Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Maine Island Trail
Originally conceived as a sort of Appalachian Trail in the sea, the
Maine Island Trail is a network of more than 80 public and pri-
vately owned islands along a 300-mile stretch of Maine coast
open to recreational use. Some islands are as large as several
hundred acres, while others are basically bare ledges which can
be awash during storms. All state islands are open to use by the
public while privately owned trail islands are open to members of
the Maine Island Trail Association in exchange for members
sticking to a low-impact use ethic. Users can arrive by kayak,
sailboat, or motorized craft.
Members support the work of the association through dues and
also through volunteer efforts to keep popular campsites clean
and damage free.
Contact the Maine Island Trail Association to learn more.
PO Box C, Rockland 04841.
596-6456.
Weather conditions can vary greatly depending on one's location. Day-
light fades quickly in autumn, so make sure you have plenty of time to
complete your paddle before dark. It doesn't hurt to put a small flashlight
in your duffle along with other essentials.
Especially during summer, afternoon thunderstorms can whip the water
into a maelstrom that is impossible to navigate, even for seasoned
paddlers. Most thunderstorms brew up out of the west or north and head
east or southeast. Watch for black clouds gathering on horizon and pay
particular attention to those that rise suddenly behind nearby moun-
tains.
Lightning is often more of a danger to small boats than wind. Get off the
water, and stay away from taller trees. Avoid seeking shelter in caves,
bunkers or near tree roots that can conduct lightning strikes under-
ground from trees. Several years ago some boaters sought refuge from a
thunderstorm in a World War II-era blockhouse on an island off Portland.
Lightning hit nearby, traveled through the ground, and one person was
killed.
Before setting out on any paddle trip check the weather forecast and
watch for any deviation from the prediction. When in doubt, hole up, ride
it out... and live to tell about it.
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