Programs - Maine Bound
Maine Bound is a program of Campus Recreation at the University of Maine. Through Maine Bound we offer a comprehensive outdoor experience for all skill levels. By combining recreation and education our programs offer adventure opportunities for every lifestyle while instilling skills that are used in everyday campus life. Through our professional staff and devoted student instructors we are passionate about educating everyone in all the responsible fun and adventure that the majestic Maine outdoors has to offer. The Maine Bound program consists of the following: Adventure Center, rock climbing wall, instructional programs, trips, ski pass sales, academic courses, challenge course, picnic area. For first year students, we offer OPTIONS orientation trips during the week before Fall classes begin.
Maine Bound 2008 Events
Please note: Events that include a pre-trip meeting require registration by 5pm on that day.
GENERAL
Katahdin Winter Ascent
February 23-24 (pre-trip meeting February 21)
Members $100
Non Members $150
You may have experienced Katahdin a number of times in the summer months, but we guarantee you have never experienced it like this. The first day of this winter adventure will consist of skiing into the base of the mountain. We will learn the basics of how to stay warm in the winter, as well as how to cook in the icy winter backcountry. The next day we will attempt to summit, a thrill that not many have experienced in winter. Come learn some winter camping skills as well as mountaineering skills with us on Katahdin. Not only will you walk away with a whole new appreciation for winter, but you will have some pretty awesome bragging rights as well!
Wilderness First Aid (WFA)
April 5-6
Members $135
Non Members $150
CPR is additional $30
Designed specifically for groups and their leaders, this 16-hour program covers topics ranging from preparation and prevention, to assessment and treatment. Any level of medical training is very useful in the backcountry, and wilderness first aid is a great foundation. This course also qualifies for a WFR re-certification. Classroom lectures and discussions are supplemented by practical work and problem-solving exercises. The emphasis is always on hands-on experience. Scenarios are an important part of this training, and can also be really fun. This is a SOLO certification course.
Cutler Coast Backpacking
April 19-20 (pre-trip meeting April 17)
Members $50
Non Members $65
This trip is an overnight backpacking trip to one of Maine's most beautiful secret spots - the Cutler Coast. The first day will take us on a relaxed scenic hike to a seaside campsite where we will have a chance to explore the rocky coastline and practice our backcountry cooking! The second day will include hiking along Maine's boldest coastline with towering sea cliffs and hidden pebble beaches. With endless opportunities to take amazing pictures, enjoy the seascape, and make new friends, this is not an adventure to be missed! No experience is required; all group camping equipment is provided.
Wilderness First Responder
May 19-28
Members $500
Non Members $550
If you are looking to work in the outdoor recreation industry, or if you find yourself recreating in adventure sports often, WFR is an essential course for you. This 90 hour program covers a vast range of injuries and illnesses, everything from life-threatening to minor. WFR will give you a “toolbox” of knowledge on how to deal with these situations. You will learn how to assess a patient, and how to make an educated decision on what the best course of action is in any situation. The curriculum will be a mix of both lecture and hands-on lessons, including wilderness emergency scenarios. This is a SOLO certification course, no prior medical experience necessary.
ICE
Intro to Ice Climbing
January 26 (pre-trip meeting January 24)
February 2 (pre-trip meeting January 31)
Members $45
Non Members $60
Come join us for a day of ice climbing this season! Whether you are brand new to climbing or just hoping to expand your climbing to all seasons, this is the course for you. No experience is necessary as our instructors will cover everything you need to know to have a fun safe day climbing ice.
Grafton Notch Ice Climbing
February 15-16 (pre-trip meeting February 13)
Members $110
Non Members $125
Have you always thought that ice climbing looked cool, but never had the resources to get into it? Have you been ice climbing before and are itching to experience more? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions then this trip is for you. Maine Bound will provide the gear, and instruction, you just need to provide the desire to “send.” Winter in New England can either be a total bummer, or the season that you most look forward to; experiencing winter sports can help it be the latter. Come ice climbing with us in beautiful Grafton Notch and experience just one joyful aspect of what freezing temperatures can offer! Cost includes food and lodging in a cozy bunkhouse.
