January 2006:

Sat., Jan. 7. Washington via Huntington Ravine's South Gully. Not for the beginner! Weather and snow conditions permitting, we'll travel in 4-person rope teams (maximum: two teams) through South Gully and across the Alpine Garden (after a brief self-arrest practice) to the Washington summit. Experience & comfort with above-treeline winter travel, steep snow climbing, avalanche terrain, and proper use of crampons & ice ax required. Full winter gear plus helmet & harness. L: Dave Langley (dlangleys@msn.com, 655-1244).

Sat., Jan. 7. Winter skills hike - Mt. Chocorua (3,500 ft.) via Champney Falls Trail. The hike will be adjusted for the ability of the group. Intended as a follow-up to the December 6 Winter Workshop but everyone is welcome. There will be learning opportunities for everyone with snowshoes, crampons and above tree line exposure (you chose your level) . Total elevation gain of 2,240 feet and 7.6 miles. Leaders: Joleen Rice 892-2685, Wayne Newton, 897-3072

Sat., Jan.7. Caribou Mtn. Moderate grades and pace on this 6.2 mile hike to open summit with spectacular views. Full winter gear required. Ls Claudette Deschene(946-7926 or claudett@prexar.com) and George Brown(585-2259 or gwbrown@tds.net) . Both phones before 9:00 please.

Sat., Jan. 7. Backcountry ski, moderate terrain, easy pace. Leaders using climbing skins. L Roy Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm. Cl Lorraine Hussey.

Sun., Jan. 8, Pleasant Mt. Snowshoe Hike. Leisurely snowshoe hike up Pleasant Mountain near Denmark,ME. Approximately 4 miles round trip. 1,600 foot elevation gain, slow to moderate pace. Good views at summit. Join us to enjoy the mountains on snow shoes. Leisurely hike with frequent stops to take pictures, snack and share experiences. Limit 8 hikers. Contact Jeanne Christie (207) 892-1008 jeanne.christie@aswm.org or Lawrence DeHof (207) 892-1008 ldehof@access4less.net 

Tues., Jan. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the March issue of AMC Outdoors.

Tues., Jan. 10. Navigation workshop. In coordination with Telstar Adult Education in Bethel. This workshop will be in a class room setting and will focus be on maps and guide books and practical field use of a compass and will include an over view of GPS. Bring your AMC maps and guide books and your compass. There will be a $5.00 per person charge which can be paid at the door or by calling 824-2780. Leader Bryan Courtois 282-3977 or Courtois@gwi.net

Wed., Jan. 11. Outings meeting at McDonalds in Freeport. We will be focusing on our goals for workshops and other special events for 2006. Come and help us plan some learning opportunities and fun events! Meeting starts at 7:00 PM. We promise to end the meeting at or before 8:30. Contact Joleen Rice (892-2685 before 9:00 p.m. or email jrice@verrilldana.com for more details.

Thurs., Jan. 12. XC ski, Hayes Copp ski trail, Pinkham Notch, NH. Easy terrain, easy pace, on ungroomed trails. L Lorraine Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm.

Sat., Jan. 14.. Winter Prep Hike 2. Acadia National Park. Beginning Winter hikers are welcome. We will discuss winter gear, techniques, and experiences while hiking 6-8 miles. Beautiful trails, great views. To register please contact L. Doug Keith 422-2064 (No calls after 9 please).

Fri., Sat, Sun., Jan. 20, 21 & 22. xc ski Acadia (will hike if no snow) weekend in B & B. Participants should be able to xc ski 15 + miles of hilly terrain per day. $50 per person for two nights and two breakfasts. Register with L Don Parker, PO Box 239, Steep Falls ME 04085; (207)642-4198; donp@pivot.net; CLs Jim Burnell & Jane Danielson.

Sat., Jan 21. Beginner Snowshoe. Join us for an easy paced snowshoe into the Sucker Brook Preserve in Evan's Notch. We will look for wildlife signs with Greater Lovell Land Trust Executive Director, Tom Henderson and learn more about this beautiful area. Weather permitting we will roast hot dogs and enjoy the views around Horseshoe Pond. Bring warm clothes and a smile! Call to register with L Dale Temm, home 207-883-5260 cell 207-233-4162; Co-L Cyndy Sheckley 207-883-5260. Call before 9 pm please.

