding an afternoon cruise. Book now at PORTLANDDISCOVERY.COM or call us at 207-774-0808 and see the best of Portland with us! THE GREAT LOST BEAR has become a Portland institution since opening in 1979. The Bear is located about two miles from Portland’s touristy Old Port but well worth the journey across town to the mysterious Woodfords Corner. The Great Lost Bear features an enormous, eclectic family-friendly menu with something for everyone, all served in an entertaining atmosphere. They have added more taps as new breweries open throughout the Northeast. Now, with the craft beer revolution in full throttle, GLB offers an amazing selection of hard-to-find beers with most of them brewed in Maine. Come taste some of the freshest local beer around at the GLB!
activitymaine.com 15
Putts&Pints Story & Photos by: GARRICK HOFFMAN
Enjoy the Maine Outdoors with a Round of Disc Golf, Craft Beer, and Killer Food It’s late in the afternoon and the shade from the trees is keeping me and my friends cool as the music from my Bluetooth speaker plays some rockreggae music. Travis takes a sip of his beer before he steps onto the concrete slab, the rounded plastic disc in hand, and prepares to shoot. Angie and I watch in anticipation as Travis, using the backhand technique, launches his disc. As 16 summer / fall | 2021
if powered by some kind of Harry Potter-like wizardry, the disc narrowly zooms past the army of trees and gets closer and closer to the basket with the accuracy of a laser. We hold our breath, watching, as the disc strikes the chains dangling from the top of the basket. Suddenly, the clanging of metal reverberates through the woods.
But instead of landing in the basket, the disc lands on the ground just beyond it. “Damn!” Travis grunts as Angie and I applaud his effort; after all, he got far closer than either of us could manage from that distance. He takes another sip of beer and tells me it’s my turn. This is all part of the fun of one of Maine’s most popular activities, which
Angie Dubois shoots her disc toward the basket at Bittersweet Ridge Disc Golf course
can be enjoyed outdoors year-round, with friends, or by yourself. Disc golf — or “discing,” as it’s commonly called — is a flying disc sport in which players throw a Frisbee at a target using rules similar to golf. While still challenging, it’s less technical than golf and has a lower barrier to entry than its traditional counterpart. It’s also far less expensive than golf (less than 10 dollars to play) and can be enjoyed by any skill level. In the last few years, disc golf courses have sprouted up all around the state like dandelions in the spring. “The sport is exploding,” said Bill MacKinnon, owner of Bittersweet Disc Golf in North Yarmouth. Just a few years ago, there were approximately 30 courses in Maine. Today, there are more than 70 from Saco to Fort Kent. In fact, in 2018, UDisc, the app for disc golfers, ranked Lewiston-Auburn number one in the country for disc golf course quality and number six for quantity. Sabbatus Disc Golf Course even hosted the 2016 U.S. Women’s Disc Golf tournament, attracting the top skill in the sport. One of the reasons for its popularity is attributed to its accessibility. “It is an activity that anyone can be good at,” said MacKinnon. “The typical person becomes hooked almost immediately.”
A pint of Trestl e IPA and a flig are served on ht of four differ Brickyard Ho ent beers llow's enclose d outdoor spac e.
There’s an inexplicable ecstasy summer day after a round of discing, as you launch your disc, watching it their hazy and hop-forward Trestle get closer and closer to the basket will quench your thirst. A New and wondering if it’ll make it in. You’ll England-style IPA, Trestle, has big experience the elation of reward when citrus and pine notes, a medium body, you putt from 10 yards away, believing and a pleasant silkiness that lends a your chances of actually making it into refreshing quality to this beer. the basket are as good as finding cheap With consumer prices going up on lumber in 2021, only to instead hear everything from gas to everyday goods, that familiar clanging of the basket’s getting out for a day of disc golf on the chains and see the disc come to rest in cheap with your buddies is Maine's the metal caging. best-kept secret this summer. Get out Yet it’s the lush greenery of the there and enjoy a round to discover a Maine outdoors and the camaraderie whole new sport. of friends that add to this sport’s allure. GARRICK HOFFMAN is a freelance photographer, Hanging out in good company on a writer, and graphic designer based in beautiful, sunny day as you meander Auburn. Visit his website at GarrickHoffman. through the woods, drink a couple of com. Follow him on Instagram at @ beers along the way, and listen to your garrickhoffmanphotography and @ favorite music make disc golf one of garrickhoffmanportraits, and on Facebook at @Garrick Hoffman Photography. the state’s best activities. Bittersweet Ridge Disc Golf offers two 18-hole courses off Route 115 in North Yarmouth. A very wooded course Bittersweet Disc Golf with no shortage of trees or brush, 383 Gray Road its terrain varies with many elevation North Yarmouth, ME 04097 changes, making this course dynamic www.facebook.com/BSRDiscGolf and interesting with a welcome challenge. Brickyard Hollow After a fun day outdoors, consider 236 Main Street, a little aprés disc afterward. Drive 10 Yarmouth, ME 04096. minutes to Brickyard Hollow Brewing www.brickyardhollow.com on Main Street in Yarmouth, where craft beers, outdoor seating, and Find a Local Disc Golf Course: an extensive food menu, including www.discgolfscene.com/ gourmet pizzas, await. On a hot courses/Maine PHOTO: ACTIVITY MA INE
activitymaine.com 17
GREATER PORTLAND Kon Asian Bistro Hibachi Bar offers a wide range of cuisine including sushi, sashimi, hibachi, chicken, shrimp, steak, PHOTO COURTESY OF PORTLAND PADDLE
calamari, salmon, fillet mignon, lobster tail, pad thai, teriyaki, tempura, scallop, tuna, rolls, sushi bar entree, orange ginger duck, general tso’s chicken, fried rice, fried udon, soup, salad and beef.
Lunch specials, including the hibachi grill Happy Hour Specials 4:30 - 6:30 Visit our website for hours & fine dining menu BnghtonA"'
i(
Ex146
95
•Lowe's
Portlond
konhibachi.com
1140 Brighton Ave, Portland, ME 04102 P: 207 .874.0000 • 207.874.0033 • F: 207.87 4.0088
PHOTO COURTESY OF POR TLAND YOGA FEST
18 summer / fall | 2021
AA once once in in aa lifetime experience. experience. ABOVE: Happy guests aboard Portland Schooner Company's Bagheera
Portland Schooner Company has been making memories for Casco Bay visitors since 2002. Owned and operated by
Sailing four times Sailingdaily. four
times daily.
husband-and-wife team, Scott Reischmann and Michelle Thresher, the company offers an authentic, Old World sailing experience from May through October aboard Portland’s only historic windjammer. Whether you’re looking to experience the Portland waterfront from a unique perspective or just hoping to step back to a simpler time for a couple hours, Portland Schooner Company offers an experience you don’t want to miss. The adventure begins aboard one of their classic wooden schooners, Bagheera, Heart’s Desire, Timberwind, Vela, or Wendameen. All of the boats were built in Maine by some of the best craftsman in the world and three of them - Bagheera, Timberwind, and Wendameen - are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Two-hour sails depart from the Maine State Pier in Portland’s Old Port and are offered four times daily, presenting visitors with the unforgettable sights and sounds of lighthouses, seabirds, seals, and the rocky coastline. The friendly, professional crew is not only there to provide you with a safe trip, they’re happy to share a bit of Casco Bay history and trivia. You’re invited to join in any way you’d like: hoisting sails alongside a deckhand, taking a turn at the ship’s wheel, or
two-hour sails private charters overnights 207-766-2500 portlandschooner.com
just relaxing and enjoying the ocean breeze and salt air. And you’re welcome to bring food and drinks, including beer and wine aboard. The cost for a two-hour sail is $49-$59 for adults and $33-$59 for children (12 and under) depending on your departure time. Buy tickets at (PORTLANDSCHOONER.COM) or call (207) 766-2500. If you have more time to spend on Casco Bay, Portland Schooner Company also offers charters for family gatherings, corporate functions or even weddings.
located at the Maine State Pier adjacent to Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal
two-hour sails private charters overnights 207-766-2500
activitymaine.com 19
Freeport, Maine
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FREEPORT IS A PICTURESQUE HISTORIC TOWN LOCATED ON THE SHORES OF CASCO BAY 20 minutes north of Portland. It is renowned for being the original home of the world-famous L.L. Bean store. Over the years, other retailers were drawn to the
HARRASEEKET
LUNCH & LOBSTER CO.
(207) 865-4888 Homemade Desserts Too!
town, now known for its outlet shopping. There are also dozens of locally-owned and operated stores, shops, boutiques, and of course many wonderful restaurants.
Serving the Freeport Community for Over 50 Years! 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!
Summer Hours: Lunch 11AM –8:45PM • Lobster Pound 7AM –8:45PM Labor Day to End of Season: Lunch 11AM –7:45PM • Lobster Pound 8AM–7:45PM Live Lobsters Packed to Travel! (207) 865-3535
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Photo by Joyce Love
EXPLORE Maine's Wilderness
See what the lesser known land trusts in Maine have to offer. Story by: JOHN BREERWOOD When I moved to Maine in 2017, it didn’t take me long to realize that this state has an abundance of natural wonders but, more than that, how much the public access to this natural majesty is uncanny. Clearly, more people have realized that since the pandemic shut out their usual activities. The outdoors this past year, proved to be more than just a breath of fresh air for folks who didn’t normally hit the trails. Last summer, Maine’s state parks were overcrowded, forcing 22 summer / fall | 2021
some places to actually close to the public. Chances are though, if you live in Maine, a public forest or land trust hosts a trail system within a short drive from home. “When many of the state parks closed last year, local trails and land trusts were overwhelmed,” said Brunswick Topsham Land Trust (BTLT) Executive Director Angela Twitchell. “There were new people who weren’t aware of their local trails, but, on the other hand, we weren’t prepared
for it.” About half hour north of Portland, the Brunswick/Topsham area presents ample outdoor opportunities for convenient hikes and outdoor recreation. The BTLT is committed to preserving natural areas as well as providing public access. Overall, the BTLT hosts 25 miles of public trails within the towns of Brunswick, Topsham, and Bowdoin. Of all their 62 properties, not all have hiking opportunities since they also preserve wetlands and lease farmland.
Fox kits playing. Photo by Joyce Love
Deer in velvet. Photo by Joyce Love
Tarbox Reserve in Topsham has a lovely trail that loops through a dense forest with excellent views of the Cathance River. Twitchell joined me for a hike on this trail that eventually overlooked the river at high tide and said that this spot is a great place for kids to swim and play in the mud at low tide. Head of Tide Park in Topsham provides opportunities for light hiking, kayaking, and even picnicking along the Cathance River. Maquoit Bay and Woodword Point, both in Brunswick, provide excellent woodsy walks that lead to waterfront points where you can enjoy a dose of salty sea air with a snack or spot birds with your binoculars. Several wooded trails meander through the properties of the Brunswick Landing, the former Navy base. The Kennebec Land Trust (KLT) hosts an impressive variety of hikes and outdoor experiences that consist of more than 70 properties within 21 communities in Kennebec County relatively near Augusta. “We focus on the whole county, not by town, which is unique,” said Jean-Luc Theriault, KLT Stewardship Director. The KLT trails also experienced a large increase in usage last year due to the pandemic,
Pileated Woodpecker. Photo by Joyce Love
Hodgdon Island Preserve. Photo by Theresa Kerchner
prompting them to encourage the use of lesser-used, family-friendly properties, such as Gott Pasture Preserve, Rosmarin & Saunders Family Forest, and Curtis Homestead Conservation Area. If you are looking to paddle to a trailhead, the region has an abundance of lakes, which provide opportunities for scenic hikes, swimming, and canoeing. Lake Cobbosseecontee has three island properties (Hodgdon, Horseshoe, and Perry Island Preserves). Androscoggin Lake has Norris Island and Perkins Woods Preserve has a rocky beach. “All of our properties are unique and quaint in their own ways,” said Tyler Keniston, KLT Stewardship Manager. They also publish a hiking guide that is an excellent resource for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping is allowed by reservation on a few KLT properties. Wakefield Wildlife Sanctuary in West Gardiner has two cabins for rent and Norris Island in Wayne has campsites and a rustic cabin. Summer reservations are quickly booking up, so don’t hesitate to contact the KLT if you are interested. “We’re mostly in line with the state parks policies on camping and campfires,” said Theriault. “We
Kennebec Land Trust. Photo by Andre Tolman
don’t allow fires unless it is in a designated fire ring.” At the moment, BTLT is not offering camping; however, it is actively working on a plan to incorporate a few pilot campsites. “Camping is a great way for families to connect with nature in a different way than just hiking,” said Twitchell. “I am a strong advocate for testing it out.” Every region in Maine has some kind of unique gem. In western Maine, Kingfield Community Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and paddling around Shiloh Pond in 215 acres of protected, public land. Portland Trails provides residents with a trail network with more than 70 miles for hiking. The Maine Land Trust Network (mltn.org) is an excellent resource to find your local land trust. Be sure to follow proper trail etiquette. Don’t litter. Take out what you carry in. These land trusts work tirelessly to provide us with the opportunity. It’s our responsibility to respect it. JOHN BREERWOOD has been magazine writing for over 10 years and enjoying the outdoors since childhood. He currently resides in Topsham, Maine. He teaches English at Lewiston High School and just recently published his first novel, Sinking Dixie, last year.
activitymaine.com 23
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,
through the Mahoosuc Range,
swim, hunt and mountain
providing a single or multi-day
bike. Experience world-class
backpacking trek.
bass, trout, and salmon
Tree-lined main streets,
fishing. Glide along a lake in
friendly towns, country fairs
your canoe or kayak. Venture
and festivals, one-of-a-kind
into the woods for a hike, or
museums, antique shops,
climb a mountain. Bike the
boutiques, unique eateries—
rural byways. Try a zipline
it’s all here in the Lakes and
adventure. Hit a few golf balls.
