Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
you are hiking out and have extra, leave it behind for those coming along
next.
A Solar-Powered Privy
At Horn's Pond on Bigelow Mountain, the privy is solar powered!
Users cross a draw bridge to the throne tower and throw a hand-
ful of wood chips and peat moss down the hole after they go. Bins
in the bottom, which are rotated regularly and heated by the sun,
turn everything into a rich compost which is then used to fertilize
the surrounding forest.
In areas without outhouses officials advise digging or scuffing a six-inch-
deep cathole for the disposal of human waste. Make sure it is located at
least 100 feet back from any water source. Don't dig it too deep or it will
be located in mineral soils, which lack the bacteria and detritus feeders
needed to break down waste. After you are done, cover the hole.
While some experts urge people to pack out used toilet paper, I think
that's crazy. Toilet paper is biodegradable wood fiber. It will decay if prop-
erly buried with other waste.
Swimming
With more than 3,500 miles of coastline, thousands of lakes and ponds,
and miles and miles of rivers and streams, Maine has no shortage of
places to swim. Terrain and topography, however, conspire to limit the
number of really good spots. Prime swimming locations are listed in the
individual area chapters.
Swimming Safety
Most lake or ocean beaches maintained by the state have lifeguards dur-
ing the summer season. The same goes for Echo Lake and Sand Beach on
the ocean at Acadia National Park.
The rest of the time, however, swimmers are usually on their own. Below
are a few advisories that can make your swim safer.
Don't dive into water you have not checked first for depth and
obstructions.
