The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools offer adventurous and fun learning experiences of a lifetime. The Outdoor Discovery Schools program was founded nearly 30 years ago as a way to help L.L.Bean customers enjoy unique outdoor experiences and get the most out of their equipment purchases. Today courses, trips and tours are offered throughout the year in such areas as kayaking, fly-fishing, wingshooting, women’s courses, bike tours, weekend adventures and more. Since 1979, L.L.Bean has made it easy and fun to enjoy outdoor adventures with a variety of exciting activities available in some of America’s most beautiful locations. Whether trying something new, adding to existing experience or simply enjoying the beauty of the outdoors, L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools has an activity made for everyone.

Expert Instructors-

All of the the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools instructors are experts in their field. They are Registered Guides and some of the best in the industry. Not only are they proficient in their respective fields, they also make enjoying a new outdoor activity or learning new skills fun and rewarding.

L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools

Casco Bay, Maine, Island-Hopping Kayak Trip 

Location: Freeport, Maine

2008 Dates: July 18-20; August 22-24; September 12-14.  

There are so many islands in Casco Bay, Maine, that they are known as the Calendar Islands, one for every day of the year. This special part of the world offers spectacular scenery, fascinating historic landmarks and a glimpse into a way of life virtually unchanged in the past 100 years. Imagine experiencing the Maine coast while paddling at a leisurely pace, traveling as the Native Americans did centuries ago. Gulls and osprey soar overhead while gliding past forested islands, ledges where seals often stop to rest, and plenty of sandy beaches. Guests can experience all this and more on the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools Casco Bay, Maine, Island-Hopping Kayak Trip. Expert guides will enhance appreciation of the surroundings with their extensive knowledge of plants, animals and local history. Guests will spend one night at the L.L.Bean ODS island base camp and another at a charming island bed-and-breakfast on Long Island. Visit with working lobstermen and enjoy a clambake with traditional Maine lobsters, or a steak dinner; afterwards, sit back and stargaze as night descends on the bay. Highlights of this trip include a tour of Eagle Island, home of famous Arctic explorer Admiral Peary, which is now a museum. This ultimate three-day paddling excursion will introduce adventurers to just a few of the prolific Calendar islands– and leave them wanting more.  Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Activity level is easy to moderate.

Walk-On Adventures are a perfect way to spend the day learning something new or building on existing skills!  Select L.L.Bean retail stores offer a selection of activities called "Walk-On Adventures," which allow everyone to experience and enjoy the basics of a sport in a brief 1½ to 2½ hour experience. Choose from kayaking, archery, clay shooting, fly casting, GPS techno treasure hunting, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and more.

All activities are available on a regional and seasonal basis at L.L.Bean stores in Freeport, Maine; Tysons Corner, Virginia; Columbia, Maryland; West Lebanon, New Hampshire; Marlton, New Jersey; Burlington, Massachusetts; Mansfield, Massachusetts; Albany, New York; South Windsor, Connecticut; and Center Valley, Pennsylvania.

All necessary equipment is provided. Participants need simply come in to the store and sign up on the day of the program. Cost is just $15. No prior registration is necessary. For clay shooting, children must be 12 years old to participate. All other Walk-On Adventures are available to children ages 8 and up. 

The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools weekend vacation adventures are designed for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors together. Create happy memories by biking, paddling, or simply spending time by the campfire. Expert staff will provide guests with the skills needed to make each adventure rewarding - and in turn participants are introduced to an exciting, unique outdoor experience.

The Gourmet Food served on all ODS adventures is sure to please everyone - from those with a sophisticated palate to those who enjoy simpler tastes. The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools takes great pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and serves locally grown food whenever possible. From the “surf and turf” boiled Maine lobster with Black Angus beef steak, to Cajun seasoned chicken; this is food that is a notch above the rest.What to do if your child doesn’t want something so fancy? For the kids hotdogs and hamburgers are offered alongside the gourmet choices for the adults.

