"The blend of tradition and sheer competence achieved by the Conovers is startling and probably unique in Maine guiding today."

John March, Audubon

Our Philosophy

Since 1980 Alexandra and Garrett have been guiding wilderness trips as North Woods Ways. In that time, we have enjoyed the good fortune of traveling with a great many wonderful people. It seems that these sorts of outings attract the curious, the passionate, the interested and interesting. As our culture becomes ever more cluttered with the abstractions of "virtual" experiences, and the invasiveness of cell-phones, laptops, and satellite linkages, sojourns in the real world gain resonance and impact.

Over the years such resonance has attracted journalists from over forty regional, national and international magazines. Several books have profiled North Woods Ways, we've written three of our own, and we have appeared in nine television productions.

Engagement with the natural world, with a small community of fellow travellers balances the estrangement fostered by our usual surroundings. Traditional trips upon the waterways allow for grace, thoughtfulness, and a pace that favors observation and connection.

North Woods Ways trips take place in the wildest areas remaining in the Northeast. Participants have the opportunity to observe and learn many of the finer skills of comfortable outdoor living and travel.

Beginning and experienced outdoor people are encouraged to participate in these trips. Your guides, Garrett and Alexandra, and at times an apprentice, ensure that each trip is comfortable with plenty of time for the enjoyment of each individual's experience.

Through experience, we have learned that the traditional means of travel we employ - from wood/canvas canoes, handmade paddles of ash and the spruce setting poles used in navigating shallow waters to ash/babiche snowshoes and handcrafted wood toboggans and lightweight heated winter wall tents - evoke regular interest among our guests. In an age given to the use of ever higher technology, we have chosen to employ, where possible, the more efficient and reliable materials developed by generations of woods travelers. The result, we believe, is not only more practical but safer and more enjoyable.

Although North Woods Ways occasionally takes larger parties, we work best with groups of six in addition to the guides. The small group size ensures a quality experience for all, maximizes the potential for wildlife sightings, and ensures thorough attention to individual interests. At the same time, impact on campsites is reduced, and a small, wieldy and flexible group can respond more readily to the intrigue of each trip.