Each summer Chop Point offers exciting adventure trips that build memories for a lifetime. Geared to the experience level of the campers, each trip is a fun-filled, hands-on adventure where close friendships often develop. All trips are optional, and campers can choose to go on as many or as few as they’d like. There are no extra charges for the majority of our trips. Campers sign up for trips during the first few days of each session. Some trips are limited due to group sizes and minimum age requirements.
Suggested Equipment lists…
- Hiking – rugged shoes, rain gear, light sleeping bag, polar-fleece jacket
- Canoe/Kayak – water shoes, rain gear, light sleeping bag, polar-fleece jacket
- Biking – rugged shoes, rain gear, light sleeping bag, polar-fleece jacket
- White Water Rafting – water shoes, glasses strap (if wearing glasses), polar-fleece
Safety is a top priority. By Maine State law each trip must include a trained, certified trip leader. Chop Point teaches our staff the state-mandated course as part of their training. Life jackets are a part of all waterfront activities. Whenever possible, a cellular telephone is taken along. Satellite communicators were added to our program in 2018.
BIKING TRIPS—There are two options for bike trips during the summer. They rotate sessions every year. We are located 2-3 hour drive some of the best Mountain Biking trails in the Northeast. We head to either the Kingdom Trails in Vermont or the Carrabassett Valley trail system in Western Maine. The trails are well maintained and offer a variety of options for all ability levels. The scenery and views in both areas are amazing and it will be an adventure to remember. Bring your own bike or use one of Chop Point’s mountain bikes.
CANOE TRIPS—Canoes are ideal for exploring the rivers and bays of Maine. Before the first trip, a camper must pass a swimming test and receive instruction in canoeing safety. Canoe trips range from 2-3 days. We take trips up the Kennebec River as well as ranging further afield into the wilderness of eastern Maine.
HIKING TRIPS—For advanced hikers, there are literally hundreds of miles of trails to choose from in the White Mountains, and Baxter State Park. The scenery is so breathtaking in the White Mountains that circus founder P.T. Barnum, upon reaching the top of mile-high Mt. Washington, observed, “This is the second greatest show on earth.” For the less experienced, we hike Mt. Blue and Tumbledown Mountain. These two mountains offer an opportunity for campers to get their “feet wet” in both hiking and camping experience. All of our hiking trips are base camp oriented.
KAYAK TRIPS—Kayaking trips are taken in the shelter and safety of the coastal rivers and bays. Sea kayaks are a fast and efficient way to travel on the water in Maine; they offer a different experience than your traditional canoe.
SAILING TRIPS—Many feel that the only way to experience Maine is from the water by boat. The Schooner J&E Riggin, an 89-ft sailboat, offers the perfect opportunity for our campers to get that experience. Each summer we take one overnight trip aboard the Riggin. There are many islands and harbors to see during these trips. The boat is a beautiful sailing vessel and National Historic Landmark.
BOSTON—Tour the Birthplace of the American Revolution. We take a two-day trip to historic Boston. The trip may include: following parts of the Freedom Trail, touring historic buildings/museums/monuments, eating in the famous North End and shopping. This trip is geared for the more metropolitan camper. Never fear, there will still be some camping out in the back yard of a staff member.
WHITE WATER RAFTING—A three-hour drive to the head of the Kennebec River in the Forks begins a spectacular challenge of the Class IV rapids of the Gorge. Registered Maine guides using self-bailing rafts make this thrilling experience one to remember. An extra fee of $95 and a parental release form is required (You may leave the reservation number, meal choice and date of the trip blank we will fill that out before our trip).
Day Trips
The entire camp also takes day trips to various places around the state. Depending on the session, these areas may include Boothbay Harbor, Reid State Park, Mt. Batty, Yarmouth Clam Festival, Camden, Bath Heritage Days, and outlet shopping in Freeport, home of L.L. Bean.