Adventurous Vacations in Maine

Casco Bay, Maine,  Island-Hopping Kayak Trip

Save the date for this New for 2008 Calendar Islands adventure! There are so many islands in Casco Bay, Maine, that they are known as the Calendar Islands, one for every day of the year. This special part of the world offers spectacular scenery, fascinating historic landmarks and a glimpse into a way of life virtually unchanged over the past 100 years. Imagine experiencing the Maine coast while paddling at a leisurely pace, traveling as the Native Americans did centuries ago. Gulls and osprey soar overhead while gliding past forested islands, ledges where seals often stop to rest, and plenty of sandy beaches. Expert guides will enhance appreciation of the surroundings with their extensive knowledge of plants, animals and local history. Guests will spend one night at the L.L.Bean ODS island base camp and another at a charming island bed-and-breakfast on Long Island. Visit with working lobstermen and enjoy a clambake with traditional Maine lobsters, or a steak dinner. Afterwards, sit back and stargaze as night descends on the bay. Highlights of this trip include a tour of Eagle Island, home of famous Arctic explorer Admiral Peary, which is now a museum. This ultimate three-day paddling excursion will introduce adventurers to just a few of the prolific Calendar islands– and leave them wanting more. 2008 Dates: July 18-20; August 22-24; September 12-14.  Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Activity level is easy to moderate.

Island Kayak Camping Trip on Casco Bay 

Amplify summer fun with this unique kayak camping adventure.Don’t just take a vacation this summer, have an adventure to remember! Take in the beauty of the Maine coast from comfortable, tandem kayaks and watch osprey and gulls wheel overhead while exploring the natural beauty of Casco Bay and Freeport Maine on this Island Kayak Camping Trip on Casco Bay, offered by the L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools. Experienced guides lead at a relaxing pace on this three-day escape. Guests will enjoy a day trip to Eagle Island on this scenic tour through the islands of Casco Bay. Other highlights include a traditional Maine lobster bake and countless opportunities for wildlife viewing in the breathtaking surroundings. This is a unique Maine outdoor adventure opportunity that's not to be missed.  

Camping by kayak offers a true retreat from congested highways, and boasts beautiful natural rest stops from the water and beaches. Casco Bay surrounding Portland is a great place to paddle because it provides easy access to uninhabited islands without going very far. Each day is spent learning new kayaking skills as well as enjoying the scenery. Evenings are spent at the L.L.Bean base camp for a hearty dinner and plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings. No previous paddling or camping experience necessary. All kayaking and camping gear is included. 2008 Dates: July 11-13, 25-27; August 1-3, 8-10, 15-17; September 5-7. Minimum age is 12. Activity Level is easy to moderate.

Maine Coastal Camping Bike Tour

Picturesque scenes abound as cyclists amble along Maine coast. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience the joy of the great outdoors this summer, while actively taking in the beautiful landscape of the Maine coast. Maine's coastal and country roads offer an exciting vacation opportunity for cyclists. Join knowledgeable guides to experience the best Maine has to offer – from beautiful coastal vistas to lush fields and farmlands. Explore historic villages, working harbors, farms and much more. Cruise the rocky coast and rolling country of beautiful Maine; the pace will be leisurely with plenty of time to stop and take in all the experiences the Maine coast has to offer. LL Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Schools’ Maine Coastal Camping Bike Tour offers a two-day weekend excursion geared toward outdoor fun. Carefully selected and vehicle supported, scenic bike routes take participants to stunning ocean views, charming villages, and harbors bustling with sailboats and fishing vessels. Guests will camp in the comfort of a private waterfront campground in Freeport, where a traditional Maine lobster bake will be served. After dinner, enjoy the summer sunset and watch the stars come out over the bay. All will look forward to bathrooms with hot showers, dry tents set up on level platforms, comfortable cots and cozy sleeping bags. Bikes and safety equipment are provided for ease and enjoyment.  2008 Dates: July 12-13, 19-20, 26-27; August 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24; September 6-7, 13-14.  Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Activity level is easy to moderate.

