OPTIONS FAQs
Will I be able to move into my residence hall early?
The North Woods and Coastal Islands Adventure trips are able to move in to the residence halls early. The Adventures will move in at 11:30am on the Wednesday we leave for our trip.
Where can I stay if I come into town even earlier than that?
You and your family can stay at a hotel in the Orono/Old Town area.
Where do I meet for my trip?
For the Expeditions, please meet at the Maine Bound Adventure Center. For Adventures, please meet in the parking lot of the New Balance Student Recreation Center after you are done moving into your residence hall. Check in begins at 1:30pm in the parking lot.
Can I charge the trip to my student account?
No. Unfortunately, we cannot charge your student account since you have not officially started at the University.
When do I get to pick my Thursday activity for the Adventures?
An informational email will be sent out to you in mid summer. Included in that email is the Activity Selection sheet. Please email it to us, or mail it to 5795 Maine Bound Adventure Center, Orono ME 04469, or fax it to us at 207.581.1719.
Will I miss out on regular orientation?
No. All of our programs return to campus in time to join the rest of the students for regular Maine Hello activities.
Do I need to have previous experience?
Our trips are designed for anyone from the complete novice to the experienced veteran. If you are very capable in a particular skill area, such as whitewater kayaking, we recommend you try something new like rock climbing or sea kayaking. All of our programs will cover the fundamentals to back country ethics and travel, as well as the dynamics of working with a new group of people. Therefore everyone, regardless of experience, stands to learn and grow throughout the week.
How do I know if I’m physically capable of doing a trip?
The reality is that every trip will require some physical effort on your part. The best thing you can do if you are unsure of your ability to complete a program is to simply call us here at Maine Bound and we can help you figure it out.
How “out there” will we be during the trip?
Our OPTIONS program is designed to take you and your group away from the distractions of civilization and place you in the serene environment that is the Maine Wilderness. Some trips, by nature of the route or activity, will intersect with busier areas. For the most part, however, you can expect to be out of contact and “out there” for the duration of your program. That does mean limited or in most cases, no cell phone service. Feel free to bring your phone to take pictures, alarm clocks, etc. Also realize that there are extremely limited opportunities to charge your phone.
Do I need to buy any expensive equipment?
Absolutely not! Any technical pieces of equipment such as boats, paddles, harnesses or helmets will be provided by Maine Bound along with all group camping and cooking gear. You are only expected to bring personal gear such as clothing, a sleeping bag and pad, a headlamp/flashlight, eating utensils and bowl, and something to carry your gear in. Once you sign up for a specific program, you will receive detailed information about what you need to provide for yourself. In most cases, these items can be rented from Maine Bound or purchased for very little money. Oftentimes, our instructors have extra and can help get you ready for your adventure.
Can my roommate and I go on a trip together?
Sure you can, and what a great way to start off the year! We strongly encourage you to find a trip that you and your roommate are both interested in. Just be sure you sign up quickly, as spaces for these programs go fast!
Call (207) 581-1794 for more information or to register!