Mountains Region of western
Ride your ATV on miles and
Maine. Don’t miss the Fryeburg
miles of maintained trails.
Fair, Maine’s Blue Ribbon
The Appalachian Trail passes
Classic.
24 summer / fall | 2021
WINDHAM
CASCO
The Return of Brew Fests 2021 is starting to look a little bit more normal again now that many brew fests around the state are opening back up, as well as fairs, road race events, and concerts. With travel restrictions lifted and masking mandates loosened, Mainers are looking to get their fill this summer and fall at brew fests all over the state. The Maine Lakes Brewfest in Bridgton is celebrating its 17th annual event on the shores of Sebago Lake on September 25, 2021. Organizers are taking every precaution to be compliant with all CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of the patrons, brewers, and volunteers who help make this a popular, sold-out event every year. With nearly 70 percent of the state vaccinated with at least one dose of vaccine, it’s likely most attendees will be vaccinated by the time the Brewfest kicks off. To ensure the safety of the event this year, there will be no mass gathering tents. All breweries will bring their own pop-up tents, and the pouring stations will be spread out. The duration will be one hour shorter and will run from noon to 4 p.m. There is only one ticket price option with all tickets sold on eventbrite. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance because no tickets will be available the day of the event and there is no rain date scheduled at this time. So let's all do our part to help make this a successful comeback. Please be respectful of one another and expect to follow the suggested CDC guidelines for social distancing. Let's join the effort to make it safe and make it fun, so we can come together again and reap some mental health benefits of socialization and human connection once again.
activitymaine.com 25
U.F.O.
Liquor Store, Craft Beers, Fine Wines
$
6 Wine Specials Every Week!
The Umbrella Factory Outlet (U.F.O.) is located in the Shop 'n Save shopping center on the corner of Routes 302 and 35 in Naples, Maine. The U.F.O. offers more than 2,500 square feet of liquor, wine and craft beer choices. It is an agency liquor store, offering more than 1,800 liquor, 1,900 wine, 800 craft beer, 180 nips/pints and 150 cider selections! From hard apple cider to seasonal brews, you’ll find them here! From fruity rieslings to rich merlots, this store provides them! From a smooth vodka to a warm whiskey, browse them at the U.F.O.! This remarkable store not only offers discount beverages but also great prices on cigarettes, cigars and tobacco products. Labeled the “Wine Capital of Maine,” the store expanded in 2015 to add the Craft Beer Runway, which leads to the Lost Moose Campground tasting center where wine and beer tastings are held. The U.F.O. also supplies a selection of cold wine and beer for the customer’s convenience. Visit us at 639 Roosevelt Trail (Route 302) in Naples. U.F.O. Hours Sunday–Saturday 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Check out our website at www.umbrellafactoryofmaine.com and like us on Facebook!
26 summer / fall | 2021
When visiting the Lake Region
Include a Stop at the U.F.O. in Naples! Located at the Naples Shopping Center
WINE
LIQUOR
BEER
Over 1,900 Choices!
Agency Liquor Store
Craft Beer Runway
Compare our Wine Prices with any Competitor on Route 302, Roosevelt Trail
Over 1,800 Choices of Your Favorite Maine Spirits Huge Selection of Nips & Pints FULL 24 FOOT AISLE FO OF VODKA!
Over 800 Beer Choices More Than 100 Hard Ciders
COLD WINE ALSO AVAILABLE!
In the back of the Runway is the Camp Lost Moose Campground.
BEER ONLY!
Open Sunday–Saturday 9AM–8PM Like us on Facebook and Instagram
639 Roosevelt Trail (Rt. 302), Naples, ME • (207) 693-3988 • www.UmbrellaFactorySupermarket.com
The U.F.O. is an extension of the Umbrella Factory Supermarket – an independent Shop ‘n Save Supermarket supplied by Hannaford. Locally owned and operated by David and Gail Allenson.
378!
$
THE MAINE TRIFECTA Looking to play more than just one great golf course on your next vacation? Want to go someplace that you can relax and not spend an arm and a leg? The Maine Trifecta is the perfect solution! Here is a unique deal called the “Maine Trifecta,” which allows golfers to play three beautiful courses; Spring Meadows in Gray, Fox Ridge in Auburn, and Poland Spring in Poland. This deal includes all of the green fees and carts for 18 holes each day plus two nights lodging. POLAND SPRING GOLF COURSE is considered the oldest golf course in America. Famed architect Donald Ross designed the Links style course. Spectacular views of the White Mountains, velvet bend grass greens, beautiful well maintained fairways, ponds, and tees are available for all abilities. SPRING MEADOWS GOLF COURSE A naturally beautiful and challenging layout offers plush fairways and superb greens. “A venue worth the drive… a sweetly sublime design from Maine architect laureate Brad Booth.” — Golf Digest FOX RIDGE GOLF COURSE Rated among Maine’s most challenging 18-hole golf courses, this is the former home of the Maine Open. Designed to take advantage of the natural lay of the land, which will demand every shot in your bag, Fox Ridge is ranked top 10 in Maine by Golf Digest. THE MAINE TRIFECTA PACKAGE The Maine Trifecta Package includes two-nights lodging at the Poland Spring Resort, which has comfortable accommodations in three different inns, or cottages. The Resort has loads of amenities, including grass tennis courts, swimming, bocce, shuffleboard, boating, and lots more. The rate is from $99 per person, double occupancy, and Maine sales tax for the lodging per night plus $180 for three days of golf including cart. FMI Call (207) 998-4351, find us on Facebook or visit POLANDSPRINGRESORT.COM
ROUTE 26
THE ROAD TO MANY MAINE ADVENTURES
L
OCALS AND VISITORS FROM EVERY CORNER
bag. The Golf Learning Center
gemstones (Maine tourmaline,
OF THE WORLD ARE ENCOURAGED TO GO AND
has all facets of improving
Maine amethyst), fine jewelry,
your game covered from
and custom design. Dennis
video analysis to on-course
has dedicated more than
instruction!
20 years to gemcutting 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 30 minutes north of Portland, a family can spend
The Inside Scoop offers their
jewelry design and the pursuit
own delicious homemade ice
of Maine gemstones. He
cream that is made on site!
facets and carves gems with
They have soft serve ice cream
one goal in mind: to create
featuring flavor-bursts, fresh
the brightest, cleanest, most
a day or several days visiting these destinations for
waffle cones, and yummy
beautiful jewels possible. He
very little money – a true value! The gems include:
sweet treats. They also offer
designs jewelry to perfectly
non-dairy treats, sugar-free
enhance and perfectly
ice cream, ice cream cakes
complement a beautiful
and Inside Paws Treats for
gemstone. Julie has more
State Building Museum, Poland Spring Bottling
furry customers. You have the
than 12 years experience
Museum, McLaughlin Garden and Homestead, and
option of inside service with
in business management
Oxford Casino and Hotel.
seating, a walk-up window, or
and customer service and a
drive-thru service for your
lifetime of appreciation for
convenience.
fine jewelry. This, combined
The Maine Wildlife Park, New Gloucester Shaker Village, Poland Spring Resort and Golf Course, Maine
Fenn Park has it all! Located
specializing in cones,
across from the 18-hole
sundaes, and more! The driving range at Poland
Creaser Jewelers owners
with her knowledge of styles
Dennis and Julie Creaser
and trends, both current and
will find miniature golf, a
Spring Resort stretches more
have turned their love of
traditional, guarantees her
disc golf park with private
than 330 yards in length
gemstones and jewelry into
customers’ satisfaction.
and group golf lessons, and
with spectacular views of
a thriving small business
a deluxe driving range. Plus,
Mount Washington. There is
which specializes in Maine
you can reward yourself
a practice bunker and several
at the ice cream shop that
different target greens for
serves Gifford’s Ice Cream
you to work on different
Poland Spring Resort, you
distances and clubs in your
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
activitymaine.com 29
PHOTO BY GABE PERKINS
Just in time for the busy summer visitation season, the Mahoosuc Sustainable Tourism Committee is supporting installation of new signs promoting The Mahoosuc Way: Embrace Our Place Pledge at busy trailheads and boat launches throughout the Bethel region. This initiative is designed to communicate local values
"We love hosting visitors on the Bethel Community Forest and other properties we manage,” says Gabe Perkins, Executive Director of Inland Woods + Trails. “We also understand that not all visitors are familiar with local traditions and the ways we all need to act to sustain our environment and communities. The Pledge is a great tool for engaging people both as visitors and as caretakers.”
trailheads. The new signs will be prominently placed to encourage users to be good stewards of the area’s natural, cultural, and community amenities. Individuals, businesses, and organizations can sign the Embrace Our Place pledge by visiting: mahoosucway.com/ourpledge
to newcomers, visitors, and locals to encourage collective
and residents express their
Cultivate Community, and Be
action to protect and sustain
commitment to behaviors
Climate Conscious.
the quality of place that
rooted in five core values:
makes the area an attractive
Honor this Land, Explore
in part, in response to
area to live in and visit. By
Wisely, Show Respect,
the challenges of overuse and crowding at popular
taking the pledge, visitors
events Bethel Be sure to check activitymaine.com for the most up-to-date information.
The Pledge was developed,
JULY 31: 1st Annual Run and Ride Join us for a 5K trail run and 5K mountain bike race! The fun begins at 8am at Gould Academy’s Pine Hill Trails. A kids run/ride followed by the main event at 9am. bethelouting.org AUG. 7: 40th Annual Andover Olde Home Days, Andover Town Common. This year’s theme is “Home of the Mow-Ta Speedway.” Live music,
cookie walk, craft vendors, a parade, the famous lawn mower races, antique tractor pull, classic car display, food vendors and Horse Shows. 207-3572647 SEPT 18: Maine Brew Fest, Sunday River. Featuring as many as 100 beer selections from around Maine, plus live music, food trucks, and scenic chairlift rides. sundayriver.com. 800-543-2754.
