Exploring Maine's Wilderness Summer Outdoor Programs
This summer program, designed for middle and high school students, includes outdoor expeditions to Maine mountains and State parks to explore nature, acquire essential outdoor skills, and learn leadership and team-building skills. Students in the grades 10-12 program can earn an ELA credit through real-world experiences and outdoor exploration. Certified outdoor educators lead the program, and students will have free access to any outdoor gear necessary for the activities listed, and transportation will be provided.
Grades 10-12
For New Mainers and disadvantaged students, grades 10-12, from Biddeford High School, Alternative Pathways Center, and Biddeford Regional Center of Technology
Program Details:
8 weeks (June 10-July 31, 2024)
1 day per week
8-10 hours per day (7 AM Start)
1 overnight adventure :
Various scenic trails and wilderness areas across Maine
ELA Credit - Evaluation details linked here
Contact Information:
Tabatha Frawkins
TFrawkins@biddefordschools.me
Outdoor Expeditions (Subject to Change):
Bradbury Mountain: Students will explore the scenic trails of Bradbury Mountain State Park, located in Pownal, Maine. Hiking to the summit of Bradbury Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to learn about the park's unique ecosystem.
Mount Agamenticus: Participants will venture to Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine, where they will hike trails that offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. This experience will provide insight into the region's natural history and geology.
Table Rock, Grafton Notch State Park: Students will hike the Table Rock Trail in Grafton Notch State Park, where they'll encounter breathtaking views of the Mahoosuc Mountain Range and the Androscoggin River valley. This hike offers an opportunity to learn about the geology, flora, and fauna of the region while enjoying the beauty of Maine's wilderness.
Wolfe's Neck State Park: Located near Freeport, Maine, Wolfe's Neck State Park offers scenic coastal trails with views of Casco Bay and surrounding islands. Students will explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes, woodlands, and rocky shores.
Tumbledown Mountain: Located in Farmington, Maine, Tumbledown Mountain offers challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views from the summit. Students will navigate rugged terrain and enjoy the pristine wilderness of western Maine while exploring this iconic peak.
By exploring these diverse destinations across Maine, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the state's natural landscapes and ecosystems, while honing their outdoor skills and knowledge.
Grades 7-9
For New Mainers and disadvantaged students, grades 7-9, from Biddeford Middle School and Saco Middle School
Program Details:
7 Weeks (June 21-August 2, 2024)
2 days per week (Monday & Thursday)
4 hours per day (12-4 PM)
Various scenic trails and wilderness areas across Maine
Trails, waterways, and natural areas in Southern Maine
Contact & Registration Information:
Justin-Rose Desper
JDesper@biddefordschools.me
Outdoor Expeditions (Subject to Change):
Clifford Park: Students will explore the trails of this local forested park located in Biddeford, Maine. Hidden in the park is a waterfall, and many natural wonders that students may not know are practically right in their backyards.
Kennebunk Conservation Trust: Students will walk the trails and navigate a stone labyrinth at this conservation site in Kennebunkport, Maine. This site has an orienteering course where students will learn useful compass and map skills.
Wells Reserve: Located at Laudholm Farm in Wells, Maine, this site offers a series of trails and boardwalks that lead to Laudholm beach.
Saco River: Running between Biddeford and Saco, the Saco River has been an important part of our local history and culture, providing power to the mills and sending ships that were built upstream out to sea. Participants will have the opportunity to canoe the river while learning teamwork and communications skills.
Mount Agamenticus: Students will hike to the summit of this small mountain in York, Maine. The summit offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding area, and more on a clear day.
By exploring these diverse destinations across Maine, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the state's natural landscapes and ecosystems while honing their outdoor skills and knowledge.
Funding Source
The Southern Maine Outdoor Leadership Program received $135,045 from the Maine Department of Education's Maine Outdoor Learning Initiative to cover the cost of providing these programs.
American Rescue Plan Act GEER, Reverted EANS Funding received from the USDOE supports the implementation of this project. The project has an award totaling $6.6 million, of which 100% is federally funded and directly attributed to project implementation. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by the USDOE or the U.S. Government.