Sat., Jan 21. Eisenhower. Are you working on that winter 4000 footer list? We aren't, so we may not make it to the top, but we would like to attempt Eisenhower via the Edmonds Path. Our plan is to do a loop via the Crawford Path and the Mt. Clinton Road. The hike will be about 10 miles so we need an early start. We plan to be hiking by 7:30am. For more details and to sign up call leaders Gail Lawley and Gerry Barnicle at 207-797-4627, before 9:00pm

Sat., Jan. 21. Mt. Monroe via Right Gully & Hillman Hiway. Join other experienced winter climbers who are comfortable on steep snow and with extended above-treeline travel. If avalanche & weather conditions permit, we'll enjoy an alpine day in Tuck's and on the Alpine Garden and we'll do some self-arrest drills on our approach & exit through the ravine. Alternate routes if required by conditions. Dave Langley (655-1244, dlangleys@msn.com)

Sat., Jan. 21. Old Speck 7.6 miles A 4000 ft. mountain without going above treeline. Winter gear required but trees shelter the trail most of the way. It could be icy if little snow. Great views from tower on top. Leaders Wayne Newton 897-3072 and Lewis Dow 890-8512 

Sun. Jan 22. Pot Luck. AMC members and others are invited to the Conservation Committee’s Pot Luck at Williston-West Church Fellowship Hall, 32 Thomas Street, Portland at 4 PM. Bryan Wentzell, AMC Northern Conservation Manager, will provide an update on Plum Creek’s development plan for the Moosehead Lake Region. Bryan will provide information about the proposal, the process that is in place to review and assess the plan and the issues that concern those who favor and oppose it. Please plan to attend this Pot Luck to become informed about this development plan for Northern Maine. Williston-West is located on 32 Thomas St. on the West End in Portland. For more information or directions please contact Alix Pratt at 233-9249 or alixandbob@earthlink.net or Peg Nation at 583-2720, mjnation11@earthlink.net.

Wed. Jan 25, Greenway Bike Slides - The Maine chapter meeting and potluck will be held at the South Portland Public Library at 482 Broadway, on Wednesday, January 25th from 6 to 9 pm. The slide show with music was originally created to give members of the East Coast Greenway Alliance a taste of what the historic First Tour of the ride was like, bicycling 2800 miles from Maine to Florida. Dave Wood will be available after the slide show to answer any questions.  Bring a favorite dish to share between 6 and 7 pm. The slide show will begin at 7:30 pm. Please join us for a wonderful evening.

Sat., Jan. 28. Pemetic Mountain. Hike in Acadia National Park. 5-6 miles. Beginning Winter hikers are welcome. This is a great mountain to learn the joys of winter hiking while enjoying fantastic views. To register please contact L. Doug Keith 422-2064 (No calls after 9 please).

Sat., Jan. 28. Pemi Ski Traverse. Enjoy other backcountry enthusiasts for a day on our skis as we travel along Zealand Road, on to Ethan Pond, then to either Thoreau Falls or Shoal Pond, and out to the Wilderness Trail. Experience with 20-mile plus days in winter is a must! Dave Langley (655-1244, dlangleys@msn.com)

February 2006:

Wed., Feb. 1. Deadline to submit trips for the March/April issue of Wilderness Matters.

Sat., Feb. 4. Backcountry ski, moderate terrain, easy pace. Leaders using climbing skins. L Roy Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm. CL Lorraine Hussey

Thurs., Feb. 9. XC ski, Lower Nanamocomuck ski trail, Kancamagus Highway, NH. Easy terrain, easy pace on ungroomed trails. L Lorraine Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm.

Fri., Feb. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the April issue of AMC Outdoors.

Sat. Feb. 11. Catherine and Caribou Mountain, Donnell Pond Public Reserve Unit. 8 miles. Thirty minutes from Ellsworth. Wonderful winter hiking in a wild and beautiful area. To register please contact L. Doug Keith 422-2064 (No calls after 9 please). 

