If it’s fun and adventure you’re after, Maine is the right place to live. Between the potential for exploring new coastal areas to climbing higher than you imagined in our state parks, there really is something for every type of adventurer. Read on and start making your own adventure bucket-list!
1. America’s Mattress Race, Shawnee Peak (Hurry, it's this Saturday, March 12th, 2016!)
If you like your adventure in the form of wacky activities, you'll want to check out this weekend's mattress race at Shawnee Peak, THIS WEEKEND! On Saturday, March 12th, the otherwise serene slopes of Shawnee will get a bit crazy when people hop aboard mattresses to compete in races down the Main Slope. The fastest mattress will win a brand new king size mattress, but there will also be prizes awarded for the most elaborately decorated sled-tress. You'll need to pay $5 and purchase a lift ticket to participate. Register from 9am to 12pm and be ready to race at 1pm.
2. Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School, Bar Harbor
You've heard about climbing and seen people do it, but was never quite sure how to get started? Check out AMGC, the only accredited climbing school in Maine! The school has been around since 1993 and offers a selection of beginner through advanced rock and ice climbing programs in areas of Acadia National Park, Camden, Clifton and Katahdin. You can already begin reserving for summer climbs, so
check out their website to make sure you don't miss out on adding this to your bucket list!
3. The LimeRock Inn, Rockland
Not all adventures have to take place outside. With our creepy stories and haunted places, some of the most challenging Maine experiences happen within four walls. Try the LimeRock Inn in Rockland if you're looking for an adventure of this variety. Originally owned by a local Rockland doctor, the LimeRock is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former patients. They can be heard and seen going up and down the stairwell and spending quality time in the parlor. Visit them at: 96 Limerock Street, Rockland / 207-594-2257
4. Mount Katahdin, Baxter State Park
If you're an adventurer in Maine and haven't tackled the summit of Katahdin, this should be a priority! Located in Baxter State Park, Katahdin's name was given by the Penobscot Indians and means "The Greatest Mountain." It serves at the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, but can be hiked on it's own in about 10 hours. Be prepared for some technical areas and always climb safely!
5. Maine Huts and Trails, Various Locations in Maine's Western Mountains
Maine Huts & Trails is a nonprofit organization with a mission to create and operate a world-class system of backcountry trails and eco-lodges for people-powered recreation in Maine’s Western Mountain region. You're welcome to stop in during a hike for some hot soup, or reserve a place to stay in advance. But, don't let the word "hut" make you think you'll be roughing it. The food here is top-notch!
6. Rattlesnake Flume and Pool, Evans Notch
What makes this hidden gem so adventurous is that it's a bit hard to find. And, if you pair it with a hike up Blueberry Mountain you'll have a full day of exploring under your belt. Plan for a hot day of hiking Blueberry Mountain in Evans Notch and make sure you stop off at Rattlesnake Flume and Pond near the end. The crystal clear pool is located just off Stone House Trail. You'll see a marker showing you the way via a small detour.
7. International Cryptozoology Museum, Portland
This is perfect for those folks who like the idea of finding mythical creatures in the wilderness, but don't actually want to DO the finding. The world's only museum exploring the study of hidden or unknown animals such as Yetis, Bigfoot, Lake Monsters, and Sea Serpents, as well as hundreds of other yet-to-be-found animals (cryptids) is located right here in Maine. Makes sense considering all the Sasquatch sightings reported here.
8. Jump and Raft, Millinocket
Maybe you've skydived and maybe you've rafted, but have you ever done them together? Jump and Raft is the only place in the USA where you can book both - jump out of a plane from 11,000 feet the first day and then raft down Class V Penobscot the second! The location affords views of Katahdin and some of the best sunsets Maine has to offer. Book the "Jump and Raft" package and stay in the area overnight. This includes the jump, the raft and just about all the BBQ you can eat.
9. Coastal Trail, Lubec, Quoddy Head State Park
Half of the adventure with this trip is actually getting there. If you're not from the Northern parts of Maine, you may have never been to Lubec. But, take it from us... GO! Many feel Lubec and its surrounds are the true Maine. While we think that ALL of Maine is the true Maine, it's certainly worth creating your own opinion.
This rocky, steep hike will be more of a challenge, but comes with some awesome ocean views. Along the way you'll be able to see from the Quoddy Channel to the cliffs of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick Canada.
10. Moxie Falls, Somerset County
While Maine is full of incredible waterfalls, Moxie made this list because you can hike it, see it and THEN swim in it. And, well, we just love it and when we have a chance to include it in an article, we go for it! These falls are the highest in Maine and, arguably, the most well-known. Visit these as part of an easy 30 minute hike (longer and more difficult if you want to see the base) and feel free to swim if it's warm enough.
11. Our Ultimate Maine Waterfalls Roadtrip!
Not to pat ourselves on the back TOO hard, but we think this roadtrip is pretty adventurous. This 11 stop tour will take you to 8 different waterfalls, two incredible places to stuff your face and one of the best state parks in Maine.
Click here to check it out!
What’s on your adventure list? Which of these things have you done and loved? What about hated? Let us know on our Facebook page!
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