Women’s Ice Climbing
February 24 (pre-trip meeting February 21)
Members $45
Non Members $60
Women are steadily up and coming in the world of adventure sports. Many of the world’s most elite adventure athletes are women. Here is a course that will introduce you to the world of ice climbing, and introduce you to some pretty awesome ladies as well! Ice climbing is one of the many ways to escape the winter blues, and learn to enjoy one of the many aspects of fun that the season has to offer. Let’s celebrate the elegance and beauty of winter and women, and swing some axes into some ice!
SNOW
XC Skiing
January 18, February 2 and 16 (Classic Style)
January 26, February 8 and 23 (Skate Style)
Members $15 (per day - includes equipment)
Non Members $20 (per day - includes equipment)
Take your workout outside! We offer cross country ski lessons for all levels; from the experienced skier that might just want to touch up her form, to the brand new skier that has never even put on skis. We also offer lessons in both skate skiing, and classic skiing. Cross country skiing is a great sport that can be enjoyed locally, it requires minimal gear, and it provides a great workout in the outdoors. Our friendly and experienced ski staff can help you improve your skills with a fun afternoon in the snow.
Telemark Skiing at Sugarloaf
January 21 (pre-trip meeting January 17)
February 10 (pre-trip meeting February 7)
Members $65 (includes equipment, lift tickets and transportation)
Non Members $70 (includes equipment, lift tickets and transportation)
Picture this: you are riding on the chairlift with the crisp Sugarloaf air sweeping by, and you look down to see a skier absolutely ripping it up on tele skis. Well, that skier could soon be you. Join us for a trip for one of the east coast’s finest ski mountains for a day of learning how to “free your heel.” The popularity of telemark skiing has exploded on the east coast in the last few years, and is still continuing to gain even more popularity. Come to “the Loaf” and set your heels free!
Telemark Tuesdays at Hermon Mt.
January 29 and February 26
Members $25 (includes equipment, lift tickets and transportation)
Non Members $35 (includes equipment, lift tickets and transportation)
Free Heel skiing is one of the most rapidly growing sports, as well as one of the oldest. While much has changed since the first telemark turn, it remains one of the most efficient methods of backcountry travel. So if you are interested in earning your turns or just learning a new way to enjoy winter, this course is for you. We'll provide the technical gear and you just need to bring along a positive attitude. So come join us for the evening and expand your winter horizons.
Snowshoe Day Trip
January 9
Members $10
Non Members $12
Have you ever wanted to go on a winter hike, but didn’t know where to begin? Let our enthusiastic and qualified instructors take you there! Keeping warm in winter conditions, general trip planning, use of snowshoes and winter clothing, map and compass, and natural history will all be topics of presentation throughout the hike. Grab your snowshoes or use ours, and get ready to venture into Maine’s winter wonderland! Snowshoes can be provided; no experience required.
Snow Shelter Building Workshop
February 19
Members $3
Non Members $5
3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Maine Bound Adventure Center.
ROCK
Horsepens 40 Bouldering
January 6-12 (pre-trip meeting December 13)
Members $425
Non Members $525
On this seven day adventure we will escape the cold Maine winter and travel to the land of southern slopers in sunny Alabama. Horse Pens 40 is the best known boulder field in the Southeast. With acres and acres of boulders packed together it is almost impossible to do it all. This will be an unforgettable journey of cracks, pinches, slopers, slack lining, and southern culture. Climbers of any experience are welcome.
Intro to Rock Climbing
April 5 (pre-trip meeting April 3)
April 19 (pre-trip meeting April 17)
Members $45
Non Members $60
Have you ever experienced the exhilaration of perching yourself on the side of a cliff or standing on a small nub of rock the size of a quarter? Have you ever thought that you don't have the skills or equipment to give rock climbing a try? If you want a fantastic experience with coaching and safe, reliable equipment, then sign up for the Maine Bound Intro to Rock Climbing course. A team of two instructors will show you the ropes and teach you the skills you need to belay each other. The day will be packed with information, fun, excitement and challenge.