OCT. 9-10: Fall Festival & North American Wife Carrying Championship. Takes place on Saturday and Sunday is the 7th Annual New England Cornhole Championship. Live music, the Blue Mountain Arts & Crafts Fair, and activities for the whole family. sundayriver.com, 800-543-2754
activitymaine.com 31
LEAVE NO TRACE Practice LEAVE NO TRACE Principles to Preserve the Environment and Experience for All
Story & Photos by: CAREY KISH
New to the Maine outdoors this summer? Don’t forget to pack the seven “Leave No Trace” principles when you go! The woods and waters of Maine have seen a monumental increase in outdoor recreation use during the continuing pandemic. This summer and fall promise more of the same with a burgeoning number of new and existing enthusiasts looking to spend some quality time outside enjoying Mother Nature’s bountiful beauty. Your environmental impact matters, and so does that of every other hiker, paddler, mountain biker and camper out there. The combined effects are enormous and have land managers struggling to keep up with an unprecedented demand that is stressing the carrying capacity of trails, facilities and trailheads across Maine. Trash—such as candy bar wrappers, soda bottles, face masks,
32 summer / fall | 2021
tissues, and toilet paper—was just one of the big issues that plagued Maine’s popular outdoor spots last year. Doggy poop bags, random camping, illegal fire pits in fragile places, stripping bark from birch trees, hacking down live trees for firewood, cutting switchbacks, building stacks of rock art, and leaving behind painted rocks were other examples of irresponsible practices that had deleterious physical and visual effects and diminished the experience for everyone. It is critically important for everyone who ventures into the Maine woods to know the seven Leave No Trace principles which encourage the responsible, safe, and enjoyable use of our outdoor resources. As far as possible, we should each practice
these ethics and, where appropriate, gently educate and inform others on the impacts of their less than desirable choices and what the positive alternatives are. The first principle, “Plan Ahead and Prepare,” sets you on the right course for following through with the other six. By maximizing your safety and comfort with good preparation you help to minimize your impact on the environment and others. When you “Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces,” you’re sticking to bare rock, dry grass, sand, and established trails and campsites. In designated areas, concentrate use; in pristine areas, disperse use. To “Dispose of Wastes Properly,” pack out all the garbage you pack in,
Empty trails like this were a little harder to find in this pandemic year.
If there's a privy – however primitive – along the trail, use it.
sent a
not only an eyesore, but repre Illegal fires and firepits are woods. real potential hazard to the
Discarded masks were a signa ture item of trash along trails this past year.
plus that of others less considerate. Disperse the gray water from dish washing and tooth brushing away from fresh water sources. Human waste needs to be dropped into a properly dug cat hole in the organic layer of the soil. Carry and use a small trowel designed for this purpose; a stick or the heel of your shoe won’t do. Always pack out leftover food and containers, used toilet paper, menstrual products, and used baby wipes. If there’s a privy available, please use it. The fourth principle is easy: “Leave What You Find.” Just remember the old slogan of the 1970s, “Take only pictures; leave only footprints.” Just imagine if everyone took home a souvenir. The best way to “Minimize Campfire Impacts” is to forego a fire and use a camp stove. If you must have a fire, use an established fire ring and keep the blaze small. When collecting firewood, remember the four Ds: dead, down, diameter (small) and
distant (100 feet or more from camp). Never leave a campfire unattended, and when you depart, make sure your campfire is stone cold out! “Respect Wildlife” by keeping your distance and never feeding them, not only for your own safety, but also to minimize their dependence on human interaction. Hang your food out of critter reach and keep your pets properly leashed. Finally, “Be Considerate of Other Visitors” by limiting noise (loud conversation, radios) and lights (lanterns, headlamps). Each one of us acting a good steward will help our officials do their job of protecting our precious natural resources. Being courteous and respectful always will ensure that you’ll be welcomed back to the special outdoors places you know and love. For more info on the full spectrum of Leave No Trace outdoor ethics, visit lnt.org.
CAREY KISH of Mt. Desert Island is an avid beer drinker, editor of the AMC Maine Mountain Guide, and author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast.
activitymaine.com 33
RANGELEY PHOTO BY CHRIS RILEY
A SUMMER PARADISE
Text By: BOBBIE RANDOLPH
GREAT CONTENT We feature 100% locally sourced content. So email subscribe@activitymaine.com with your ideas!
Mingo Springs Golf Course Since 1923
18 HOLES OVERLOOKING RANGELEY LAKE Public welcome
•
Tee times recommended
Driving Range
Food & Drink
Leagues & Tournaments
Trail & Bird Walk
Lessons & Rentals
Memberships Available
207-864-5021 | 43 Country Club Road • Rangeley, Maine | mingosprings.com
Caryn Dreyfuss, Broker
Buying? Selling? Investing? Contact Me Directly
(207) 233-8275
2478 Main Street, Rangeley, ME • Cell caryndreyfuss@morton-furbish.com • realestateinrangeley.com
34 summer / fall | 2021
RANGELEY
M
AINE’S RANGELEY LAKES REGION INCLUDES MORE THAN THE 10-SQUARE-MILE LAKE itself, extending to five other large lakes and hundreds
of smaller lakes and ponds. Add rivers and streams, two mountains – Saddleback and The Horn — just east of the lake, and mile after mile of forests and what do you get? A paradise for those who love the great outdoors and all the activities it invites. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, climbing, camping, cycling, wildlife watching, or just lazing beside the lake – whatever your summer bliss, you’ll find it here.
ABOVE: Nice views from Mingo Springs Golf Course
Hikers and climbers have
it’s challenging, and birders
tables and changing rooms,
at Rivers Edge Sports Shop in
their choice of woodland
love it for the variety of
while Rangeley Lake State Park,
Oquossoc.
trails or several mountains.
species that nest alongside the
on the lake’s south shore, has
Bald Mountain Hiking Trail,
course.
a beach with lifeguards; it
lodging options. The Rangeley
between Rangeley and
The area has plenty more
All the lakes and ponds
charges a small day-use fee.
Inn and Tavern overlooking Haley
Mooselookmeguntic lakes,
surrounded by forest make
To explore the lakes and
Pond in the center of town, has
climbs to an altitude of 2,443
a prime wildlife habitat,
ponds and enjoy the wildlife
rooms with lake and mountain
feet for 360-degree views over
and moose-watching and
that make their homes on the
views, as well as a farm-to-table
both lakes.
photography is one of
shore, rent a canoe or kayak
dining room.
the region’s most popular
at Ecopelagicon Kayak Rentals
Maine Street in downtown
activities. If roadside
(ecopelagicon.com) on Pond
Town and Lake Motel, are on a
Rangeley rents and sells fat
“stakeouts” between Rangeley
Street in Rangeley. Single and
beach within easy walking
bikes. They are a full-service
and Eustis — a favorite moose-
double kayaks, canoes, and
distance of restaurants and
bike shop, if your bike needs
spotting spot — aren’t enough,
standup paddleboards can
shops, have beautiful lakefront
a tune-up or repairs. Take
take a moose-watching tour
be rented by the hour, day, or
views; some have well-
a rental from AJ’s to the
with prize-winning moose
week. Ecopelagicon also offers
equipped kitchenettes.
extensive network of trails at
caller Matt Tinker through
tours and lessons in all three
the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center
Green Farm Guide Service.
sports.
AJ Cycles (207-864-2850) on
(RANGELEYLAKESTRAILSCENTER.COM).
With lakes on every side,
You can find equipment and
Rooms at the pet-friendly
Caryn Dreyfuss can help you find your own little spot of heaven in the Rangeley region,
Golfers will appreciate the
it’s hard not to spend some
clothing for all your water
whether it’s a cozy cabin in
scenic Mingo Springs Golf Course,
time enjoying water sports.
sports and other outdoor
the woods or a family-sized
a favorite of both beginners
Lakeside Park, on Main Street
activities at Rangeley Region
lakeside retreat.
and scratch players. Although
in Rangeley, has a free sandy
Sports Shop in Rangeley or
the course is relatively short,
beach with lifeguards, picnic
WILTON
activitymaine.com 35
UMaine Farmington Follow your outdoor passions to find your dream career
Photos By Braden Brothers
Farmington’s Titcomb Mountain Ski area
guided trips, clinics, and events: such
is just seven minutes away.
as hiking Tumbledown Mountain,
The Sandy River runs beside UMF’s
Western Maine is nationally acclaimed
overnight camping at Acadia National
athletics fields, ideal for swimming,
Park, mountain biking the Carrabassett
paddling. and fishing. Or hike the Flint
Rail Trail, skiing at Sugarloaf, overnight
and Bonny Woods trails a short walk up
camping at Gulf Hagas, hiking the
the street from campus. A quick drive
Poplar Stream Falls trail, snowshoeing,
takes Farmington college students to Mt.
or learning to Ski-&-Ride at Titcomb
Blue State Park, the Appalachian Trail,
Mountain. It even rents out mountain
Tumbledown Mountain, and Wilson and
bikes, canoes, kayaks, stand-up
Clearwater Lakes.
paddleboards, camping gear, snowshoes,
To capitalize on its ideal location, UMF
Nordic skis, and more. “The school provides amazing
as a four-season adventure destination
offers a unique Outdoor Recreation
– attracting outdoor enthusiasts from
Business Administration major (ORBA).
opportunities for those who love the
across North America and beyond to the
It combines students’ passion for the
outdoors,” said Mainely Outdoors
region. With outstanding whitewater
great outdoors with marketable skills,
student employee and UMF
rafting, hiking, kayaking, fat bike trails,
allowing them to get jobs in the outdoor
Environmental Planning and Policy
ski areas, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing
recreation industry or to start their
major Avery Boucher “And if you're not
trails and more, there’s something for
own business. ORBA was developed in
already an outdoors enthusiast, UMF will
everyone.
collaboration with business leaders in
do everything to help introduce you a
the outdoor and tourism industry and
ton of great outdoor adventures – right in
University of Maine at Farmington (UMF),
requires an in-person internship, giving
our backyard.”
which has earned a national reputation
students real-world experience – and
for excellence. Farmington has been
valuable professional contacts.
The region is also home to the
named “One of America’s Best Colleges”
UMF also offers an Alpine Operations
by U.S. News & World Report 23 times
Certificate for students in any major. It
since 1998. It’s also affordable – rated
provides core skills specific to the skiing
a “Best Value School” by U.S. News and
industry and prepares students to earn
Money Magazine’s “Best College for Your
PSIA Level-1 certification. Alpine Ops
Money.”
uses Farmington’s Titcomb Mountain as
The small college is situated at the gateway to Sugarloaf, Saddleback, and
its on-hill learning lab. Participating in active outdoors
Sunday River ski areas, and is at the
adventures is inexpensive at UMF. All
epicenter of some of the best hiking,
full-time students get a free season
mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking,
pass to Titcomb Mountain and free
camping, and rafting in the northeast.
learn-to-ski and learn-to-ride lessons.
Miles of trail running and mountain
And its popular Mainely Outdoors
bike trails are right off campus and
adventure program offers students
36 summer / fall | 2021
If you’re into the outdoors, the University of Maine at Farmington is a perfect location to spend your college years.
HOME BREWERS AND THE YEAR OF THE "LONELY BEER" Page 51
&Bev
MAINE BREW BEV GUIDE
Activity Maine
GUIDE
SUMMER/FALL 2021
How a
Beer is
Born
Page 42
plus New Brewer Spotlight: BATH ALE WORKS Page 44 New Brewery Round-Up Put these 17 new breweries all over the state on your road trip list! Pages 45
Living Loose: MAINE'S GOURMET TEAS Page
52
! k c a It's B Tasting Room Directory p. 46
GET YO UR SUBSC RIP T ION!
mainebrewandbev.com
contents Activity Maine
&Bev
SUMMER/FALL 2021
GUIDE
Tasting Room Directory p. 46
HOW A BEER IS BORN p. 42
42 HOW A BEER IS BORN
by Catie Joyce-Bulay
44 NEW BREWER SPOTLIGHT: BATH ALE WORKS
by Kay Stephens
45 NEW BREWERY ROUND-UP 46 TASTING ROOM DIRECTORY 51 HOMEBREWERS AND THE YEAR OF "THE LONLEY" BEER HOMEBREWERS & THE YEAR OF "THE LONELY BEER" p. 51
LIVING LOOSE – MAINE'S GOURMET TEAS p. 52
by Matthew H. Brown
52 LIVING LOOSE – MAINE' GOURMET TEAS by John Breerwood
LIGH T: NE W BR EW ER SP OT 44 BATH AL E WORK S p.
ON THE COVER: "Allagash on Basin Pond” Photo by Garrick Hoffman
38 summer / fall | 2021
Stock Up on Your Favorites!