Feb. 11 & 12. Snowfest 2006 Brownville/Greenville Maine. This event will feature the second annual 100 Mile Wilderness Sled Dog Race and workshops hosted by AMC trip leaders. A fuller description of this weekend can be found on another page in Wilderness Matters or go to http://home.gwi.net/amcmaine/main.htm for more information on this fun weekend. Workshops will include Bow-drill fire starting, knife sharpening, and maybe even a workshop on mushing! Check the web site for more details or contact Bryan Courtois at 282-3977 or Courtois@gwi.net.

Wed., Feb. 15. Round Table discussion on successful leading for current leaders, co-leaders, and others interested. We are all 'leaders-in-training' - some of us have little to no experience and some of us have extensive experience, but there is always something new to learn. Share your style and ideas on some common themes for creating enjoyable experiences for all participants at this Outings Committee meeting. McDonalds in Freeport. 7:00 PM. Contact Joleen Rice (892-2685, or dorio@gwi.net) for more details.

Sat., Feb. 4: Snowshoe hike beside Dan Hole Pond in Center Ossipee, NH, followed by hot soup. L. Alix Pratt (alixandbob@earthlink.net, 207-233-9249).

Sat, Feb 18. Evan's Notch Snowshoe. (Moved from Feb 4th) Post Valentine's Day Snowshoe to a beautiful view point in Evan's Notch. This is a bushwack thru open woods. No prior experience necessary, beginners welcome. This will be a 10 am to 3 pm type of day. Call for details. Leader Dale Temm 883-5260 prior to 9 pm please.

Sat., Feb. 18. Puzzle Mountain. 6 - 7 mile round trip at moderate pace up to 3,133 foot summit of Puzzle Mountain. Approximately 2,400 foot elevation gain. Great winter hike. Some good views. Be prepared to bring snowshoes and crampons or insteps to the trailhead. Leader: Lewis Dow 207-890-8512. Leader: Jennie Warner 207-229-1368. Please call before 9:00 PM.

Sat., Feb. 25. Sargent Mountain, Acadia National Park. 6-8 miles. Challenging and rewarding trip to this grand peak! To register please contact L. Doug Keith 422-2064 (No calls after 9 please). 

Sat., Feb. 25: Galehead and Garfield Ridge Peak. Snowshoe hike to NH 4000 footer by the Gale River Trail and short off trail bushwhack to a NH 100 highest. About 13 mi. Could be a long day depending on conditions. CL Sonny Martineau, 282-6396 and Dennis Crispo, 978-858-0394, highpt@cliffhanger.com

March 2006:

Sat., March 4. Backcountry ski, moderate terrain, easy pace. Leaders using climbing skins. L Roy Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm. CL Lorraine Hussey

Sat., March 4. Sugarloaf Mtn. App. 8 mile RT, 2,550 ft of elev. from ski resort to summit of Maine's second highest mountain. Moderate to steep terrain. Full winter gear required. L: George Brown gwbrown@tds.net CL: Peter Broderick mesa8@aol.com

Thurs. March 9. XC ski, Evans Notch on RT 113 snowmobile trail. Easy pace, easy terrain. About six miles total distance. L Lorraine Hussey 799-7494 before 9pm.
Fri., March. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the May issue of AMC Outdoors.

Thurs. March 16. Please join us as AMC members Jane Gibbons and Toni Reese present a slide show about their recent trip to Tanzania. The excursion included a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro, a Serengeti Safari, and a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater.  The presentation will take place at the South Portland Public Library on March 16, at 6:30 p.m.. The library is located at 428 Broadway in South Portland. For more information please contact Peter Tousignant at 207-229-3557 or petetousignant@hotmail.com. The program will include a potluck supper before the slide presentation. Please bring a dish to share with others who will be attending.

Sat., March 18. Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park. 8 miles. Cadillac's South Ridge Trail provides a real "big" mountain experience in the winter. To register please contact L. Doug Keith.

Sat. - Sun., Mar 11&12 - Annual Winter Hut Trip to Carter Notch - Snowshoe or hike (depending on conditions) into the Hut in Carter Notch. Spend Sat afternoon exploring the Ramparts or bagging another winter 4000 footer. Group meals will be prepared. Bring your own lunches and snacks. Full winter gear & experience with a full pack is a must. Bring a warm sleeping bag (zero degree recommended) and plenty of warm clothes. Bunk rooms have absolutely no heat. Space is limited, $40 incl. bunk, dinner & breakfast. Leaders Gail Lawley and Don Parker.

