Height of the Land

Feel the satisfaction of completing a section of the Appalachian Trail, enjoy beautiful vistas, and get to know a group of peers as you experience the western mountains of Maine.

Immerse yourself in the forests, lakes, and ridgelines of western Maine on this scenic backpacking adventure. This trip offers a balance of challenge and serenity, the perfect option for those looking to experience completing a stretch of the Appalachian Trail.

While the terrain is less demanding than our most strenuous routes, this trip still includes elevation gain and days averaging 4-8 miles of hiking with full packs (up to 45 lbs) and one mountain summit with day packs. You'll move through a variety of backcountry settings, sleeping in lean-tos and at remote campsites, and go to the bathroom in the woods (some sites have an outhouse). All of it will culminate in a summit of Saddleback Mountain from a base camp before returning to campus.

Participants should expect to move camp everyday and carry packs up to 45 pounds.

If there is anything in the trip description or equipment list that you have questions about, please do not hesitate to contact us at (207) 725-4292 or bocOtrips@bowdoin.edu.

See Backpacking Equipment List.

Sample Itinerary

Wednesday

Depart from Bowdoin.
Start your hike along the Appalachian Trail
Hike ~8 miles to camp and settle in for your first night under the stars.

Thursday

Hike ~7 miles along the AT to a designated campsite, your home base for the next two nights.

Friday

Dayhike Saddleback Mountain, gaining ~2,000 feet over ~4 miles round-trip.
Return to camp for your final night on trail.

Saturday

Get picked up at the trailhead and return to campus. Clean all your camping gear and return borrowed equipment before returning to dorms.