5 Convenient Locaaons OO I-95! COMING FAA 2021: New Bangor Shooing District Locaaon Double The Space, More Events!
Best Selection of Beer, Wine & Liquor
Damon’s has your Central Maine beverage stop covered! AUGUSTA 75 Bangor Street (207) 623-9864
BANGOR 21 Washington Street (207) 262-5500
SKOWHEGAN 55 North Avenue (207) 474-2312
WATERVILLE 52 Front Street (207) 707-5505
WATERVILLE 6 Jefferson Street (207) 873-6228
#1 Liquor Distributor in Central Maine Free Delivery to Events Free Beverage Consultation for Events
www.damonsbeverage.com
Saturday, September 4, 2021
activitymaine.com 41
HOW A
BEER Born IS
Story & Photos by: CATIE JOYCE-BULAY
From a twinkle in a brewer’s eye at hop harvest to the final concept, some beers are years in the making. Throw in a pandemic and other wrenches, such as can shortages and you get Sebago Brewing Company’s “Pressed for Time,” a juicy New England IPA that first hit shelves this past April. It started with a hop – Idaho 7, to be specific. Sebago head brewer Rusty Packer first fell for the hop known for its juicy tropical and stone fruit characteristics at Crosby Hops, a fifth-generation hops farm in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, during their 2019 hops selection. He visited during their harvest when breweries were invited onto the farm to sample that season’s hops first-hand. There, brewers could
42 summer / fall | 2021
discover what they were looking for in a process known as rubbing – literally rubbing the hops cone between two hands to release its aromas and brewing potential. Packer was struck by the unique aromas of this hop. “There were six or seven brewers in this room rubbing this hop and there were immediately 20 different descriptors that were beyond ‘citrusy, pleasant,’” Packer said. “The little hop cones were releasing aromas like cotton candy, tropical fruits, and different types of citrus. And, it was just like, ‘We gotta make a beer with this at some point.’” The first beer they made with Idaho 7 was a single-hop IPA, but it wasn’t hitting that “wow factor” Packer
had experienced during the rub, so it was back to the drawing board for what would be Sebago’s first full distribution release since 2019’s Haze Fwd, another New England IPA. “I knew I wanted something new, but also, I’m deep into the dad life here so I wanted something that I could stay between the lines and enjoy myself,” he said. “Hitting 7% [ABV] all the time doesn’t quite cut that.” Packer continued to tweak more than four iterations, brewed on the pilot system – a smaller brew system breweries use for experimentation that Sebago patrons got to sample in the taproom. The evolution of that brew included changing up the yeast strain to London 3, a popular strain for
hazy juicy IPAs the brewery also uses in Haze Fwd, and rounding out the beer with Secret, Mosaic, Cascade and Centennial hops before Packer felt like he had hit on something similar to the aromas he smelled during that harvest. Better yet, the brew clocked in at a more reasonable 5.7% ABV Once the kinks are ironed out in a beer on the five-barrel pilot system, the next step is putting it into the brewery’s 40-barrel system to see what it does. “You have to chip away at it in a methodical way until it’s finally hitting that spot,” said Packer, which meant the first canned batch was a blend of three initial batches, a common practice in breweries to achieve consistency. Then it was time to come up with a name. With New England-style IPAs popping up all over the country, “the well’s going dry,” as Director of Brewing Operations Peter Dahlen put it. After riffing off plays on citrus and juice pressing only to find all their ideas already taken by other breweries, someone made an offhand comment that they’d soon be pressed for time. “And everyone was like ‘wait, wait!’” said Dahlen. They Googled it and quickly registered the name when they discovered it wasn’t yet taken. So Pressed for Time it was – little did they know that the name foreshadowed the launch of the beer.
Every Beer Born Different:
How Other Breweries Got to the Finish Line Each beer has a unique origin story that depends not only on beer style but also on the size of the brewery, its customer base, and focus. For Mast Landing Brewing Company, the excitement of new releases is a major driver. They typically release a new beer at least once a month, sometimes weekly, depending on the brewing schedule. “We tend to be pretty fast-paced and dynamic in all elements of the company,” said Director of Marketing Gene Buonaccorsi. The double dry-hopped double IPA “Stamos on Drums & Guitar” was recently released as part of their “From the Vault” series, where they take past collaboration brews and tweak the recipe to make it new and exciting. Tumbledown Brewing releases about two new beers a year. “There’s not a lot of rhyme or reason to it,” said brewer Dane Kaiser. They look for what’s popular and how they can put their creative spin on it. Their recent “Between the Trees IPA,” a fundraiser for Saddleback Mountain’s ski patrol, was brewed with spruce tips. “Funny thing about naming beers,” said Packer. “Sometimes the name comes and then you start to figure out the true irony in it.” The team liked the initial fit of the name. It came out of a pandemic, where everyone was feeling a little pressed for time and so many parents were working from home and homeschooling kids, said Packer, who was juggling that himself. But, he wasn’t sure how the name was going to fit in the brewery. The phrase ended up appearing in many more conversations as materials and ingredients showed up late. Then when the beer was ready to be canned, like other brewers across the country, Sebago faced a can shortage, fueled by an across-the-board increased demand for cans that began before the pandemic.
“We asked ourselves should we have named it something different to make our life easier?” Packer joked. “But, like with anything, the hard work pays off.” The beer made it out into the world only a few days late, but the work doesn’t stop there. Packer said they still have to keep batches consistent and up to the standards of that initial vision. “Each beer kind of takes on a life of its own once it’s released,” said Packer. “There’s the logistics and working out the finer point of improving it to get it to be the best beer it can be.” CATIE JOYCE-BULAY is a Winslow-based freelance writer. When she’s not writing about beer, farming, and travel, she’s hitting the trails or searching for her next favorite brew.
activitymaine.com 43
New Brewer Bath Ale Works is the latest Midcoast taproom and brewery to open in 2021. And while the name is reflective of Bath Iron Works and Maine’s maritime history, the location is actually in Wiscasset, just right up the road 10 minutes at 681 Bath Road. (Long story short: the original taproom was supposed to open in Bath, but hey, at least they ended up on Bath Road!) Owners Pepper and Jean Powers have made this a family dream come true as Pepper has been homebrewing traditional English and Continental styles since 1993. They now brew
Spotlight By: KAY STEPHENS
with a 10 BBL system by Tigpro. The spacious taproom welcomes singles, couples, families, and even dogs with a private outdoor courtyard in back. Don’t miss their flagship Down Easter Pale Ale, a lightly-hopped golden
Pale Ale on a summer day. But, equally as delicious is their Steel Cutter Stout, a refreshingly smooth and tasty black ale. Snackable “Ploughman’s lunch” offerings are on the menu as well as the occasional appearance of the hilariously named food truck “Shut Up and Eat It.” Or bring your own snacks! They don’t mind. “We’re just looking forward to being part of the Maine brewing scene in the Comeback Summer of ‘21,” Powers said. FMI: WWW.BATHALEWORKS.COM
(L to R:) Tanya Gamache, taproom manager, Jean Powers, co-owner, Pepper Powers, co-owner, and Mike Acker, assistant brewer. Photos courtesy Stan Rintz
44 summer / fall | 2021
It’s astounding that nearly 17 new breweries opened or opened a second location during a pandemic year, particularly when so many of these businesses were hampered this year with state distancing mandates, so we’re thrilled to see the industry continue to roar back to life. With more than 150 breweries in the state, Maine is closing in on (if we have not already surpassed) Vermont’s record for having more breweries per capita. Here’s a regional list of new breweries and where to go on your next brewcation!
Downeast & Acadia
Greater Portland
Atlantic Brewing Co. Midtown
Belleflower Brewing
2nd Location – 52 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor www.atlanticbrewing.com/midtown
Fogtown Brewing Co.
2nd Location – 33 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor www.fogtownbrewing.com
Horn Run Brewing
66 Cove Street, Portland www.belleflowerbeer.com
Banded Brewing Co.
Marshall Wharf
New Owners; Re-Opening – 36 Marshall Wharf, Belfast www.marshallwharfbrewing.com
Bath Ale Works
2nd Location – 82 Hanover Street, Suite 6, Portland www.bandedbrewing.com
681 Bath Road, Wiscasset www.bathaleworks.com
Fore River Brewing Co.
Brewer Name
75 Water Street, Eastport Facebook: Hornrunbrewing
2nd Location – 45 Huntress Ave, South Portland www.foreriverbrewing.com
Bad Little Brewing
W.A.R. Brewing Co. – Willy's Ale Room
101 Court Street, Machias Instagram: @badlittlebrewing
Midcoast
Address Website
Maine Beaches (Southern Maine)
1060 Rout 109, Acton Facebook: WARBrewingCo
Definitive Brewing
Kennebec & Moose River Valley
2nd Location – 318 US-1, Kittery www.definitivebrewing.com
Blaze Brewing Co.
2nd Location – 28 Pearl Street, Biddeford www.blazebrewing.com
Maine Highlands
Jokers & Rogues Brewing
339 Water Street, Gardiner Facebook: Jokers & Rogues Brewing
WEstern Maine Mt. Treehouse Kombucha
154 Sam Brown Hill Road, Brownfield www.mountaintreehousekombucha.com
Outland Farm Brewing
113N Lancey Street, Suite 6 & 7, Pittsfield www.outlandfarmbrewery.com
Gordon's Grog
330 Todds Corner Road, St. Albans www.gordonsgrog.com
activitymaine.com 45
TASTING ROOM DIRECTORY Note: Information is accurate at time of printing. Before heading out please check ahead to confirm. Business Name
City
Address
Find Us On Facebook
Tasting Room / Bar
Food Service
Outdoor Seating
MAINE BEACHES Corner Point Brewing Co
Berwick
1 Sullivan Street, Berwick, ME 03901
Y
Y
N
Y
Banded Brewing Co
Biddeford
32 Main St, Biddeford, ME 04005
Y
Y
Y
Y
Blaze Brewing Company
Biddeford
28 Pearl Street, Biddeford, ME
Y
Y
Y
Y
Shipyard Brew Pub
Eliot
28 Levesque Dr., Eliot Commons, Eliot, ME 03903
Y
Y
Y
Y
Batson River Brewing and Distilling
Kennebunk
12 Western Avenue, Kennebunk, Maine 04043
Y
Y
Y
Y
Federal Jack's Brewpub / Kennebunkport Brewing Company
Kennebunk
8 Western Ave., Unit# 6, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sebago Brewing Co.
Kennebunk
65 Portland Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Y
Y
Y
Y
Definitive Brewing Company
Kittery
318 US Route 1 Kittery ME
Y
Y
Y
Y
Tributary Brewing Company
Kittery
10 Shapleigh Rd, Kittery, ME 03904
Y
Y
N
Y
Woodland Farms Brewery
Kittery
306 Route 1, Suite C Kittery, ME 03904
Y
Y
Y
N
Gneiss Brewing Company
Limerick
94 Patterson Rd, Limerick, ME 04048
Y
Y
Y
Y
Funky Bow Brewery & Beer Company
Lyman
21 Ledgewood Ln, Lyman, ME 04002
Y
Y
Y
Y
GFB Scottish Pub
Old Orchard Beach
32 Old Orchard Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME
Y
Y
Y
N
Barreled Souls Brewing Company
Saco
743 Portland Rd, Saco, ME 04072
Y
Y
Y
Y
Run of the Mill Public House & Brewery
Saco
100 Main St, Saco, ME 04072
Y
Y
Y
Y
Xota Brewing
Waterboro
721 Main Street, Waterboro, ME 04087
Y
Y
N
Y
Hidden Cove Brewing Company
Wells
73 Mile Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Y
Y
N
Y
SoMe Brewing Company
York
1 York St Unit 3, York, ME 03909
Y
Y
Y
Y
York Beach Beer Company
York
33 Railroad Ave, York, Maine 03910
Y
Y
Y
Y
GREATER PORTLAND Gritty McDuff's
Freeport
187 Lower Main St, Freeport, ME 04032
Y
Y
Y
Y
Maine Beer Company
Freeport
525 US-1, Freeport, ME 04032
Y
Y
Y
Y
Lone Pine Brewing Company
Gorham
48 Sanford Drive, Gorham, ME 04038
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sebago Brewing Co.
Gorham
48 Elm St, Gorham, ME 04038
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sebago Brewing Co. (Brewery)
Gorham
616 MAIN STREET, GORHAM, ME 04038
Y
Y
Y
Y
Shipyard Inn on Peaks Island
Peaks Island
33 Island Ave, Peaks Island, ME 04108
Y
Y
Y
Y
Nonesuch River Brewing Company
Scarborough
201 Gorham Road, Scarborough ME 04074
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sebago Brewing Co.
