Inspired by a love of Maine and the outdoors, painter Jessica Ives records outdoor experiences—swimmers cutting across the water, a surfer bearing his board toward the waves, snowboarders resting on the slopes, a man casting a fly over a river.
Back in the late 1800s, summer people coming to Maine called themselves rusticators. But natives rusticated too, going “up to” camps on remote lakes like East Grand on the Canadian border.
People are drawn to Maine's whitewater rafting trips for the adventure and to be surrounded by nature. The river guides are key to the success of these expeditions, as the author learns on an eventful rafting trip.
Loons are a triple-threat in the bird world: they are stunning to look at, possess a supernatural voice, and are skilled predators of fish. Their presence on a lake means it is healthy.
The earliest Rangeley Lakes recreational establishments were fishing clubs, where members had access to rustic accommodations and to guides. Then came resort hotels. These offered a more genteel experience, but also focused on outdoor activities and appreciation of nature.
Shawn Grant sold his collection of vintage cars to buy an equally cool fleet of vintage boats. Today his Belgrade-based company is one of only a few places in the country where you can rent antique wooden boats for day trips.
Finding the perfect sailboat for lake use takes some thought, especially if you want something fast that won’t hit too many rocks, and has room for company.
While many people think of Kittery as outlet heaven, Maine’s southernmost town has a more charming historic side, with lovely old homes and a bustling downtown, centered around Wallingford Square.
