Maine has long been known for its outstanding boating opportunities – both coastal and inland. Recreational boaters from Maine and far beyond are drawn to Maine’s salt and fresh waters each year, following living traditions set by the Abenaki paddling rivers and Maine’s coast.
There are more than 570 water trails nationwide, and Maine has some of the most celebrated and historically iconic trails. The 30th anniversary of the Maine Island Trail this month provides an opportunity to look back at all recreational water trails in Maine and how they have influenced this national phenomenon. From its grassroots inception in Rockland, the notion of a “water trail” began in Maine and continues to thrive here, echoing tradition and evoking the grand trips of yore.
Guests
- Karrie Thomas, executive director of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail
- Doug Welch, executive director of the Maine Island Trail Association
- Alan Stearns, executive director of the Royal River Conservation Trust
John Daigle, associate professor of forest recreation management, University of Maine (via phone)
Resources
- "You Can Do It In A Small Boat," a short community film by guest Doug Welch about his 500-mile journey in a small boat to seven islands in Maine. It has aired on Maine Public Television.
- Northern Forest Canoe Trail
- Maine Island Trail
- Royal River Water Trail
- Maine Trail Finder
- Water Activities: Bureau of Parks and Lands: Maine DACF
- Penobscot River Restoration Project