Scarborough
201 Southborough Dr, Scarborough, ME 04074
Y
Y
Y
Y
Fore River Brewing Company
South Portland
45 Huntress Ave, South Portland, ME 04106
Y
Y
Y
Y
Fore River Brewing Company Production Facility
South Portland
Park Avenue, South Portland, ME 04106
Y
N
N
N
Foulmouthed Brewing
South Portland
15 Ocean Street, South Portland, Maine 04106
Y
Y
Y
Y
Freeport Brewing Company
South Portland
130 Breakwater Drive, South Portland, ME, 04106
Y
N
N
N
Island Dog Brewing
South Portland
125 John Roberts Rd, South Portland, ME 04106
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
South Portland
125 Western Ave, South Portland, ME 04106
Y
Y
Y
Y
46 summer / fall | 2021
Business Name
City
Address
Find Us On Facebook
Tasting Room / Bar
Food Service
Outdoor Seating
Mast Landing Brewing Company
Westbrook
920 Main St, Westbrook, ME 04092
Y
Y
Y
Y
Yes Brewing
Westbrook
609 Main St, Westbrook, ME 04092
Y
Y
N
N
Allagash Brewing Company
Portland
50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103
Y
Y
Y
Y
Austin Street Brewery
Portland
1 Industrial Way #8, Portland, ME 04103
Y
Y
Y
Y
Austin Street Brewery
Portland
115 Fox Street, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Banded Brewing Co (Portland)
Portland
82 Hanover Street Portland ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Batson River Brewing and Distilling
Portland
82 Hanover St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Battery Steele Brewing
Portland
1 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103
Y
Y
N
N
PORTLAND
Belleflower Brewing Company
Portland
66 Cove Street, Portland ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Bissell Brothers
Portland
4 Thompsons Point #108, Portland, ME 04102
Y
Y
Y
Y
Bunker Brewing Co
Portland
17 Westfield St Unit D, Portland, ME 04102
Y
Y
Y
Y
D.L. Geary Brewing
Portland
38 Evergreen Dr, Portland, ME 04103
Y
Y
Y
Y
Definitive Brewing Company
Portland
35 Industrial Way Portland, ME, 04103
Y
Y
Y
Y
Foundation Brewing
Portland
1 Industrial Way #5, Portland, ME 04103
Y
Y
Y
Y
Goodfire Brewing Company
Portland
219 Anderson Street Unit 6, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Gritty McDuff's
Portland
396 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Liquid Riot Bottling Company
Portland
250 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Lone Pine Brewing Company
Portland
219 Anderson St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Oxbow Brewing Company
Portland
49 Washington Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Portland Zoo
Portland
41 Fox Street, Portland ME 04101
Y
Y
N
Y
Rising Tide Brewing Company
Portland
103 Fox St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Root Wild Kombucha
Portland
135 Washington Ave. Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
N
Y
Sebago Brewing Co.
Portland
211 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
Shipyard Brewing Company
Portland
86 Newbury St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
N
N
Urban Farm Fermentory + Gruit (Kombucha, Cider + Beer)
Portland
200 Anderson St, Portland, ME 04101
Y
Y
Y
Y
WESTERN MOUNTAINS Steam Mill Brewing
Bethel
7 Mechanic St, Bethel, ME 04217
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sunday River Brewing Company
Bethel
29 Sunday River Rd, Bethel, ME 04217
Y
Y
Y
Y
Bag & Kettle Brewpub (seasonal)
Carrabasset Valley
Village West, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947
Y
Y
Y
N
Tumbledown Brewing
Farmington
805 Farmington Falls Rd, Farmington, ME 04938
Y
Y
N
Y
Saco River Brewing
Fryeburg
10 Jockey Cap Ln, Fryeburg, ME 04037
Y
Y
N
Y
Birchwood Brewing
Gray
19 Portland Road, Gray, ME 04039
Y
Y
N
Y
Fluvial Brewing
Harrison
860 Maple Ridge Rd., Harrison, ME, 04040
Y
Y
Y
N
NU Brewery
New Gloucester
437 Lewiston Rd., New Gloucester, Maine, 04260
Y
Y
Y
Y
Norway Brewing Company
Norway
237 Main St, Norway, ME 04268
Y
Y
Y
Y
Oxbow Beer Garden
Oxford
420 Main St., Oxford, ME 04270
Y
Y
Y
Y
Furbish BrewHouse
Rangeley
2451 Main St, Rangeley, ME 04970
Y
Y
Y
Y
Kennebec River Pub & Brewery
The Forks
1771 US-201, West Forks, ME 04985
Y
Y
Y
Y
Ambition Brewing
Wilton
295 Main Street, Wilton, ME, 04294
Y
Y
Y
Y
Gritty McDuff's
Auburn
68 Main St, Auburn, ME 04210
Y
Y
Y
Y
Lost Valley Brewing Company
Auburn
200 Lost Valley Rd, Auburn, ME 04210
Y
Y
Y
Y
Side by Each Brewing Co
Auburn
1110 Minot Ave., Auburn, ME 04210
Y
Y
Y
Y
Cushnoc Brewing Co
Augusta
243 Water St., Augusta, ME 04330
Y
Y
Y
N
Cushnoc Brewing Co Tasting Room
Augusta
40 Front St., Augusta, ME 04330
Y
Y
Y
Y
Cushnoc Brewing Co Annex
Augusta
3044 North Belfast Ave., Augusta, ME 04330
Y
Y
N
N
Bateau Brewing
Gardiner
149 Water Street, Gardiner ME
Y
Y
N
N
CENTRAL MAINE
activitymaine.com 47
Business Name
City
Address
Find Us On Facebook
Tasting Room / Bar
Food Service
Outdoor Seating
Jokers and Rogues Brewing
Gardiner
339 Water Street, Gardiner, Maine
Y
Y
Y
Y
Liberal Cup Public House and Brewery
Hallowell
115 Water St #1, Hallowell, ME 04347
Y
Y
Y
N
Baxter Brewing Co.
Lewiston
130 Mill St, Lewiston, ME 04240
Y
Y
Y
Y
Grateful Grain Brewery
Monmouth
26 Route 126, Monmouth, ME 04259
Y
Y
Y
Y
Outland Farm Brewery
Pittsfield
113 North Lancey Street, Pittsfield ME
Y
Y
N
Y
Bigelow Brewing Company
Skowhegan
473 Bigelow Hill Rd, Skowhegan, ME 04976
Y
Y
Y
Y
Oak Pond Brewery
Skowhegan
101 Oak Pond Rd, Skowhegan, ME 04976
Y
Y
N
N
Gordon's Grog
St Albans
330 Todd's Corner Rd, St Albans, ME
Y
Y
Y
Y
Waterville Brewing Company
Waterville
10 Water Street, Suite 111, Waterville, ME 04901
Y
Y
N
N
van der Brew
Winthrop
30 Summer St, Winthrop, ME 04364
Y
Y
N
Y
GREATER BANGOR 2 Feet Brewing
Bangor
80 Columbia St, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
Y
Bangor Beer Company
Bangor
330 Bangor Mall Blvd, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
Y
Black Bear Brewing
Bangor
191 Exchange St, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
Y
Geaghan's Pub (Restaurant)
Bangor
570 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
Y
Orono Brewing Company - Downtown Bangor
Bangor
26 State St, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
N
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
Bangor
26 Front St, Bangor, ME 04401
Y
Y
Y
Y
207 Beer Company
Brewer
71 Center St, Brewer, ME 04412
Y
Y
N
N
Blank Canvas Brewery
Brewer
71 Center St, Brewer, ME 04412
Y
Y
Y
N
Geaghan Brothers Brewing Company
Brewer
34 Abbott Street, Brewer, ME 04412
Y
Y
Y
Y
Mason's Brewing Company
Brewer
15 Hardy St, Brewer, ME 04412
Y
Y
Y
N
Tattooed Dad Brewing Co
Jackson
894 Moosehead Trail, Jackson, ME 04921
N
Y
N
Y
Black Bear Brewing
Orono
36 Main St Orono, ME 04473
Y
Y
Y
Y
Marsh Island Brewing
Orono
2 Main St Orono, ME 04473
Y
Y
Y
Y
Orono Brewing Company
Orono
20 Main St, Orono, ME 04473
Y
Y
Y
N
Northern Maine Brewing Co
Caribou
22 Main St, Caribou, ME 04736
Y
Y
Y
Y
First Mile Brewing Company
Fort Kent
28 Market St. Suite 103, Fort Kent, ME 04743
Y
Y
Y
N
Bissell Brothers (Milo)
Milo
157 Elm Street, Milo, ME 04463
Y
Y
Y
Y
Turning Page Farm
Monson
842 N. Guilford Rd. Monson, ME, 04464
Y
Y
Y
Y
NORTHERN MAINE
MIDCOAST Bath Ale Works
Bath
681 Bath Rd, Bath, ME
Y
Y
Y
Y
Bath Brewing Company
Bath
141 Front Street, Bath, ME 04530
Y
Y
Y
Y
Frosty Bottom Brewing
Belfast
18 Hunt Road, Belfast ME 04915
Y
N
N
N
Marshall Wharf Brewing Company
Belfast
40 Marshall Wharf, Belfast, ME 04915
Y
Y
Y
Y
Boothbay Craft Brewery
Boothbay
301 Adams Pond Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537
Y
Y
Y
Y
Footbridge Brewery
Boothbay Harbor
25 Granary Way, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Y
Y
Y
Y
Black Pug Brewing Company
Brunswick
30 Bath Road, Brunswick, ME 04011
Y
Y
Y
Y
Flight Deck Brewing
Brunswick
11 Atlantic Ave Brunswick, ME 04011
Y
Y
Y
Y
Moderation Brewing Company
Brunswick
103 Maine St, Brunswick, ME 04011
Y
Y
Y
Y
Blaze Brewing Company
Camden
5 Bay View Street, Camden, ME 04032
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
Camden
1 Main St, Camden, ME 04843
Y
Y
Y
Y
Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company
Freeport
20 Bow Street, Freeport, ME
Y
Y
Y
N
Stars and Stripes Brewing Company
Freeport
8 Varney Rd, Freeport, ME 04032
Y
Y
N
Y
Lake St. George Brewing Company
Liberty
4 Marshall Shore Road Liberty, ME 04949
Y
Y
Y
Y
Monhegan Brewing Company (seasonal)
Monhegan
1 Boody Lane, Monhegan, ME 04852
Y
Y
N
Y
Oxbow Brewing Company
Newcastle
274 Jones Woods Rd, Newcastle, ME 04553
Y
Y
Y
Y
North Haven Brewing Company
North Haven
2 Iron Point Rd, North Haven, ME 04853
Y
Y
N
Y
48 summer / fall | 2021
Business Name
City
Address
Find Us On Facebook
Tasting Room / Bar
Food Service
Outdoor Seating N
Liberator Brewing Company
Rockland
218 S Main St, Rockland, ME 04841
Y
Y
Y
Rock Harbor Brewing Company (seasonal taproom)
Rockland
5 Payne Ave, Rockland, ME 04841
Y
Y
Y
Y
Rock Harbor Pub & Brewery
Rockland
416 Main St, Rockland, ME 04841
Y
Y
Y
N
Threshers Brewing Company
Searsmont
22 Main St, Searsmont, ME 04793
Y
Y
Y
Y
Waterman's Beach Brewery
South Thomaston
362 Waterman Beach Rd., South Thomaston, ME 04858
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
Topsham
1 Bowdoin Mill Island #100, Topsham, ME 04086
Y
Y
Y
Y
The Pour Farm
Union
56 Crawfordsburn Lane, Union, ME 04862
Y
Y
Y
Y
Odd Alewives Farm Brewery
Waldoboro
99 Old Rte One, Waldoboro, ME 04572
Y
Y
Y
Y
Trinken Brewing Co
West Bath
144 State Rd, West Bath, ME 04530
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sasanoa Brewing
Westport Island
61 Tarbox Road, Westport Island, Maine 04578
Y
Y
Y
Y
Sheepscot Valley Brewing Co.
