Outdoor Activities
Although no experience is necessary, Acadia Lifelines’ outdoor activities are intended to be fun, exhilarating and somewhat challenging. Activities vary from year to year according to the project location and staffing. 2009 in Acadia offers:
Hiking
Acadia offers 120 miles of maintained hiking trails. Most peaks offer an amazing 360 degree panoramic view of forest, mountain and ocean. Trails range in degree of difficulty from gradually sloping paths to steep climbs aided by iron rungs driven into the rock.
Biking
Outdoor enthusiasts can bike all over the island, but for those who want a glimpse of untouched natural Acadia, there are 57 miles of wide winding carriage roads that traverse the park. John D. Rockefeller constructed the carriage road system between 1917 and 1933, as a quiet alternative to the automobile roads which opened to vehicles in 1913. Here you can peddle through the mountains, overlook the ocean and ride along serene lake shores. Stop by cool waterfalls or rest in the shade of one of Rockefeller’s hand carved granite bridges. The carriage trails are a biker’s retreat.
Rock Climbing
Enjoy some of Acadia’s most spectacular views from the side of the island’s granite walls. Some of the most popular climbs are at Otter Cliffs hanging over the ocean, and the dozens of climbs along the South Wall of the Precipice. For a workout without ropes, try some of the fun bouldering sites.
Whitewater Rafting
We will be traveling inland a few miles to raft the Kennebec River which provides some exciting whitewater and a beautiful landscape. You will have the opportunity to swim through some rapids and really get wet. This trip will also be our overnight camping experience which will definitely be a time of bonding.