Mountain Center Adventures: Explore Western Maine with Maine Adaptive This Summer

This summer, Maine Adaptive is excited to welcome students, caregivers, volunteers, and community members to our new home in Newry for a series of Mountain Center Adventures.

From June through September, these monthly adventure weekends will bring people together to explore the outdoors, build connections, and experience the beauty of Western Maine through adaptive recreation. Whether you’re interested in mountain biking, paddling, hiking, or simply spending time in nature with a supportive community, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Stay at the Mountain Center

To help participants make the most of their experience, limited on-site lodging is available for students, caregivers, and volunteers. Staying overnight offers the opportunity to connect with fellow participants, enjoy shared meals, and fully immerse yourself in the Mountain Center experience.

Space is limited. If you are interested in lodging or have questions, please contact us at info@maineadaptive.org.

June: Mountain Bike Adventure

Our first Mountain Center Adventure takes riders to the Bethel Community Forest, where participants will explore the popular Community Access Trail System (CATS Trails). With options ranging from hard-packed gravel routes to beginner-friendly mountain biking trails, riders of varying abilities can enjoy a day on two or three wheels.

Participants are invited to arrive Friday evening for dinner, a campfire, and s’mores at the Mountain Center before Saturday’s group ride. Along the route, riders will have opportunities to rest, connect with fellow adventurers, and enjoy the scenic views surrounding Bethel and Sunday River.

July: Caregiver Weekend Experience

Caregivers play an essential role in supporting our students and programs, and this special weekend is designed just for them.

The Caregiver Weekend Experience offers time to relax, recharge, and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment. Participants will enjoy outdoor activities, shared meals, meaningful conversations, and opportunities for both adventure and quiet reflection.

Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors or simply take a break from daily responsibilities, this weekend is designed to provide space for restoration and community.

August: Paddling and Hiking Adventure

August’s Mountain Center Adventure combines two favorite outdoor activities—paddling and hiking.

The day begins on the calm waters of Bryant Pond before participants stop at Bryant Pond 4-H Camp for lunch. In the afternoon, the group will head to Bucks Ledge to explore the Trail for All and enjoy sweeping mountain views.

This adventure offers a wonderful opportunity to experience both land and water while enjoying wildlife, fresh air, and the natural beauty of Western Maine.

September: Bethel Cycling and Mountain Biking Adventure

We’ll close out the season with another cycling-focused adventure through the Bethel area.

Participants will enjoy scenic rides along local trails and community paths, with options available for a variety of abilities and comfort levels. Along the way, riders will experience the vibrant colors of early fall, mountain vistas, and the landscapes that make Western Maine such a special place to explore by bike.

Adventure, Community, and Connection

Mountain Center Adventures are about more than outdoor recreation. They are an opportunity to build friendships, strengthen connections, and experience the outdoors in an inclusive and supportive environment.

We are excited to welcome both familiar and new faces to the Mountain Center this summer and look forward to creating unforgettable experiences together.

For more information about Mountain Center Adventures, the Mountain Center property, or any Maine Adaptive student or volunteer programs, please contact us at info@maineadaptive.org.

We can’t wait to see you at the Mountain Center this summer.