Whitefield
74 Hollywood Blvd, Whitefield, ME 04353
Y
Y
Y
Y
Penobscot Bay Brewery / Winterport Winery (seasonal)
Winterport
279 S Main St, Winterport, ME 04496
Y
Y
N
Y
Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company
Yarmouth
236 Main St, Yarmouth, ME 04096
Y
Y
Y
Y
Airline Brewing Company Brewery
Amherst
22 Mill Ln Amherst, Maine, 04605
Y
Y
Y
Y
Atlantic Brewing Company (seasonal)
Bar Harbor
15 Knox Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Y
Y
Y
Y
Atlantic Brewing Midtown (seasonal)
Bar Harbor
8 Mt Desert St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Y
Y
Y
Y
Horn Run Brewing
Eastport
75 Water Street, Eastport, ME
Y
Y
N
Y
Airline Brewing Company Pub
Ellsworth
173 Main Street Ellsworth, ME 04605
Y
Y
Y
N
Fogtown Brewing Company
Ellsworth
25 Pine Street, Ellsworth, ME 04605
Y
Y
Y
Y
Lubec Brewing Company
Lubec
41 Water St, Lubec, ME 04652
Y
Y
Y
N
Strong Brewing Company
Sedgwick
7 Rope Ferry Rd, Sedgwick, ME 04676
Y
Y
Y
Y
Downeast
activitymaine.com 49
Find Our Beer:
Tasting Room at One Industrial Way in Portland & at fine retailers throughout Maine
Follow @FOUNDATIONBREW for news & updates! Brewing a full spectrum of styles in Portland, Maine
As MASON’S BREWING COMPANY closes out their fifth full year, they are extremely grateful for the support of the local craft beer community and humbled by how far their brewery operations have come. Through Mason's extensive
FOUNDATION BREWING COMPANY, based in Portland, Maine,
distribution, their brand has expanded into five other New
focuses on exploring the full breadth of the brewing sciences
England states (NH, CT, RI, MA, NY, NJ, and CA) and they
and arts, something they call Full-Spectrum Brewing. From big
have sent beer across the pond to Ireland, Iceland, Spain,
hop-forward IPAs and jammy fruit beers to traditional lagers
Scotland, England, and the Netherlands. Mason’s finished
and barrel-aged wild beers, their goal is to provide a varied and
their expansion in fall of 2019, which included extending
layered craft beer experience. Beer lovers and newcomers alike
the brewing facility with the addition of much needed
can enjoy their full breadth of styles on their large outdoor patio,
fermentation tanks and a newer canning line. This expansion
a spacious and welcoming oasis on Industrial Way, the birthplace
will also house a seasonal tap / banquet room facing the river.
of generations of great Maine craft beers.
To friends, family and the craft beer community, Mason’s Brewing Company says “THANK YOU!”
15 Hardy Street • Brewer, ME (207) 989-6300 • Open 7 Days
50 summer / fall | 2021
masonsbrewingcompany.com
HOMEBREWERS and the year of
"The Lonely Beer" Story by: MATTHEW H. BROWN
The year 2020 handed us all a haymaker that no one saw coming. Shops closed, people sequestered in their homes, and homebrewers sat uninspired and full of malaise. Events that inspired incredible fermented offerings, or collaborations between professional and amateur brewers alike, were all put aside in the collective effort to stem the rampant onslaught of the pandemic. COVID-19 had cut us off from easily one of the greatest facets of beer culture – socialization. Getting through this year wasn’t at all about experiential learning or driving the craft forward; it was about survival. I sat down with Gregg Carine, a 25-year homebrewer and member of the Portland Mashing Maineiacs over a pint at Foundation Brewing in Portland to get his perspective on the year prior and how many of homebrewers navigated the tricky situation. He elaborated on the utter disconnect that so many of the club members seemed to feel and the fact that virtual events were such a terrible substitute for the interpersonal elements that make a beer club great. “I brew to share at a party, or a wedding, for example,” he said. “That completely ended. I still have 30 gallons of beer in storage – some of it
Hall. Alaskan homebrewer, Brian Photo by Matthew Brown
The author Matthew Brown brewing at home. Photo by Brendan Porter
probably went bad. Truthfully, my cocktail consumption went up.” Making five gallons or 50 gallons is often the same amount of time intensity for small homebrew operations, so spending that amount of time to make anything that cannot be shared wasn’t a good use of time for many. Much of it will end up spoiling, or else homebrewers will make a narrow suite of styles that could feasibly last extended periods of time. In either event, the benefits waned and the local club went dormant. Homebrewing is very social hobby for many, and without that outlet to share their product with others, many simply gave it up. With the proliferation of good local breweries in the area, many homebrewers found it a better strategy to support those institutions and no longer brew at home. A major issue Carine brought up was that the demographic of the club was getting older and that they didn’t have a younger, core group to help drive enthusiasm. I left the conversation largely deflated. I then called the man that taught me to homebrew. Brian
Hall, now in Anchorage, Alaska, lived for four years in Portland while his wife was in a residency program at Maine Medical. He rapidly became a respected and venerated member of Portland underground brewing scene and so I decided to compare his experiences in Alaska to ours locally. His response was sadly similar. “Zoom meetings with our local club felt largely unappealing,” he lamented. “I had them on in the background and generally ignored the content. I spent most of my time focusing on rebuilding my homebrewing set up, and I know lots of members who made beer that just sat around and went bad. It wasn’t a great time.” The situation wasn’t confined to our region, it seems. With vaccination rates climbing, and the country beginning to open up, where do we see the incubator system of Maine beer culture going in the post-COVID reality? And how do we better encourage a younger group of enthusiasts to join the ranks and breathe fresh life into the craft? Perhaps the best course is to leverage both amateur and professional brewers. As regulations relax in the post-COVID reality, inspiring a new generation of homebrewers could be fostered between existing homebrewers and professional brewhouses. Homebrewers make the art approachable while professionals can offer resources and talented minds. The fusion of these two forces could serve to inspire new generation of enthusiasts. And who knows where that could lead? Perhaps to your next favorite brewery. MATTHEW H. BROWN has been a homebrewer for seven years and is a Certified Cicerone. He lives in the East Deering neighborhood of Portland and works in finance.
activitymaine.com 51
Maine's Gourmet Teas Story by: JOHN BREERWOOD
It’s odd that Americans have yet to discover tea that’s nearly 5,000 years old and the most consumed beverage worldwide. Perhaps that disconnect happened when we chose freedom over tea by dumping it into Boston Harbor? But, Mainers like discovering themselves and their state, and more and more folks are finding out how wonderful the mighty leaf is. Just like its craft beer industry, Maine’s tea companies are committed to quality and solidarity. Green Tree Coffee and Tea, Cup of Sea, Tempest in a Teapot, and Bar Harbor Tea Company are here to either warm your bones or cool your jets, depending on the weather. I actually began drinking tea out of necessity. Coffee in excess gave me jitters and bellyaches, so I needed an alternative. Gradually, tea would become my daily beverage since it’s
52 summer / fall | 2021
so versatile in flavor and mood. Once I began drinking “loose tea” I was hooked. The freshness was undeniable. John Ostrand, owner of Green Tree Coffee and Tea said, “Generally, speaking, I think Maine, like the rest of the country, is just discovering loose teas.” Most of us are familiar with the box or tin containing several little bags. Loose tea, however, allows you to scoop leaves into bags or reusable tea steepers. “Once people discover the difference in quality and that they can do their own ‘blending,’ they are more interested in tea,” he said. Ostrand began roasting coffee for the hospitality industry as early as 1997. Located in Lincolnville Beach, Green Tree Coffee and Tea eventually expanded their offerings, carrying blended gourmet teas. Preferring his “jolt of coffee” in the morning, Ostrand said, “I just really started enjoying tea in the afternoon.” The Fogbuster (black) and Wellness Blend (herbal) are popular blends for their rich flavors. The Ceylon Estate and Organic Green Ginger Pineapple are delicious iced on a hot day. Cup of Sea blends locally sourced seaweed and loose tea, which has a pleasant, salty essence
Photo courtesy of Bar Harbor Tea Company
Living Loose
that is unlike anything I’ve had, short of tasting the ocean itself. Founder Josh Rogers said, “Seaweed is local and it’s as ‘Maine’ as lobsters or blueberries.” Emigrating from Canada to Grand Manan Island, Rogers’s greatgrandparents enjoyed both eating seaweed and drinking tea. While working in New York City, Rogers recalled his great-grandparents’ passions and combined them into a memorable tea as a testimony to his home state. “I missed the Maine Coast so much that I wanted something with the power to transport me there every day,” he said. “The aroma and taste of our blends have that effect.” In doing so, Rogers’s company is the first worldwide to sell seaweed tea. The Sailor’s Cure-All, an herbal, is a turmeric-ginger/seaweed tea, an aromatic, zesty blend that serves as a good remedy for inflammation. The Great Wave, a green tea, possesses a mellow, saline goodness. The Sea Smoke is the rauchbier or the Islay scotch of tea— a delicious blend of dulse seaweed and smoked black tea. Rogers describes Sea Smoke as “camping by the beach in Maine.” The Bold Coast Breakfast is more of a traditional black tea with subtle oceanic notes, yet rich in flavor. An iced Emerald Honeybush is refreshing
on a summer day as well. These teas are available at their retail shop Heritage Seaweed in Portland, along with several specialty stores across the state. Check them out at the Common Ground Fair in Unity this summer. By saying “a tempest in a teapot,” one might refer to something small or insignificant being overblown. Though Tempest in a Teapot is a small operation, the quality of their tea is significant. Sisters Tammy Blake and Rebecca Emerson bought the business from the previous owners in 2015 and decided that Maine ingredients would be a large part of their blends. “We have been so blessed with great farmers in Maine,” said Blake. “We dry Maine blueberries, cranberries, mint, raspberries, apples, peaches, and blackberries for our blends, using farms and orchards from Deer Isle to Dresden.” Operating two blending houses, (Stonington and Cushing, ME) Tempest in a Teapot sells to many places such as Whole Foods Market in Portland, The Good Life Market in Windham, and the Tradewinds Marketplace in Blue Hill. Having discovered them at the Winter Farmers’ Market in Brunswick, I found them personable
and knowledgeable about their craft. They always had several samples for sipping pre-pandemic!
So how does caffeine in tea generally compare with coffee? Black tea (50% less) Green tea (30-35% less) Herbal tea (Caffeine-free) Black tea blends such as the Peachy Keen and the Backyard Blackberry provide a morning boost with a fruity finish. The Summer Blueberry, an herbal, contains lemongrass, which complements the dried blueberries wonderfully. The Holy Cranberry contains cinnamon and ginger root for a calming, yet festive, sitting. For a hot summer day, the Iced Rosie is an excellent choice. As Blake said, “It is a precious blend of hibiscus, rosehips, honeybush, and orange. Our customers make popsicles with it and sometimes add a little orange vodka!” Bar Harbor Tea Company opened in 2006 and its owner Stacy Downey has been proud to serve Mainers ever since. “We were on the forefront of the ‘Go Local’ movement,” she said. “Our
company was born out of a great love for fresh tea using local ingredients like wild Maine blueberries without artificial preservatives.” Hand blending and packaging in-house, they source tea from trusted growers. “We are here for the sake of good tea,” Downey said. “Not only do our customers appreciate the taste and local flavor, but the attention to detail.” On a hot day, try the Wild Maine Blueberry or the Pomegranate Green iced for a refreshing treat. In addition to their retail store in Bar Harbor, you can find their teas in several specialty shops, such as Wilbur’s of Maine in Brunswick where I bought my grandmother Christmas tea. She loved it. Tea, like beer, is a craft that involves quality and commitment. Generic teabags and domestic lagers should not define the craft. We all discovered craft beer at some point, right? Why should the journey end? JOHN BREERWOOD has been magazine writing formore than 10 years and enjoying the outdoors since childhood. He currently resides in Topsham, Maine. He teaches English at Lewiston High School, and just recently published his first novel, Sinking Dixie, last year.
activitymaine.com 53
Majestic
Photo by Johanna S. Billings
MT. KINEO Don’t just look at Mt. Kineo from a distance — see it up close from the water and on land. Story by: JOHANNA S. BILLINGS Listen. The Mount Kineo Golf Course is calling. Don’t ignore it just because you don’t golf. Mt. Kineo offers more than six miles of hiking trails with spectacular views overlooking Moosehead Lake. The golf course is simply the gateway to outdoor adventure. Mt. Kineo is situated on a 1,150acre peninsula, which, though connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land, has no road access. The only way to get there is by boat and that’s part of the fun. The golf course runs the Kineo Shuttle, a ferry, across Moosehead Lake from
54 summer / fall | 2021
Rockwood from May to October. Golfers and hikers take a 10-minute ride over and the trip features a direct view of the mountain. Plan your trip carefully and watch the time while you’re there. Shuttle hours vary by month. You want to be sure you’ll be done with your hike and ready to catch the boat back in time. If you miss the last shuttle, there is no other way back. You’re stuck! If you go in June when the shuttle runs every two hours, this limits how long you can spend on the trails without the risk of missing the boat. The nice thing about being there in June, though, is you get a more serene
experience because there are fewer people out on the trails. The peninsula, part of Mt. Kineo State Park, offers four hiking trails, each geared to a different hiking experience, which can be combined for longer excursions. The most difficult and most direct one to the summit is the Indian Trail, which takes hikers .9 miles along the open ledge and offers the best views. Those who want a somewhat easier climb can follow the 1.1-mile Bridle Trail. The hike follows the original fire warden trail, winding through the woods and offering more shade than the more strenuous Indian Trail.
