Frequently Asked Questions: Summer Canoe and Backpack Trips

Trips are led by at least 2 staff. 

Staff have years of outdoor, expedition experience under their belts. At least one staff member on each trip is a Registered Maine Guide.  All trip leaders are Wilderness First Responder and CPR certified. 

Food for expeditions will be wholesome and nutritious to give you plenty of energy to get through the day's activities.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner plus 2 snacks are provided each day.  A sample menu might include yogurt and granola or eggs and bacon for breakfast, cold cuts, cheese and hummus sandwiches for lunch, and burritos or chicken and vegetable stir fry with rice for dinner.  Meals are prepared either on a campfire, a cooking stove, or a combination of both. Dietary restrictions such as being vegetarian, gluten free, lactose intolerant or allergic to certain items can be accommodated with adequate notice. 

It is a common occurrence on trips to see moose, bald eagles, loons, otters, mink, beaver, various types of ducks and other waterfowl. On rare occasions, catching a glimpse of a black bear happens, but that's if we are lucky. 

Rain is an ever present possibility on trips, so quality rain gear tops and bottoms are essential. If weather is inclement, we typically continue with our daily plan and activities; however, safety is our top priority and revisions to our plan may occur if weather conditions are particularly challenging. We make sure to have good quality dry bags, tents with waterproof rain flies, and a large kitchen tarp to gather under while in camp. High winds are also possible on trips. We teach folks how to paddle in the wind; however, if wind conditions become too strong and affect travel, we may stay at camp longer or leave camp earlier to be safe. 

AMG provides all group equipment such as canoes, paddles, PFDs(personal flotation devices), poles, tarps, tents, stoves, cooking equipment, water filters, etc. Participants are expected to provide their own personal equipment and clothing such as sleeping bags, sleeping pads, water bottles, personal eating utensils, rain gear(tops and bottoms), water shoes, and appropriate clothing for wilderness travel. A comprehensive packing list will be sent to you well in advance of your trip. If you have any questions or are unsure about the suitability of your clothing or personal equipment, please do not hesitate to ask us. We want you to be comfortable and safe on the trip. 

We will meet you at either the Portland, ME or Bangor, ME airports if you fly, or at a pre-determined location if you are traveling by car. Portland also is accessible by train and bus. Transportation costs to and from the start of your trip are not included as part of the cost of the trip. We will pick you up at the airport, train/bus station, or at a pre-determined location with one of our vehicles and take you to the starting location for the trip. We will transport you from the ending location of the trip back to the airport or train/bus station.

We will have cell phones and an InReach satellite communication device in case of emergencies. We are familiar with Emergency Services and evacuation routes in the trip area, and can access them if necessary. 

Participants do not need to have canoeing, backpacking or camping experience. We will teach you everything you need to know. You should be in good, general health as the rigors of an extended outdoor expedition may challenge you. 

Bathroom facilities on canoeing or backpacking trips are usually outhouses at campsites. Biodegradable soap, toilet paper and hand sanitizer will be provided.  Personal hygiene is a priority, and we will teach you how to stay clean in the wilderness in an environmentally responsible manner. Swimming opportunities on canoeing trips abound!

Cell service is spotty or non-existent in most of the places we canoe or backpack. Cell and WiFi may be available on the way to or from our expeditions depending where we stop to get gas or food, or use the bathroom facilities. 

Participants help load and unload canoes, as well as help set up camp when we arrive, particularly their own tents. We welcome any help with setting up group facilities like the kitchen tarp, the kitchen area and gathering and kindling the fire. We will take point on cooking the meals, but feel free to pitch in. 

If you are excited to join us on a trip, please email us at info@adventuremaineguidesllc.com to begin the conversation. All necessary forms and paperwork will be sent to you well in advance of the trip.