April 2006:

Sat., April. 1. Deadline to submit trips for the May/June issue of Wilderness Matters.

Apr. 8. Washington (or Monroe) via Huntington Ravine's South Gully. Not for the beginner! Weather and snow conditions permitting, we'll travel in 4-person rope teams (maximum: two teams) through South Gully and across the Alpine Garden (after a brief self-arrest practice) to an available summit. Experience & comfort with above-treeline winter travel, steep snow climbing, avalanche terrain, and proper use of crampons & ice ax required. Full winter gear plus helmet & harness. L: Spencer Meyer spencer@beyondkatahdin.org ,CL: Dave Langley dlangleys@msn.com

Mon., April. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the June issue of AMC Outdoors.

Thurs., April 13 Moonlight Walk on Eastern Trail, Scarborough, ME. L. Lorraine Hussey.

Sat., April 15. Round Top Mountain Family Hike. Group size is limited so please call Peter Roderick for further details or roderick1027@ctel.net. This hike is a four-mile loop from the parking lot to top of Round Top Mountain, a small mountain with great views. Co-leader Brian Alexander, Stewardship Manager for the Kennebec Highlands.

Sun., April 23, 5-8 PM. Potluck and talk by AMC senior staff scientist Dave Publicover on Windpower and AMC - or what does it mean to protect our mountains? Potluck will start at 5 PM followed by talk at 6 PM. Please bring a dish to share. Williston-West Church, 32 Thomas Street, Portland. Contact Alix alixandbob@earthlink.net or Peg mjnation11@earthlink.net for further information or directions.

Sat., April 27. Tuckerman Ravine. Hike up to Hermit Lake Shelter and conditions permitting into the Bowl of Tuckermans to Lunch Rocks to view the spectacular scenery of the Ravine and watch skiers descend the steep and challenging routes. Moderate grades on a total trip length of 6.2 miles, full winter gear required. This is not a ski trip. L George Brown gwbrown@tds.net, CL Peter Broderick MESA@aol.com

May 2006:

Sat., May 6. Trail Maintenance trip. Coburn Brook Trail, Rumford Whitecap Mountain – Work trip with trail assessment. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sat., May 6. Mt. Chocorua. Via Brook & Liberty Trs. Hopefully hike after the snow, through limited mud, & before the bugs. 7.5 mi RT w/2600' elev. gain. Mod. pace w/lots of ledges. Some steepness near the top. Grand view from the summit. Ls Jane Gibbons janegibbons@tdisp.com, Dave Forman with Sage. Joint trip with New Hampshire AMC.

Tues., May 9. Early season ride, flat – no hills in the Old Orchard area. We start from Pine Point, bike to Old Orchard, Ocean Park and more if time permits. Riding about 15 miles at a comfortable pace set by the group. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Wed., May. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the July/August issue of AMC Outdoors.

Thurs., May 11. Sawyer Mt,, 1100', Liminington, ME. 4 mile hike on old woods roads with interesting old cemetery and homestead, some views. L. Lorraine Hussey

Sat., May 13. Hike North and South Baldface. Approx. 10 mile loop over moderate to steep terrain and 4 miles of open ledges with extensive views of surrounding summits. Ls Claudette Deschenes and George Brown(585-2259 or gwbrown@tsd.net

Sat., May 13. Leader and co-leader social and full moon potluck. Calling all leaders and co-leaders! A spring social has been planned just for you! This is a social event for leaders and co-leaders, but anyone who has considered becoming a chapter leader or co-leader is welcome. This will be a good opportunity to have your ‘leader’ questions answered and meet other leaders. Peter and Janet Roderick are hosting the event at their home in Rome, Maine. The event starts at 2:00 and will include an easy hike in the afternoon, social hour, potluck dinner and a full moon hike. Please call ahead to get directions, let us know you are coming and what you are bringing. Contact: Joleen Rice jrice@verrilldana.com or Janet Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sun., May 14. Bike ride - Leader’s choice call or e-mail Denise Courtemanche, decacct@rcn.com. This will be a shorter ride because it is early in the season.