The Indian Trail is the most direct and most strenuous way to reach the Mt. Kineo summit. The Bridle Trail offers another option, as this sign shows. Hikers can also walk along the shore by taking the Carriage Road. Photo by Sean Billings
While the Indian Trail offers the best views, those taking the Bridle Trail still get the chance to see their surroundings from above. This photo was taken where the two trails meet right before the summit. Photos by Sean Billings
The Mt. Kineo Golf Course and Clubhouse look like a combination of a miniature diorama and a painting as seen from the summit. Photo by Johanna S. Billings
The Kineo Shuttle Regardless of which trail you take, you can catch some astounding views at the point where the two trails meet on the way to the summit. Both trails will bring you to an old fire tower, which you can climb to enjoy a fantastic 360-degree view. Bring your camera but be prepared for the fact that no camera can capture the experience of looking around from the top of the tower. Those who prefer not to climb can enjoy the easy 2.2-mile Carriage Trail, which takes hikers along the Moosehead Lake shore to Hardscrabble Point. If you enjoy a shoreline hike, but still want to see the summit, this trail connects to the 1.9-mile North Trail, which also brings you to the summit and the fire tower.
Even if you don’t golf, make sure to check out the view of the golf course from the summit. The view from so high above the course makes it look like a combination of a painting and a miniature diorama. Depending on the boat schedule and how far you choose to hike, you may have time for lunch at the golf course clubhouse. Order food and beverages at a walk-up window and enjoy your lunch on the breezy porch. This is a great day trip for anyone visiting the Moosehead Lake region and who wants to see Mt. Kineo up close rather than from a distance. JOHANNA S. Billings is a freelance writer/ photographer based in Greenville. She and her husband, Sean, run The Lily Cat Antiques in Monson.
The shuttle operates May 28 – October 11 and departs from the public boat launch in Rockwood. It runs every two hours in May and June, with the first departure at 9 a.m. and the final return trip leaving Kineo at 4:45 p.m. In July and August, it runs every hour with the first departure at 8 a.m. and the final return trip at 6:45 p.m. In September and October, it runs every hour from the first 8 a.m. departure to the final return trip at 4:45 p.m. The round-trip fee is $13 per person, cash only. Masks are required. For more information, call 207-534-9012 or find the full schedule on at tinyurl.com/px84tka
activitymaine.com 55
Photo by Joyce Love
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 that lies ahead. A warm community of quaint shops, local eateries and waterfront gardens welcome you in downtown Greenville, Maine.
large, pristine forests provide excellent cover for deer, bear, and small game and make it an outstanding hunting region. Here guests at Maynard’s will find a real pearl in the North Woods. Maynard’s in Maine can be reached for addition information by phone
Guide Outposts are plentiful
is where you will find Mount
fishing charters depart daily
207-534-7703 or on the web
and can provide you with a
Kineo State Park which is
at Gray Ghost Camps. A sunset
at: MAYNARDSINMAINE.COM
northern exposure adventure
accessible only by boat.
sail and an evening spent
of a lifetime. Moose safaris
Shuttle transportation can
around the campfire is the
unique combination of a large
are best enjoyed by canoe
be purchased for a fee at the
perfect way to end any day on
sporting goods store with a
and NorthEast Guide Service
Kineo Docks. A beginner hike
Moosehead Lake.
complete super market and
can provide you with the
will lead you the fire tower at
For 100 years, Maynard’s
experience, knowledge
the summit of Mount Kineo,
In Maine has provided their
stop location offers a wide
and perfect setting for an
giving you a 360-degree
guests with outstanding
range of name brand gear
authentic Maine wildlife
panoramic view of the entire
wilderness experiences
and apparel, hunting and
tour or whitewater rafting
lake. Mount Kineo is also
in addition to excellent
fishing licenses for residents
trip along the rapids of the
home to one of the most
bungalow-style cabin
and non-residents, firearms,
Penobscot & Kennebec Rivers.
historic and scenic nine-hole
accommodations and great
fishing poles, and extensive
Fly fishermen of all ages and
golf courses in all of New
dining with wholesome
outdoor supplies. Check
abilities can also take to the
England.
fresh farm foods prepared to
out the vast clothing and
perfection. The Moosehead
shoe departments featuring
water. Wading, drift boat
A short walk across
Indian Hill Trading Post is a
liquor department. This one-
or inflatable raft, Wilson’s On
the carriage trails leads
area offers outstanding
Dansko, Muck, Merrill, Keen,
Moosehead Lake can show you
you to Pebble Beach, the
landlocked salmon, trout,
Carhartt, Marmot, Patagonia
what they do best in the cool
most beautiful beach on
and togue fishing. Recently,
and more. From groceries to
headwaters of the Kennebec
Moosehead. Pebble Beach sits
Billy Maynard landed a 29.67
gear, Indian Hill Trading
River and Indian Pond.
under the 750-foot flint cliffs
lb togue on Moosehead
Post has everything you need,
of Mount Kineo. A rope swing
Lake measuring 41” long.
including 24-hour Irving
west side, lies the town
and smooth stones that you
His huge catch beats the
gasoline and diesel as well as
of Rockwood, the heart of
cannot find anywhere else set
old Moosehead Lake record
propane refilling daily.
Moosehead Moosehead
this beach apart from them
set in 1961 of a 28-pound
Lake’s Rockwood location
all. Private sailing and lake
12-ounce togue. The area’s
Opposite Kokadjo on the
56 summer / fall | 2021
GREENVILLE
outdoor writers & photographers wanted Email content@activitymaine.com with ideas or content!
MOOSEHEAD HISTORICAL Society & Museums
ROCKWOOD
Celebrating 102 Years of Maynard’s in Maine P.O. Box 220 SFG, Rockwood, ME 04478 207-534-7703 For more information: www.maynardsinmaine.com Find us on Facebook
activitymaine.com 57
a Hidden Gem
MILLINOCKET M
ILLINOCKET HAS SOMETHING FOR
EVERYONE. Big recreation, big woods, big mountains, big trails, and big adventures.
Whether hiking Mt. Katahdin, whitewater rafting, fishing, camping, canoeing, birding or taking a moose tour, there is something for everyone. Businesses persevered
how entrancing local art can be
during the difficult economic
when meticulously displayed.
downturn suffered with the
Her watercolors are exemplary.
closing of its paper mills in
Gracie’s Aunt's Emporium is
2008 and 2014. The North Light
a place to definitely check
Gallery, the Good Samaritan Thrift
out when you're in the
Store, and Moose Prints (check
Millinocket area, even if it's
out their stunning wildlife
just to peek around. This
photographs) are all on Central
unique store is a montage
Street. Anita Mueller and her
of everything from home
partner, Mark Picard, conduct
décor to jewelry, second-hand
photography workshops during
clothing for the whole family,
moose and foliage seasons.
and even some antiques.
Marsha Donahue’s North Light Gallery is a stellar example of
If you are looking for accommodations with a lot
Resale Clothing, Antiques, Gifts, Tux Rentals Sterling Silver & Costume Jewelry, Bella Ryann Bracelets (207) 723-6006 • Email jpkp97@gmail.com Hours: Mon–Fri 10–4 & Sat 10–2 Kelly Plourde, 555 Central Street, Millinocket, ME 04462
• Large Heated Pool, Exercise, Game and Play Area, Free Internet, WiFi, Local Calls, Cable, and Business Center • FREE Continental Breakfast • Motorcycle Friendly • Large Free Trailer Parking Area
740 Central Street, Millinocket, ME 04462 1-877-902-4555 • 207-723-4555 58 summer / fall | 2021
of amenities, the Katahdin Inn
the perfect way to relax in
into remote spots in Northern
in the scenery with a cocktail,
& Suites has you covered with
their heated pool.
Maine. He is also available to
there is something for every
provide scenic guided tours
member of the family. All
large heated pool, hot tub,
For visitors to the region
exercise, game and play area,
who would enjoy checking
of the region. You can contact
that fun while helping this
plus a business center for
out a remote lake or pond
Katahdin Air at: 1-866-359-
great town, makes heading for
those working during travel.
for camping and fishing,
6246 or FLY@KATAHDINAIR.COM
Millinocket a very rewarding
When your adventurous
Katahdin Air Service is ready
and worthwhile trip!
Whether hiking Mt. Katahdin,
day is done the great
to provide for your special
whitewater rafting, camping,
accommodations at the
needs. Pilot Jim Strang has
kayaking, swimming, fishing,
Katahdin Inn & Suites provide
decades of experience flying
taking a moose tour, or taking
T
he 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
Gateway to the Highlands
Museum and The Penobscot Theatre. Each month during the summer season numerous events are featured including Maine’s State Fair and the Annual Folk Festival.
Local Service, National Support I’m right around the corner, with servicing centers all over the country, to help you with all of your new purchase and refinance needs. VIRTUAL REALITY GAMING
Bangor Fun Plex is the largest family entertainment center in Maine. With more than 30,000 square feet of fun, whether rain or shine, you’re sure to find something to please everyone in the family. Also, from mid June - Labor Day, they will have seven inflatable water slides for kids of all ages and a kiddie pool for those under two. Look for them in the far end of the parking lot, near the highway. Perfect for those hot days! Bangor Fun Plex also hosts parties and field trips. So grab your Fun Plex card today and use it for admission to Playland, movies, or VR gaming, the arcade and the concession area. Visit us online: BANGORFUNPLEX.COM
GREAT CONTENT We feature 100% locally-sourced content. So email subscribe@activitymaine.com with your ideas!
I proudly serve: First-Time Home Buyers Move-Up Buyers Downsizers Real Estate Investors
Call me and
Experience Extraordinary.
RaeAnn Rice | NMLS #419094
Senior Loan Officer, Retail Lending (207) 974-8996 rrice@cmgfi.com
189A State St. Bangor, ME 04401 BRANCH NMLS# 1821788
© 2019 CMG Financial, All Rights Reserved. CMG Financial is a registered trade name of CMG Mortgage, Inc., NMLS# 1820 in most, but not all states. CMG Mortgage, Inc. is an equal opportunity lender. To verify our complete list of state licenses, please visit www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Rae Ann Rice, Senior Loan Officer with CMG FINANCIAL’s Bangor Office has been assisting folks for a decade through the process of purchasing or refinancing of their home. Her professional experience, compassion and extraordinary work ethic will turn your need into a reality. You can connect with Rae Ann by Tel. (207) 974-8996 or by E-mail: rrice@cmgfi.com
activitymaine.com 59
MIDCOAST maine PHOTO BY 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,
by foot, bike, or sea kayak.
is so much to do. The sea air
Expect quiet roads, gentle
will whet your appetite as
rolling hills and secluded
you realize this is the way life
beaches. View a sunrise on
should be. .
the Bay. Eat fresh eggs from a
picture-perfect fishing villages, historic forts and
local farm. Watch bald eagles,
lighthouses, seaside resorts and bustling harbor
ospreys, and terns along the
towns all comprise this region.
coast. Explore the prehistoric oyster shell mounds along
Fishing and ship building
Maine-built fishing vessel still
river beds. See the harbor
sustained the area for
afloat. Explore the buildings
seals next to Fort Popham.
centuries. You can easily
of the Percy & Small Shipyard,
Browse through an antique
delve into Maine’s maritime
the country’s last surviving
shop.
past that’s enhanced by a visit
shipyard where large sailing
Go on a puffin tour, whale
to the Maine Maritime Museum.
vessels were built. And don’t
watch, or sport fishing trip.
miss Into the Lantern: A
Purchase art directly from an
is located on a 20-acre
Lighthouse Experience, a
artisan. Catch a ferry to one
waterfront campus in historic
one-of-a-kind immersive
of the islands or hike Mount
Bath, the “City of Ships,” just
exhibit that recreates the
Battie in the Camden Hills.
