Harpswell Community

This trip will introduce students to Harpswell, a town of peninsulas and islands neighboring Brunswick. Explore the unique dynamics of this coastal town, its history, and how it continues to evolve today.

Students standing on a dock listening to someone speak

Students on this trip will have the opportunity to explore Harpswell, a coastal community in the backyard of Bowdoin College known for its working waterfronts, scenic coves, and strong spirit of local stewardship. Participants will engage with organizations such as Harpswell Aging at Home and the Harpswell Invasive Plant Partnership to learn about various topics, including community resilience and environmental conservation. Accommodations will be in cabins at Bowdoin’s scenic Schiller Coastal Studies Center, with access to trails, the waterfront, and kitchen and shower facilities.

Sample Itinerary

Wednesday, August 26: Depart Bowdoin and travel back in time at a local historical society, then help with some trail work!

Thursday, August 27: An aquaculture day! Tour an oyster farm, help clean up a local beach, and end the day by catching a community concert in town!

Friday, August 28: Cook a meal for Harpswell Aging at Home, helping keep the community fed, and then explore the town!

Saturday, August 29: Catch the sunrise at Giant’s Stairs, reflect, and return back to Bowdoin!

If you have any questions about the nature of this trip or about specific items on the equipment list, please do not hesitate to contact us at mckeenOtrips@bowdoin.edu.

See packing list.