Belgrade Lakes Canoe Camping Trip

The beautiful Belgrade Lakes region of Maine has been a popular vacation destination to those in the know for centuries. This stunning area boasts a chain of seven pristine lakes connected by forest streams, and is best enjoyed at a pace that allows one to truly take in the beautiful surroundings. Imagine paddling a canoe and camping overnight, guided by those who know this area best. No need to think about what to cook, because each gourmet meal is prepared while adventurers are off exploring, sleeping in, or simply taking in the abundant nature. Everyone will look forward to summer fun in the water and more on this weekend trip offered through the L.L.Bean ODS. Dine on epicurean camp cuisine prepared by expert paddling guides who will do it all in addition to helping adventurers with canoeing techniques and more. This is a unique and exciting outdoor experience that young and old alike are sure to enjoy.  There is no prerequisite for this excursion. 2008 Dates: July 5-6, 19-20; August 2-3, 9-10. Participants must be a minimum of 6 years old. Activity level is easy.

Adventurous Vacations in Maryland and Virginia

Chesapeake Bay Island-Hopping Kayak Trip

Unique weekend adventure is just an ‘island-hop’ away.Leave the car and busy roads behind for the weekend and be guided on a delightfully unforgettable journey where stunning vistas and abundant wildlife await just beyond the water’s edge. Join the L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools Chesapeake Bay Island-Hopping Kayak Tour  and say goodbye to the weekday woes while exploring historic and scenic Chesapeake Bay. Slip into a stable tandem sea kayak, and paddle 12 miles off shore at a comfortable pace among remote, pristine islands while accomplished guides lead the way through conditions ranging from gentle marsh and tributary waters to extended open-water crossings. The trip begins with a ferry ride to Smith Island, Maryland, at the edge of Tangier Sound, where the traditional culture of the Bay’s watermen still thrives. From there guests will paddle a chain of remote Islands to Tangier Island, Virginia before returning by ferry to the mainland. The first evening will be spent camping at a secluded island site where guests enjoy a dinner of authentic Chesapeake specialties, such as blue crabs, oysters, and the island’s famous layer cakes. Comfortable tents and sleeping bags are provided for guests’ night out under the stars. The second night will be spent at a charming island inn with even more culinary delights on the menu. Other highlights include the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s environmental education centers at Tylerton and Port Isobel where visitors can learn more about the bay’s intriguing history. There is no prerequisite necessary for this trip. 2008 Dates: July 18-20; August 15-17; September 5-7, 19-21. Minimum age is 12. Activity level is easy to moderate.

Portland Harbor Kayak Tours are scenic, stable and serene at sea level. Glide through Casco Bay in view of lighthouses and lobster boats while catching glimpses of seals and other wildlife. The best view of the city is from the harbor, and there is time to truly savor the surroundings from a kayak when joining the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools Portland Harbor Kayak Tour. Take along both grandma and the kids on this family friendly, environmentally conscious way to see the Bay; this 90 minute tour will fit easily into a day of sightseeing. This unique tour of the harbor is geared to be a relaxing, enjoyable and informative water experience. This scenic region offers crystal clear water, stunning scenery and the opportunity to learn about the variety of wildlife that lives in the area. It's a photographer's dream and nature lover's paradise. No prior kayaking experience is needed. Stable two-person kayaks are easy to paddle, and all necessary equipment is supplied. 2008 Dates: May 24, 25, 26, 31; June 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22; Daily from June 28 to September 8; September 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28; October 4, 5, 11, 12, 13. Minimum age for participants is ten years old. Activity Level is easy. Half-Day, Scenic Sunset, Moonlight, Fall Foliage, and Women’s Wednesdays Kayak tours also available.

Kayaking activities range from basic skills development and safety to enhanced paddling strokes and boat handling. Kayaking courses and tours introduce participants to this ecologically friendly and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors. One, two and three day courses with small groups allow all kayakers to focus on improving efficiency, stability and steering. By improving strength in these areas confidence will grow as well as comfort on the water.