Tues., May 16. Bike ride. One of our traditional routes: we will meet at the Catholic Church on Black Point Road and ride out to Prouts Neck and Higgins Beach. The mileage is about 12 miles and mostly flat and the views are spectacular!! Leader: Denise Courtemanche, decacct@rcn.com

Tues., May 16. Beginner Hike Workshop. This workshop is intended for new hikers or seasoned veterans who want to learn more or share their experience. The workshop will be held on the Bates College campus in Lewiston. Workshop will run from 7 to 9 PM. Presenters will be experienced AMC trip leaders. Topics covered will include basic navigation, clothing and footwear, hydration and nutrition and more. For more information and directions contact Bryan Courtois courtois@gwi.net

May 19 - 21 Acadia weekend in B & B. Participants may have the choice of sea kayaking, hiking or biking the carriage roads (should be able to bike 25 miles of hilly terrain per day). $50 per person for two nights and two breakfasts. Register with L Don Parker, PO Box 239, Steep Falls ME 04085; donp@pivot.net; CLs Jim Burnell & Dave Lanman.

Sat., May 20. Trail Maintenance trip. Appalachian Trail, near Stratton. So many blow downs--so few volunteers. Please join us! For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sat., May 20 Family Day Hike & Picnic, Sabattus Mountain, Center Lovell, Maine – This easy hike for kids offers magnificent views of nearby mountains and the Presidentials. This outing is designed for families with young children. Meet at parking lot at 11 a.m. Distance: 0.8 mi. to the top; loop is 1.6 mi. RT. Bring your lunch for a summit picnic. Parents are responsible for supervising their children. Directions: from jct. of ME-5 and ME-93 in Lovell, go N on ME-5 for 4.5 mi. (pass Center Lovell General Store at 3.8 mi.) and turn R onto Sabattus Rd. (aka Sabattus Mtn. Rd.). Go 1.5 mi. Bear R at the fork, still on Sabattus Rd., now dirt. Go 0.7 mi. to new parking lot on R. Register w/Greg Hansel ghansel@preti.com

Sat-Sun, May 20-21. Wilderness First Aid. To be held at the Pine Point Fire Station in Scarborough, Maine. The topic is emergency care but with a back country emphasis. Material will cover preparation and prevention, assessment, treatment and evacuation. Program includes lectures, discussions, and plenty of practice scenarios. Meets requirements for 2 year WFA certification. Cost is $20 for Maine Chapter members and $80 for non-members. To register or for more information, contact Jane Danielson jdanielson@suscom-maine.net

Sun., May 21. Bike ride. If our legs are ready, we will begin riding in the York area about 29 miles but mostly flat. Call for times. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., May 23. Bike ride. We will meet at the Wainwright Fields in South Portland and ride the Eastern Trail to Bug Light and Fort Williams if we have enough time. Approximately 15 miles. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

May 26 – 29. Little Lyford Pond Camps – Trail Work Weekend: Scheduled for the peak time for fly-fishing if past years are any predictor. Join us for trail work until mid-afternoon each day with plenty of time for early morning and evening fly fishing for those who enjoy casting for native brookies. For the rest of you, there is nearby Gulf Hagas, a beautiful river gorge to enjoy, a short hike from camp or just relaxing at AMC’s newest full service facility with great accommodations and wonderful food and hospitality. Reservations required. Contact Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net or Keith Chapman at pproctor@maine.rr.com

Sun., May 28: Bike Ride. Since this is a holiday weekend, I’m going to ride to Popham Beach from West Bath. I would love to have some company! The ride is between 29 and 32 miles and does have rolling hills. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., May 30. Bike Ride. We will meet at the University of New England in Biddeford off Route 9, and ride to Biddeford Pool, Fortunes Rock and Goose Rock Beach. This could be made into a 10-mile ride and an 18-mile ride for those who wish to smell the roses. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Wed., May 31. Introduction to Backpacking Workshop. Learn what you need for safe overnight travel on the trails: tents, backpacks, food, stove, water purification, clothes, and a variety of outdoor hints. This workshop is designed for beginner or experienced hikers who want to be able to spend overnights on the trail. Follow-up with weekend trip (see June 24-25 listing). Meeting Room, Scarborough Public Library, 6:30 - 10:00 PM Info/directions/pre-registration Wayne Newton 897-3072 or 562-7771

June 2006:

Thurs., June. 1. Deadline to submit trips for the July/August issue of Wilderness Matters.