20 minutes from Freeport; 1
sensation of standing high
Take an afternoon cruise on a
mile off of Route 1. We offer
atop a lighthouse through
two-masted schooner. Stroll
daily lighthouse and nature
180-degree video projections.
through the Coastal Maine
cruises, trolley tours, indoor
For more information, visit
Botanical Gardens, where
and outdoor galleries, lots of
MAINEMARITIMEMUSEUM.ORG or call
there are always interesting
hands-on family fun, a pirate
207-443-1316.
textures, shapes, and colors to
Maine Maritime Museum
playship, lobster exhibit, and
Enjoy cool summer breezes
more. Sail aboard the 1906
and vistas of sparkling blue
schooner Mary E, the oldest
water as you explore the area
60 summer / fall | 2021
be seen from the many trails. Life in the Midcoast operates at a slower pace and yet there
32nd Annual Sock Hop at Fat Boy Drive In AUGUST 28, 2021 Come enjoy a night of '60s music along with '60s prices on a limited menu. Car show and a dance contest with prizes to be won! Must be 21 or older to attend. All proceeds will be donated to Brunswick, Bath, and SAD 75 School Systems. For tickets and event info visit: Fat Boy Drive In on Facebook and Instagram.
MIDCOAST MAINE WISCASSET
BRUNSWICK
rses Over 70 Obstacles on TworCou Tag Arenas
9 Zip Lines & 4 Outdoor Tactical Lase
MONKEY C MONKEY DO - 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, outwit, outmaneuver, and outlast your opponents. The newest infrared technology weaponry allows the lasers to work outdoors in the daytime and the guns are WiFi and Bluetooth capable. This is Maine’s first and ONLY dedicated outdoor laser tag venue! It plays like “paintball” but without the “hurt.” Gorilla Tactics is NOT your “bang-bang shoot ‘em up glow in the dark laser tag!” Strategic “missions” are carried out and may the best team win! Experience multiple games, multiple missions, and multiple hours of adrenalized fun for those of us who would like to sense “danger” a little closer to the ground. Call 207-882-6861 for prices and availability.
BATH
“THIS IS WHAT WE CAME TO MAINE FOR.” MAINE MARITIME MUSEUM Bath, Maine • 207-443-1316 • www.MaineMaritimeMuseum.org
activitymaine.com 61
Discover
BOOTHBAY Harbor
An Unforgettable Maine Experience
BURNT ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE
ABOVE Summertime harbor tour aboard Balmy Days II PHOTO BY MICHAEL LEONARD
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
PEMAQUID / NEW HARBOR May & October by Reservation
SEA ACRES MOTEL www.seaacrescottages.com
Family Atmosphere
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!
DAMARISCOTTA 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
207-563-5202 • www.lakepemaquid.com 62 summer / fall | 2021
ACADIA & Downeast
Go climb a rock! A
Photos courtesy of Acadia Mountain Guides 207-866-7562
CADIA MOUNTAIN GUIDES CLIMBING SCHOOL
providing great instruction.
CLIMBING & ADVENTURE CAMPS
Voted #1 family activity in Maine and rated the #1
They are accredited by
Since 2001, Acadia Mountain
activity in Bar Harbor every year since 2014 on Trip
the American Mountain
Guides Climbing School
Advisor. Featured by Outside Magazine, National Geographic
Guides Association and
has offered summer camps
Adventure Magazine, Bill Green’s Maine Outdoors, CBS, The Travel
the Professional Climbing
to youth 9-18. All camps
Channel, and many more. Meet the guides and experience the
Instructors Association.
encourage self-discovery,
AMGCS difference.
They have been under the
responsibility, fitness, and
same ownership since
fun! The outdoors is a great
CAN I DO IT? Can my family do
an extreme sport. Professional
opening in 1993. AMG is led
classroom and ideal for
it? Virtually anyone can rock
guides focus on minimizing
by internationally-licensed
teaching decision-making,
climb. The guides at Acadia
your risks and each year,
IFMGA guide Jon Tierney. Jon
personal confidence, and
Mountain Guides say: “If you
thousands of people climb
is one of 138 U.S. guides to
teamwork, while learning
want to experience it, there
safely for the first time.
achieve the IFMGA award,
new skills and having a
are climbs for all ages and
Acadia Mountain Guides
signifying the pinnacle of
blast. AMGCS was one of the
abilities in the park!” They
Climbing School outfits
achievement for guides. The
first climbing schools in the
regularly climb with clients
you with all needed safety
guides who work for Jon say
nation to offer specialized
from children to folks in their
equipment, such as helmets
he has been at the forefront of
rock climbing camps staffed
eighties. It’s a great activity
and harnesses, and provides
guide education for more than
by certified instructors and
for an individual, couples,
you with expert instruction,
two decades. They appreciate
guides in a summer camp
families, or groups and
guiding you every step of the
his mentorship, attention to
format. Have all the fun and
requires only a moderate level
way, so you can focus on the
detail, and desire to constantly
excitement of summer camp
of fitness.
fun.
improve the delivery and
with the reassurance of
safety of climbing instruction.
professional leadership!
IS IT SAFE? Just like driving
WHO SHOULD I CLIMB WITH? In
a car, rock climbing carries
Maine, Acadia Mountain
some level of risk, but is not
Guides has a long history of
You will too!
activitymaine.com 63
ACADIA & DOWNEAST
PHOTO BY MICHAEL LEONARD
Book Your Trip Today!
www.downeastwindjammer.com 64 summer / fall | 2021
Ride the Trolley and let the local guides amuse and inform you. Fully narrated tours of Acadia National Park are offered daily. Also, enjoy a fully narrated tour of Bar Harbor For departures and tickets visit olistrolley.com, 207-288-9899, 1 West Street – Oli’s Trolley Shop or 55 West Street – Oli’s Trolley Station
ACADIA & DOWNEAST
Photo courtesy of Acadia Mountain Guides 207-866-7562
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
Jason A. Smith Broker/Owner 207-263-9187 Patricia Morris Broker 207-271-7988 Jenna Joeckel Associate Broker 207-263-7793 Jennifer Wendt Broker 207-263-7447 Ashley West Sales Agent 207-598-8278 Jeanine Heald Sales Agent 207-479-0306 Email: INFO@POINTEASTRE.COM Website: WWW.POINTSEASTRE.COM
Located in beautiful Down East Maine, Down East Community Hospital and Calais Community Hospital, focus on bringing improved access and quality health care services to those who live in and visit Washington County. Our family practitioners provide continuing, personalized comprehensive care for individuals of all ages. Practitioners at Calais Community Medical Services in Calais, Down East Community Family Practice in Machias, Arnold Memorial Medical Center in Jonesport, and Milbridge Medical Center in Milbridge are accepting new patients. If you are looking for a family practice provider to take care of you and your loved ones, call today and begin your relationship with your new provider. CALAIS 207-454-8195 MACHIAS 207-255-4567 JONESPORT 207-497-5614 MILBRIDGE 207-546-2391
activitymaine.com 65
Birding
101 Story & Photos by: JOYCE LOVE
Bird watching, or birding, can provide some wonderful incidental benefits. Taking in the fresh air, getting some light exercise, and improving your mood are reasons most people take up this hobby.
Indigo Bunting
Black-capped Chickadee
Cardinal Yellow-throated Warbler
66 summer / fall | 2021
Cedar Waxwing
Yellow Warbler
Bird watching is a four-season event in Maine. In the spring, look for the colorful Warblers that come through at ponds and small lakes around Maine. Summer is a good time to look for Osprey and Eagles that grace much of the shoreline and inland lakes. In the fall, some migratory birds make a return as they fly south and in the winter you might be lucky enough to see a Snowy Owl. There are some birds that can be seen all year long such as Cardinals, Blue Jays, Sparrows, various gulls, and of course, the Maine State bird, the Blacked-capped Chickadee. Bird watching, or birding, can provide some wonderful, incidental benefits to be appreciated when outdoors. Taking in the fresh air, getting some light exercise, and improving your mood are the reasons most people take up this hobby. Plus it's a wonderful activity for all ages, especially for children who may otherwise be indoors and too plugged in or less inclined to go outside to enjoy the wonderful gift of nature. In fact, a good place to start might be right in your own backyard. For some people a birding "Life List" acts like a journal that consists of notes of different birds seen along with the dates and location. You can
Prothonotary Warbler
find these Life List books for sale at your local bird supply store, bookstore, or online. It is also helpful to have an illustrated birding field guide that will help to identify each species of bird you see. Some birders become familiar with the sounds of birds and this is called "Birding by Ear." Some birds can be rather chatty, while others may only offer a conservative quiet peep. A free app worth installing in your smart phone is BirdNET that will record, analyze and then show you what bird made the call. Another free app to checkout is called Merlin, hosted by the Cornell Lab. This app has downloadable data for different regions of the country and you are able to look up and view images of birds and play actual sounds of more than 6,000 species. Photography is a perfect companion to Birding and many people share a serious combined interest. Capturing the images of birds you have seen allows you to share them with others on social media pages dedicated to birding. So, grab your binoculars, pick up a field guide, download a free app, take your camera and go out and enjoy the wonders of nature.
Bluebird
Here are some key resources to help you get started with becoming a birder. • Ebird.org is a site where you can explore current birding hot spots and species to help you know where to find the birds you’re interested in seeing. • Your local Audubon Society is a great resource. You can join in on bird walks with an Audubon guide where you can meet people that enjoy birding as well. • Mainly Birds is an active group on Facebook that I help administrate, where anything from the outdoors is welcome. This is where you will find friendly people to help you with bird identification and more. I have met many photographers in different states and love seeing their photographs. • Maine.gov/ifw is where you can find the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. This is also a great resource where there are links to learn about different species of birds and where to find them throughout the state.
Joyce Love has been a wildlife and landscape photographer for over 30 years. In addition, she has become an avid birder. Her love for photography and birds create a perfect combination for this hobby. She currently resides in North Yarmouth and is self-employed.
activitymaine.com 67
ACADIA & DOWNEAST EASTPORT
MACHIAS
The University of Maine at Machias is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.
Study and build skills amid the coves, rivers, lakes, and forests near Maine’s coastal university. UMM’s Recreation and Tourism Management Program is accredited by COAPRT.
Nestled in the heart of Machias Valley and surrounded by miles of pristine forest and wild coastline, this small-town university offers big-time opportunities for college students who want to get their hands dirty and learn through experience in the wilderness. UMM students earn credit while they canoe, kayak, sail, hike the backcountry, and learn to navigate with a map and compass -- all while gaining essential leadership skills and working closely with faculty and peers. They also develop work experience with the university’s many community partners, such as land trusts, conservation groups, and experiential education programs.
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.
LUBEC
“I turned my UMM degree into the job of my dreams,” says Matthew Cole, now a full-time conservation educator at University of Maine’s 4H Camp at Bryant Pond. “The program, like all UMM degrees, requires students to work as interns in the field. I worked at the camp seasonally as a student.” “This degree prepares students for a wide variety of careers,” says program coordinator Karen Beeftink. “Our graduates can work as game wardens, adventure or interpretive guides, experiential educators, backcountry rangers, and more. We offer numerous specialized certifications to give students a competitive edge in the job market.”
Monica’s Chocolates is a 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.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT MACHIAS
68 summer / fall | 2021
farmington
TheNaturalFit
Get your outdoors on.
A college where you can combine academics with the active outdoor lifestyle — that’s the University of Maine at Farmington. Smack in the middle of the best hiking, kayaking, mt. biking, camping, rafting and canoeing in the northeast. Near Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Maine Huts & Trails and the Appalachian Trail. Our Outdoor Rec Business Administration major, Alpine Operations Certificate, plus our Mainely Outdoors adventure program offer exciting, real-world outdoor experiences and valuable professional contacts in the outdoor recreation & skiing industry. Visit us and see why Farmington is the natural fit.
farmington.edu A proud partner of Maine Outdoor Brands