Pawtuckaway Bouldering
April 25-26 (pre-trip meeting April 24)
Members $100
Non Members $115
Join us for a great weekend trip to one of New England’s most spectacular bouldering locations. Pawtuckaway is the showpiece for bouldering in the North East. Novice through expert climbers are welcome on this trip, Pawtuckaway offers plenty of problems to challenge everyone. Group camping equipment and climbing shoes are provided.
WATER
Kayak Rolling Clinic Pool
January 23, February 20, March 20, and April 2
Members $20
Non Members $30
Have you ever seen people out on the river in a kayak flipping over and mysteriously back up again? Have you ever wanted to learn how to do that for yourself? Come chase away some winter blues in the pool and learn this essential kayak skill. Our experienced paddle staff will walk you step by step through a sequence that will have you on your way to a great kayak roll! You will also learn the fundamentals of escaping your boat if you flip, and the steps involved in executing an Eskimo roll.
Intro to Whitewater Kayaking
April 12 (pre-trip meeting April 10)
Members $45
Non Members $60
UMaine is fortunate enough to be surrounded by great places to get outside and get adventurous! The greater Bangor area has some amazing whitewater that might be calling your name to jump in and play! Whitewater kayaking is a fast-paced and incredibly FUN adventure sport, and we would love to help you dive in! This course begins Friday evening in the University’s Wallace pool where we will work on building strong foundation of fundamental boating skills. Saturday we will utilize the local whitewater locations as our classroom to learn the ins and outs of whitewater kayaking.
Weekend Whitewater Kayaking
April 25-26 (pre-trip meeting April 24)
Members $60
Non Members $75
With copious amounts of spring water flow, it’s a great time to learn how to whitewater kayak. The weekend will start on Saturday in the University’s Wallace pool so we can practice the fundamental boating skills in calm, still water. Next we will head out to the numerous locations of amazing whitewater in the local Bangor area. Get ready to spend two days having fun and learning the ins and outs of boating in our local backyard. All specialized equipment provided.
Sea Kayaking Day trip
April 27 (pre-trip meeting April 24)
Members $45
Non Members $60
Spend a full day exploring Maine's rocky coast by sea kayak. We will paddle among the islands and view the wildlife of Maine's beautiful coastline; while learning the basics of sea kayaking. Some possible topics include strokes, safety, boat feel techniques, rules of the nautical road, and gear. As more and more people begin to enjoy the sport of kayaking safety becomes even more important. Join us for a day to learn some important techniques and safety information while enjoying being out on the water!
BREAK TRIPS
Mexico Rock Climbing Spring Break
March 8-14 (pre-trip meeting February 28)
Members $875
Come spend spring break with Maine Bound at the beautiful El Potrero Chico (little corral), Mexico. El Potrero Chico is one of the largest sport climbing areas in North America. The limestone walls of this canyon reach heights of more than 2,000 feet. On this six-day adventure, students will have the opportunity to top rope climbs, lead single pitch sport climbs, and be guided up multi pitch climbs. One half day will also be dedicated to community service.
Roof of Africa Adventure- Back by popular demand!
May 12-24 (pre-trip meeting TBD)
Members and Non Members $3,300
This once in a lifetime cross cultural adventure is not to be missed. The trip will start in the “Mountain Kingdom” of Lesotho. While in Lesotho you will have the opportunity to day hike in the captivating Maluti mountains, ride sure footed Basetho ponies and visit villages where life is much as it has been for hundreds of years in Africa. You may even spend the night in a traditional rondavle with a local family. After leaving the highlands of Lesotho you will travel along the spectacular “Garden Route” in South Africa. Along the way you will experience the South African coast, visit a gamepark, tour the wine region and experience the history and diversity of Cape Town situated at the meeting points of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. A day of service to the local community designed to suit your interests will be included.
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