The first class in a series of instruction offered by L.L.Bean is for aspiring paddlers who are looking for basic introduction to the exciting world of kayaking. This Kayak Touring Essentials I: Basic Skills Development and Safety course will allow ample time to practice advanced rescue and towing techniques as well as time to learn the paddling and safety skills necessary to explore the open water with other experienced kayakers. For women who would prefer learning in an all female environment, the Outdoor Discovery Schools offer a Women's Kayak Touring Essentials I: Basic Skills Development and Safety course.

Improve paddling efficiency and steering capabilities in the Kayak Touring Essentials II: Advanced Strokes, Braces, and Efficient Boat Handling course. By fine-tuning kayak-handling skills, paddlers find themselves more confident and adept on the water. Leaning and sculling techniques will help take kayaking skills to the next level. Again, the Outdoor Discovery Schools offer an all women environment option in their Women's Kayak Touring Essentials II: Advanced Strokes, Braces, and Efficient Boat Handling course.

Get expert instruction in the paddling and navigation skills needed to explore open water in a kayak with the added benefit of a guided tour surrounded by beautiful scenery when you join the Kayak Touring Essentials III: Open Water Paddling course.

Whether navigating through Maine's unforgettable Casco Bay or spectacular Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, paddlers will practice advanced rescue and towing techniques. It's a day of fun and education that will help everyone get more out of future kayaking adventures.

Each kayaker is encouraged to take a private Kayak Touring Essentials IV:  Rolling Techniques course. This course provides individualized instruction designed to increase each participant's level of kayak proficiency, while continuing to build confidence and skill. Experienced instructors will lead paddlers through the proper form for rolling, review hip snaps, wet exits and other skills in need of refining. A video analysis provides a detailed review of body mechanics and technique. This lesson can be one-on-one with an instructor or participants can enroll their entire group.

For avid kayakers, Kayak Touring Essentials V:  Surf Zone is a must.  Whether taking frequent day trips on the open water or  preparing for an extended expedition, this lesson provides practical experience so paddlers can travel more efficiently and confidently. This course will provide individualized instruction with plenty of on-water practice time. This lesson can also be one-on-one with an instructor or participants can enroll their entire group.
 

Whether a beginner or experienced fly angler, the courses and fly-fishing trips will help to gain confidence in fly fishing, which adds to enjoyment. Highlights of the courses include: instruction in casting; reading the water; knot tying; equipment selection; fly tying; wading and safety. There is plenty of on-stream time with the instructor as well as time to fish alone. The small class size gives us the flexibility to address the individual needs and interests of the participants.

Fly-Fishing Essentials program allows anglers at all levels to select the courses suitable to their skills and interests. The expert instructors provide hands-on, personal guidance to help develop the skills that can be used in the sport of fly fishing for years to come. Fly-Fishing spans genders and generations and holds an allure and graceful appeal to many. Begin in a fun and relaxed atmosphere in a premiere fly-fishing state, with skilled instructors that number among them some of the foremost authors and experts in their field. Learn the basics of the exciting sport of fly-fishing when participating in either the Fly-Fishing Essentials I: Half-Day Basic Casting Skills Course  or Fly-Fishing Essentials II: Two-Day Introductory Course, both offered through the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools.

In Essentials I, practice the four-part cast, false cast, and roll cast. Stripping and shooting line will be explained as well as the basics of tying fishing knots. The Essentials II two-day course will offer participants an education that would take years to learn on one’s own. It provides all the skills beginning fly-fishing enthusiasts need to confidently get out on the water alone. The instructor-to-participant ratio enables aspiring anglers to receive plenty of individual attention, and includes fishing time on a private pond stocked with rainbow trout. Both courses are offered in Freeport, Maine; Essentials I is offered in Columbia, Maryland, and Essentials II in Front Royal, Virginia. All Essentials I classes are offered in the morning (from 8:30 – 12:30) unless otherwise specified.

