Summer Nova

Backpacking and Hiking Trips

Summer Nova trips are offered during the six weeks leading up to the start of the fall semester. The last session is open only to those students traveling from outside of New England (the New England states include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut). These students may also opt to apply to a trip during any week of Nova if they choose to do so.

Unity College Summer Nova Hiking and Backpacking Trip

100 Mile Wilderness South Bound: Backpacking
Prior Experience Required: Yes
Exertion Level: Difficult to Extreme - must be able to carry a 40lb pack over rough terrain.
The 100 Mile Wilderness is the northern most section of the Appalachian Trail. This section is considered by many to be the most remote section of the entire AT. The trail wanders through public and private land and is characterized by the rugged terrain, pristine lakes and ponds, and amazing views. During this trip, participants will need to carry a backpack weighing approximately 40lbs over rough terrain. The journey will begin hiking to the Abol Bridge and end five days and twenty-seven miles later at Waldeigh Stream Lean-To. Each day we will set up camp and learn outdoor cooking and living skills, including Leave No Trace principles. We will also participate in a service project to benefit and preserve the park.
Dates: July 28-August 1
 
100 Mile Wilderness North Bound: Backpacking
Prior Experience Required: Yes
Exertion Level: Difficult to Extreme - must be able to carry a 40lb pack over rough terrain.
The 100 Mile Wilderness is the northern most section of the Appalachian Trail.   This section is considered by many to be the most remote section of the entire AT.   The trail wanders through public and private land and is characterized by the rugged terrain, pristine lakes and ponds and amazing views. During this trip, participants will need to carry a backpack weighing approximately 40lbs over rough terrain. The journey will begin hiking to the Waldeigh Stream Lean-To and end five days and twenty-seven miles later at Abol Bridge. Each day we will set up camp and learn outdoor cooking and living skills, including Leave No Trace principles.  We will also participate in a service project to benefit and preserve the park.
Dates: July 28-August 1
 
Camden Hills: Backpacking/Primitive Skills
Prior Experience Required: Yes
Exertion Level: Moderate - must be able to carry a 40lb pack 2.5 miles.
Camden Hills State Park overlooks beautiful Penobscot Bay. During this trip, we will backpack to Spring Brook Ski Lodge where we will use the cabin as home base.  From the ski lodge there are more than 30 miles of trails that lead through forest, hills, and mountains. Abundant wildlife make their home in and around the park including fox, coyote, and bald eagles. On this trip we will also learn about various primitive skills including: water collection, shelter building, fire making, tracking, camouflage and stalking techniques, and ways to keep oneself comfortable in the wilderness. We will spend time learning outdoor cooking and living skills, including Leave No Trace principles. We will also participate in a service project to benefit and preserve the park.  During this trip, participants will need to carry a backpack weighing approximately 40lbs approximately 2.5 miles.
Dates: August 18-22**
**Reserved for students from outside of New England only, however these students may opt to participate in a trip on any week they choose.
 
Mount Blue: Day Hiking
Prior Experience Required: No
Exertion Level: Moderate to extreme day hikes.
Mount Blue State Park is a lakeside park surrounded by the gorgeous mountains of western Maine. This popular location is ideal for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Tumbledown Mountain, Coos Canyon and Mount Blue make for fantastic day hiking. Day excursions to area waterfalls and gorges, relaxing on the sandy beach and swimming in Webb Lake are also among Unity College student favorites. We will have the opportunity to fish and will also spend time learning outdoor cooking and living skills, including Leave No Trace principles.  We will also participate in a service project to benefit and preserve the park.
 
If you choose to bring your fishing gear you will need to purchase a State of Maine fishing license and provide your own gear and artificial bait. For more information on purchasing a State of Maine fishing license, please click here
Dates: August 18-22**
**Reserved for students from outside of New England only, however these students may opt to participate in a trip on any week they choose.