Sat, June 3. Birding on Monhegan Island. Join expert birder Janet Williams for an excursion to Monhegan Island to observe the spring migration of birds. We will leave from New Harbor. Cost per person is $28. For more information or to sign up contact co-leaders Peg Nation, mjnation11@earthlink.net or Alix Pratt alixandbob@earthlink.net. Space is limited.

Sat., June 3. Trail Maintenance trip. Bald Mountain, Weld. Great views from ledges on Bald reached by a trail that was recently reopened due to the generosity of the landowner. Help us get the trail in shape. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net.

Sat., June 3. Reddington Mtn. Approx. 8.4 mile RT hike to this 4,000 footer over moderate grades with limited but unique views to surrounding summits along the trail. L.George Brown gwbrown@tds.net CL Laura Flight flyrodflight@yahoo.com

Sun., June 4. Bike Ride. We should have all our legs in shape by now, so lets head for Ogunquit and an ocean ride. Call for meeting time and place. Ride will be about 30 miles. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., June 6. Bike Ride. Join us for a 20-mile loop from the Country to the Sea. Come and experience biking the new Eastern Trail Bridge on the Dunstan River in the Scarborough Marsh. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Thurs., June 8. Speckled Mt, 2906', No Lovell, ME. 6.8 mile hike via Link & Cold Brook Tr, Elevation gain 2400'. Great views. L. Lorraine Hussey 799-7494 7-9pm.

Sat., June 10. Mt. Madison and Mt. Adams Loop Hike. Strenuous hike on north side of Presidentials. 4500 feet elevation gain, 9-10 miles roundtrip. Exact route to be determined. Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Leaders Jeanne Christie and Larry DeHof. E-mail: Jeanne.Christie@aswm.org or ldehof@access4less.net.

Sat.-Sun., June 10 &11. Speck Pond Trail Backpack - Pack in to Speck Pond, set up camp, and then spend the rest of the day fishing or climbing to the tower on the summit of Old Speck Mountain depending on group interest. Total mileage to Speck Pond and out - 7.4, 1,700 foot elevation gain. Slow to moderate pace. Moderate terrain. Leaders Lewis Dow and Jennie Warner. Please call before 9:00 PM.

Sun., June 11. Bike Ride. Let’s continue up the coast to Kennebunk and Kennebunk Port and ride 30 miles and enjoy the beach along the way. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., June 13. Bike Ride. We will visit Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth but we will leave from Scarborough and take the long road! Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Fri., June 16. Mt. Abraham via Fire Warden's Trail. Learn how to monitor alpine wildflowers with AMC's Mountain Watch program and monitor ozone with VizVol Program. CL Alix Pratt alixandbob@earthlink.net and CL Peg Nation mjnation11@earthlink.net.

Sun, June 18. Alpine Garden Hike. Experience the flowers and plants of the Alpine Garden. We’ll car pool to the Cow Pasture parking area and hike down to the Alpine Garden. Limit of 10. For more information or to sign up contact co-leaders Peg Nation, mjnation11@earthlink.net or Alix Pratt alixandbob@earthlink.net

Sun., June 18. Bike Ride. We may make it to Thomaston for a ride today!! Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., June 20. Bike Ride. Lets take a trip to Brunswick and ride to Wolf’s Neck Park. This is a 22-mile ride. Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Wed., June 21. Outings Committee meeting at McDonalds in Freeport. Meeting starts at 7:00 PM. Contact Joleen Rice, 892-2685 jrice@verrilldana.com for more details.

Sat.-Sun., June 24-25 Beginner Backpack, TBA, ME. Destination TBA. This will be a follow-up to May 31 Intro to Backpacking Workshop, but all are welcome. This is an approximate 4 mile hike over easy and moderate terrain. It is designed for the beginning backpacker to use unfamiliar equipment and get a feel for the backpacking experience. Seasoned backpackers desiring a gentle experience are welcome, also. L. Wayne Newton.

Sat., June 24, Trail Maintenance trip. Tumbledown Mountain, Link Trail. Trail assessment and clearing. For more information, contact Keith Chapman 207-767-8240 or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net.

Sat., June 24, Canoe Long Pond in Belgrade. An all-day canoe trip (bring lunch, water, and snacks), exploring Long Pond and connecting streams. Contact Dave Wood for details outwood@verizon.net. Rain date 6/25.