2008 Essentials I Dates in Maine: April 26(morning & afternoon); May 10, 24; June 7, 21; July 5, 20(afternoon), 26; August 2 (afternoon); Sept. 6, 20 (morning & afternoon).  2008 Essentials I Dates in Maryland: July 26, 27; August 9. 2008 Essentials II Dates in Maine:  May 3-4, 17-18, 31-June1; June 14-15, 28-29; July 12-13; Aug. 30-31; Sept. 13-14.  2008 Essentials II Dates in Virginia: April 19-20; May 24-25; September 27-28; October 4-5.

A select number of ‘Women’s-only’ Fly-Fishing Essentials I Courses are also being offered. 2008 Women’s-only Dates in Maine: June 8, 22; July 19(afternoon). 2008 Women’s-only Dates in Maryland: June 28. There is no prerequisite for this course, the activity level is easy, and the minimum age for participants is 12.

For those wanting to learn the advanced-casting techniques that will add distance to casts, the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools offers Fly-Fishing Essentials III: Half-Day Distance and Advanced Casting Techniques in Freeport, Maine. This is the ideal course for the angler looking to increase accuracy and delicacy when trout fishing and to increase distance for saltwater species, such as striped bass, tarpon and bonefish. It's an excellent way to prepare for a pending fishing trip to the tropics! Participants should first take Fly Fishing Essentials I Course or have comparable experience level. Minimum age for participants in this class is 14. Activity level is easy. 2008 Dates in Maine: May 10, 24; June 7, 21; July 5; September 6.

Anglers that wish to learn the skills needed to enjoy the exciting sport of striper fishing—skills that will also prepare sport fisherman to fish other saltwater game fish such as bonefish, tarpon, and redfish- will want to enroll in the Fly-Fishing Essentials IV: Striper Fishing Course offered in Freeport, Maine. There's no better classroom than Maine's southern coast. Large schools of striped bass cruise our coastal waters from May to October. This annual migration makes Maine one of the most popular destinations for striper fishing on the East Coast. The natural surroundings are as impressive as the fishing. Participant’s afternoon classroom will be spent at a scenic beach in Scarborough. Participants should have some prior fly-fishing experience. Minimum age for participants in this class is 14. Activity level is easy to moderate. 2008 Dates in Maine: July 19, 20; August 2, 3.

The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools offer Private Fly-Casting lessons in both Freeport, Maine and Columbia, Maryland, and Private Spey-Casting lessons in Maine.

The L.L.Bean ODS Local Guides Allow Anglers to Keep Eyes on the Prize.

Casco Bay, Maine, is home to large schools of stripers throughout the summer and into the fall. These feisty predators put tackle to the test and provide a spectacular day of saltwater fishing. Use specially equipped, stable fishing kayaks in pursuit of these popular game fish. Stealthy kayaks allow anglers to sneak up on feeding fish and go places where the larger boats can’t. The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools are pleased to offer Guided Saltwater Kayak Fishing trips in Maine where anglers may take advantage of fishing with local guides who are willing to share their knowledge of the best that their home waters have to offer.

Striped Bass and Bluefish Abound in Chesapeake Bay.

Fish for striped bass and bluefish when joining a Guided Saltwater Kayak Fishing trip in Maryland on historic Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake is the main nursery for most of the East Coast’s striped bass. Bass are known for their aggressive takes and tremendous fighting ability. Use specially equipped, stable fishing kayaks to pursue these rod-bending game fish. Stealthy kayaks allow anglers to sneak up on feeding fish and go places where the larger boats can’t.

Smallmouth Bass Promise Big Fun on Androscoggin River.

