Canoe Destinations

St. John River, Maine

May 7-14, 2008

The St. John begins as a small woodland stream, but as it winds northward becomes a large and dramatic river that has no equal in the Northeast. Canoe trips are fast-paced voyages which take place soon after ice out when the water is high and bird life and wild flowers are returning to the woods in abundance. The St. John has many easy rapids and two which can offer fairly technical runs. Previous river canoeing experience is recommended though not mandatory.

Allagash River, Maine

May 19-23 & June 30-July 4, 2008

The history, habitat and nature of the Allagash River trip reflect the best of Maine's canoe country. We run trips favoring off-season times to avoid the mid-July through early September crowding.

On the May trip we get to experience the full leafing out of spring before the bug season gets underway, dine on fresh fiddleheads, and have maximum encounters with returning birdlife and the rush of early flowers. In early July blackfly season is behind us and the splendor of early summer with its moose calves and baby deer is unfolding.

"The food was amazing - you should really write a North Woods Ways Cookbook!"

Jeff Porter, Wilmington, NC

Loon Lake - Reconnecting with Nature

July 9-13, 2008

Once upon a time, people understood the comings and goings of animals, where to look for certain plants for food or medicine, how to tell time by the stars, and the more subtle, advanced skills of communicating with the natural world. For five days we will hone our sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste, and other sensitivities to the world of nature. Guided through these exercises by a workshop leader, an energizing and somehow familiar world opens up. These tools help us reconnect and hone a personal relationship with nature, thereby inheriting time honored knowledge that is available to any human interested in their wild heritage.

Gero Island Family Camp out

July 18-22, 2008

The Gero Island Family Camp out centers on the glorious ledges and fine gravel beach sites of Gero Island at the north end of Chesuncook Lake. From any of the island sites explorations can head up the West Branch to Pine Stream, or ascend the lower reaches of Caucomgomoc Stream to visit the floating bogs and moosey meadowlands of Brandy Pond. It’s a splendid place to introduce young kids to the joys of wilderness canoe camping in a relaxed and unhurried way.

Gero Island Woods Skills

August 6-10, 2008

Have you ever wanted to take your family or friends canoe camping, but were not confident of your skills? We will teach you menu planning, campfire cookery, map and compass (yes, you still need this in the age of GPS technology), the North Woods paddle stroke, poling introduction, five basic knots, and rain/shade fly set-up. We can show you how to carry a canoe, solo, or tandem, how to tell time by the stars, read the weather, how to recognize certain plants for healing or eating, and identify birds by their songs. You'll also need to know how to identify and get the best firewood, so axe and saw use will be covered. It's time to get out canoe camping on your own-knowledgeably and with finesse!

Lobster Lake Exploration

July 27-31, 2008

This pristine lake lies in the heart of the Maine woods. We access this area via the famous Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail. On this five day campout, we will tent by sandy beaches and rare jackpines, and climb Lobster Mountain for outstanding views of Mt. Katahdin and the surrounding lakes and forests below. The cries of loons lull us to sleep and the mysterious barred owl calls and coyote songs fill the night air. Canoe handling, campfire cookery, and bird and plant identification are all skills we love to share. Swimming, and star gazing are a must.

West Branch Penobscot/ Chesuncook, Maine

August 17-21, 2008

The West Branch Penobscot and Chesuncook trip offers a combination of river and large lake travel through a portion of Maine woods which is rich in the history of logging, Thoreau's travels, and the Native Americans of Maine. The river is prime moose-viewing territory, and increasing numbers of bald eagles are regularly seen.

Highlights of this trip include traversing a portion of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and visiting remote and historic Chesuncook Village.

Thoreau's Maine Woods, Maine

August 31 - September 4,
September 9-13 &
Spetmber 29 - October 3 2008

In addition to paddling part of Thoreau's route on the West Branch of the Penobscot, and then traversing the sky-filled reach of Chesuncook Lake, the third night of the trip is spent at the Chesuncook Lake House. This historic wilderness inn at Chesuncook Village is located near the site of the eighty-foot-long cabin Thoreau stayed in. This trip will sample the best of Maine canoe camping, and the best of remote luxury in a north woods village. The September trips enjoy the fly fishing only season of the landlocked salmon run.