Sun., June 25. Bike Ride. Leader’s choice! Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., June 27. Bike Ride. This could be Joyce’s ride to Sebago Lake and a dip in the water with ice cream to follow?? Leader: Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Wed., June 28. Speckled Mountain, Evans Notch on RT 113. Approx. 7.5 mile loop hike. Moderate pace & terrain. Great views. L Jane Danielson jdanielson@suscom-maine.net, CL JoAnne Diller.

July 2006:

June 30/July 4. Little Lyford Pond Camps - Trail Work Weekend. Spend a weekend at AMC's newest full service facility, work on nearby trails and still have time each day to explore the woods and waters in this beautiful area of northern Maine. All trail volunteers stay in the bunkhouse and enjoy a highly discounted rate per night. Reservations required. Contact Peter Roderick at roderick1027@ctel.net or Keith Chapman at pproctor@maine.rr.com

Sat. - Mon., July 1,2,3. Backpack Grafton Loop Trail. Backpack the east side of this well laid out trail. Great views and nice campsites. We will do 21 miles in 3 days. Aprox. 5, 8,and 8 mile days. 360 views from Puzzle 3,120' and East Baldpate 3,812' mts. Tents required. Leaders Wayne Newton and Jennie Warner

Sun., July 9. Bike Ride. Let’s ride through beautiful Pownal and Durham countryside, which means there are a few rolling hills along the way. The ride is about 25 miles. L Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Mon., July. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the September issue of AMC Outdoors.

Tues., July 11. Bike Ride. Al Friend would like to take us on a ride tonight. We will ride a loop from Naples to Sebago Lake State Park along the back roads. The ride is about 18 miles and is mostly flat, but the views are wonderful! E-mail Al at fuzzyface@naturallyfuzzy.com for where to meet

Thurs.,July 13. Caribou Mt. 2850', Evans Notch, Maine. 6.9 mile hike with good views. L. Lorraine Hussey, call before 9:00pm.

Sat., July 15. Mt Carrigain (4680') via Signal Ridge Trail. 10 mi. at moderate pace with magnificent views from Signal Ridge and summit observation tower. Tom Pettingill  and Debby Kantor, dlkantor@aol.com, after JUL 8.

Sat., July 15. Trail Maintenance trip. Rumford White Cap, Andover. Trail work on this mountain noted for its great views and blueberries no matter where you look. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sat., July 15 Family Day Hike & Picnic on Bald Mountain, Weld, Maine – This moderate to challenging mountain for children rewards hikers with panoramic views of Mount Blue, the Presidentials and Katahdin. The rugged trail includes a scramble up granite ledge, cairns and an exposed summit. This outing is designed for families with children. Meet in the parking lot at 10:30 a.m. Distance: 1.5 mi. to top; RT 3 mi. Bring your lunch for a summit picnic. Parents are responsible for supervising their children. Directions: Pkg lot on S side of ME 156 8.5 mi.W of Wilton & 5 mi. E of Weld just SE of 2 bridges and a logging rd. Register w/Greg Hansel ghansel@preti.com

Sat., July15. Goose Eye Mtn .Hike to two open summits and along app. 1.5 miles of alpine meadows on this 9.5 mile loop over moderate grades with short car spot. Ls George Brown gwbrown@tds.net, Gerry Barnicle

Sun., July 16. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., July 18. Bike Ride. Jim Tierney will do his annual ride around Lake Auburn. We will meet at the TD BankNorth parking lot just over the bridge between Lewiston and Auburn. The ride is about 16 miles of rolling countryside. There will be a potluck following the ride at Jim’s house. E-mail run437@hotmail.com

Sat. July 22. Tumbledown Mtn., Weld. Approx. 8.4 mile loop over moderate to steep terrain with excellent views from two open summits. Short car spot required. L. George Brown gwbrown@tds.net CL. Maureen "Cookie" McCool coolbrod@gwi.net both calls before 8:00 pm.

