Living and traveling in the outdoors is a core element of Maine Coast Semester. Although there is ample time out on field trips or on work program, it is through our Outdoor Program that students focus most on developing their outdoor skills, camping, and discovery of new passions. No experience is required and participation is simply part of the semester experience – everyone takes part.

Wilderness Trips
All students go on a multi-day wilderness trip along the Maine coast or in the north woods within the first month of the semester. In the fall, students may canoe down the West Branch of the Penobscot River, sea kayak to Hungry Island, or sail on one of our pulling boats from island to island.

During the spring semester, students may travel to one of our outposts in the North Maine Woods to sleep in a rustic cabin or camp in a “walled tent,” complete with a portable woodstove, and snowshoe alongside moose tracks by day. These trips travel in groups of ten or fewer students led by experienced and skilled leaders from the Chewonki's staff.

Solo Reflection Time
In late October or April, each student experiences a two-night “Solo” at a small, secluded campsite on our wooded campus. The Solo encourages students to simplify their life for a short time, to use the outdoor living skills they have learned, and to reflect on their lives – a rare opportunity in today’s society. Students observe, sketch, write in their journals, create art, or simply absorb the solitude. The Solo experience is not an exercise in outdoor survival. Faculty members are able to monitor student health and well-being through a series of non-verbal check-ins throughout the weekend that ensure students are safe, without interrupting the solo experience.

For more photos of our Outdoor Programs, click here.