The Androscoggin River, about 20 minutes from Freeport, is gaining fame and popularity as a smallmouth bass fishery. This big river is surprisingly calm and easy to float. Float down the Androscoggin in a raft rowed by a registered Maine Guide when embarking on a Guided Smallmouth Bass Fishing Trip offered through the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools. The L.L.Bean ODS guides consider this one of their home waters, and happily offer guests of all abilities the chance of hooking and landing these hard-fighting smallmouth bass with expert advice and home turf knowledge. Among the advantages to anglers is the fact that rafts can sneak up on feeding fish in a way that powerboats can't. Whether anglers are looking for a fun vacation activity or wanting to take their fishing experience to the next level, this guided bass fishing trip is crafted to be exciting and action packed. All necessary gear as well as transportation to the water is provided. Activity level is easy, there is no prerequisite, and the minimum age to participate is 8.


Smallmouth Bass a Sure Thing on Patapsco River.

The Patapsco River, among other Maryland rivers, is considered a key destination for those fond of fishing for smallmouth bass. Nothing slams a fly or lure like this popular species. Use a fly or spin rod to catch powerful, leaping smallmouth – but don’t count out the largemouth, also plentiful in these waters. Float down the Patapsco in a raft rowed by a registered Maryland Guide when embarking on a Guided Smallmouth Bass Fishing Trip offered through the L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools.  All necessary gear as well as transportation to the water is provided. Activity level is easy, there is no prerequisite, and the minimum age to participate is 8.

Sporting Clays and Wingshooting

L.L.Bean Shotgun Sports Essentials allow beginners and more experienced shooters to select courses suitable to their skill level and interests. Expert shooting instructors help hunters and sport shooters alike to refine their shotgun skills and prepare for the shooting season. A unique feature of these courses is that they take place at L.L.Bean's Fogg Farm in Freeport, Maine. This location offers an excellent venue for practice, with a fully appointed Five-Stand Sporting Clays facility.

Courses available include Shotgun Sports Essentials I: Half-Day Introduction to Safety and Shooting; Women's Shotgun Sports Essentials I: Half-Day Introduction to Safety and Shooting; and Shotgun Sports Essentials II: One-Day Introductory Wingshooting.

Private Sporting Clays/Wingshooting lessons,  where expert instructors will create custom lessons tailored to specific needs, are also available . The minimum age is 10 and there is no prerequisite necessary.

The L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools hosts Five-Stand Public Shoots on a regular basis throughout the spring, summer and fall. These shoots offer an exciting opportunity for participants to hone  shootings skills and have a great time with family and friends. The five-stand sporting clays course is located at  Fogg Farm in Freeport, Maine in a tree-lined country setting. Instead of a round of golf, consider a few rounds of sporting clays!

Pick any activity from kayaking, fly fishing or clay shooting, the Women's Courses allow women to further develop sporting interests while enjoying time outdoors with peers. Courses take place at L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools locations in both Maine and Maryland, where each participant receives personal attention from expert instructors trained in meeting the specific needs of women. Basic safety gear and equipment are always provided. From learning to paddle a kayak to fly fishing and shotgun essentials, L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools provides a top quality learning environment tailored specifically for women.

Bike Tours

Maine's coastal and country roads offer an exciting vacation opportunity for cyclists. Join knowledgeable guides to experience the best Maine has to offer – from beautiful coastal vistas to lush fields and farmlands. Explore historic villages, working harbors and farms and much more. Bikes and safety equipment are provided.

Combine Biking and Camping for a true adventure this summer- Maine Coastal Camping Bike Tour

Spend two days and one night traveling along the rocky coast and the rolling countryside of picturesque Maine. The pace of this biking adventure is leisurely, with plenty of time to stop and take in all the experiences the Maine coast has to offer. The route has been carefully selected and is vehicle supported. The scenic bike routes have stunning ocean views, charming villages and harbors bustling with sailboats and fishing vessels. Stop at local docks where fresh lobster and clams are unloaded daily. The night of camping takes place in the comfort of a private waterfront campground in Freeport, where a traditional Maine lobster bake will be served. After dinner enjoy the summer sunset and watch the stars come out over the bay. The private campground is fully equipped with bathrooms and hot showers, dry tents set up on level platforms, comfortable cots and cozy sleeping bags for a night among the stars. Bikes and helmets will be provided. Minimum age of participants is 10 years old. Various dates available throughout July and August.