Sat-Sun, July 22-23. Intermediate Backpack on the new Grafton Loop Trail.We'll hike the ~15 miles of the western half over 2 days. Come get to know this new trail and visit and old favorite, Old Speck! Moderate pace. L Spencer Meyer spencer@beyondkatahdin.org

Sun-Mon, July 23-24, Mt. Washington. Hike the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail to Lakes of the Clouds Hut and stay overnight. Side trip to Mt. Monroe or beyond likely after dropping gear. Monday summit Washington and return to cars. Cost will be $80.00 and includes fee for the hut, cocktails and appetizers. L Bryan Courtois Courtois@gwi.net

Sun., July 23. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., July 25. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. Andy knows some wonderful back roads through the country of Biddeford, Saco, etc. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com, Co-L Andy Chabot andychabot@msn.com

Sat., July 29. Trail Maintenance trip. Pleasant Mountain, near Bridgton. Southwest Ridge Trail. Maintenance and a relocation project all in one trip. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sun., July 30. Chain of Ponds Snow. App. 6.8 mile hike over moderate grades to Snow Pond and on to the summit of this New England 100 Highest with views to Canada and surrounding summits in Maine from fire tower. Ls George Brown gwbrown@tds.net, Jennie Warner

Sun., July 30. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

August 2006:

Tues., August. 1. Deadline to submit trips for the September/October issue of Wilderness Matters.

Tues., - August 1. Bike Ride. Tonight lets ride to Cousin’s Island and Little John. We will meet in Falmouth to begin our ride. Call Denise for directions or e-mail decacct@rcn.com

Thurs., August 3. Eastman Mt. 2939', Evans Notch, Maine. 8.6 mile hike with good views. L Lorraine Hussey before 9:00pm..

Sat., August 5. North Moat Mountain(3201) and Middle Moat Mountain (2270) via the Moat Mountain and Red Ridge Trails. Hike a 10-mile loop over North Moat, with an optional stop at Middle Moat on the way down (adding 2 more miles, if time permits). Scenic cascades at Diana's Bath and excellent views from both summits. CL's Debby Kantor, dlkantor@aol.com and Tom Pettingill.

Sun., August 6. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., August 8. Bike Ride. Topsham is where we will be tonight. Come join us for a ride up to the Cathance River and back. We will dine at the Seadog Brew Pub after the ride. About 15 miles. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Thurs., August. 10. Deadline to submit trips for the October issue of AMC Outdoors.

Sat-Sun, August 12-13. Intermediate - Advanced Backpack on the Maine AT.
We'll hike from East B Hill Rd. to Rt. 17. Come enjoy Wyman, Bemis and Old Blue Mtns. on this awesome stretch of our state. We'll stop to talk about the old growth stand near Old Blue and generally enjoy the woods. ~12 miles per day at moderate pace. L Spencer Meyer spencer@beyondkatahdin.org

Sat., August 12. Trail Maintenance trip. Bald & Speckled Mountains, Peru. Trail assessment and maintenance. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Tues., August 15. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Sun., August 20. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Tues., August 22. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com

Sat., August 19. Sea Kayak Trip. Trip from Harpswell to Eagle Island. For more information and gear requirements, contact L. Rob Hutchinson at kayak@ime.net

Sat., August 19. Goose Eye, East (3794') and West (3870') Peaks via Wright Trail. 8.6 mi. loop at moderate pace along scenic streamside trail leading to two wide open summits in the Mahoosuc Range. CL's Debby Kantor, dlkantor@aol.com and Tom Pettingill.

Sat., August 26. Sea Kayak Trip. Trip from Winslow Park to the Haraseeket River/Wolfe Neck State Park area. For more information and gear requirements, contact L. Rob Hutchinson at kayak@ime.net
Sat., August 26. Mt. Success. Joint Me./N.H. hike in the Mahoosucs, 6 miles over moderate grades at a relaxed pace to open summit. Ls George Brown gwbrown@tds.net, Nancy Seavy

Sat., August 26. Trail Maintenance trip. Leaders Choice. For more information, contact Keith Chapman or Peter Roderick roderick1027@ctel.net

Sat.-Sun., August 26-27. Backpack Evens Notch Wildriver area. We will do 5 to 8 miles each day. Trails depend on group and weather. Many trails to choose from. Will stay at Blue or Spruce Brook campsites. L Wayne Newton

Tues., August 29. Bike Ride. Leader’s Choice. L. Denise Courtemanche decacct@rcn.com