Come paddle the West Branch of the Penobscot River with Kindling Collective! This trip is an opportunity to venture into the North Maine Woods through Penobscot territory for 5 days of canoeing, swimming, exploring, camping, and building queer community. This trip is for people who are new to canoeing or want to develop their canoe tripping skills in a queer-centered environment. Experienced trip leaders and Maine guides will instruct participants in the basics of paddling, navigation, setting up camp, and other backcountry skills. You’ll learn from Penobscot guide Sikwani about the significance of the river and history of the area, encounter wildlife—you may see moose, bald eagles, beavers, osprey, loons, and more—and enjoy some of the best stargazing we’ve ever encountered. You’ll enjoy some long paddling days on the river and lakes, as well as restful days camping on Lobster Lake while enjoying views of Katahdin. Tuition for this trip includes access to borrowing paddling and camping equipment from Kindling’s gear library, your guides, all meals and snacks, and camping and North Maine Woods fees. 

DRAFT ITNERARY

Day 1: Meet up with the group at Kindling Collective in Portland. Review personal gear, distribute group gear, and carpool to Northern Maine. Set up camp, cook dinner, get to know each other. Sleep in tents.

 

Day 2: Drive to put-in, load boats, and paddle to first campsite at Lobster Lake.

Day 3: Rest and explore day at Lobster Lake! Cook, chill, swim, explore, paddle, and connect in queer community.

Days 4-5: Paddle and camp on the West Branch and surrounding lakes.

Day 6: Wrap up and return to southern Maine.

Experience required: none