Family Adventures are designed for families with children to enjoy a unique experience outdoors. Create family memories while biking, camping, paddling canoes and stargazing. Choose from courses that explore backpacking basics, as well as camping and canoeing skills. Adventures take place in Maine's Belgrade Lakes Region and Casco Bay, where families will be guided by expert instructors. The expert staff provides the skills needed to make camping with the entire family safe and rewarding.

2008 Dates: July 5-6, 19-20; August 2-3, 9-10

Location: Belgrade Lakes, Maine

 Maine Coastal Camping Bike Tour

·        Two-day, one-night cycling tour through Maine's beautiful coastal and country byways

·        Expert guides offer a unique view of Maine's diverse landscape

·        Camp at waterfront campground and enjoy a delicious lobster feast

This is a wonderful weekend getaway for the whole family. Spend two days cruising the rocky coast and rolling country of beautiful Maine. The pace will be leisurely with plenty of time to stop and take in all the experiences the Maine coast has to offer. Carefully selected and vehicle supported, our scenic bike routes take you to stunning ocean views, charming villages and harbors bustling with sailboats and fishing vessels. Stop at local docks where fresh lobster and clams are unloaded daily. Your night of camping will be in the comfort of our private waterfront campground in Freeport, where a traditional Maine lobster bake will be served. After dinner enjoy the summer sunset and watch the stars come out over the bay. The private campground is fully equipped with bathrooms and hot showers, dry tents set up on level platforms, comfortable cots and cozy sleeping bag. Bikes and helmets will be provided. Participants must be at least 10 years of age.

2008 Dates: July 12-13, 19-20, 26-27; August 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24; September 6-7, 13-14

Location: Freeport, Maine

Enjoy expert L.L.Bean instruction in the tranquil setting of Virginia's pastoral mountains, Maryland's peaceful Chesapeake Bay and beautiful Columbia, Maryland. Learn the strokes necessary to navigate a sea kayak along coastal waters, or practice casting a fly to catch your first fish - or build on your existing skills. L.L.Bean's knowledgeable instructors teach the skills needed to get the most out of outdoor pursuits.

In Maryland, kayak lessons are held on Chesapeake Bay in Annapolis. Participants may learn basic skills development and safety (Essentials I); advanced strokes, braces and efficient boat handling (Essentials II); or Open Water Paddling (Essentials III). Or hop into a two-person kayak for a half-day kayak tour of the Bay - the guides will give a brief demonstration of basic strokes and techniques before you slip into the water. Women's only and private lessons are also available.

Not into paddling? Try fishing with L.L.Bean expert fisherman - practice casting while preparing to catch that first fish on a fly, or build on fishing skills on the water.

Maryland anglers can choose from Fly Fishing Essentials I, where they will learn basic casting skills, or create their own syllabus with a private fly-casting lesson. Two guided fishing trips are offered - saltwater kayak or Smallmouth Bass fishing. In Front Royal, Virginia, a two day Fly-Fishing Essentials course is offered.

For those who can't decide if they want to see Maryland or Virginia, the weekend Chesapeake Bay Island-Hopping kayak trip takes participants to Smith Island (in Maryland) and Tangier Island (in Virginia) where they get a unique view of Chesapeake Bay with the help of L.L.Bean's expert guides.

The eco-conscious will revel in their environmental element when joining an L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools trip, as the experience is green from beginning to end, and "Leave No Trace" principles are seamlessly incorporated into every offering. "Leave No Trace" practices stay true to the popular saying “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures.” L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools have been operating their exciting adventures based on this environmentally ethical principle for many years. Because of this, the ecosystems that the Outdoor Discovery Schools have been visiting for years are none the worse for wear.

L.L.Bean's commitment to the environment is stronger today than ever. For example, biodiesel is used to fuel the Outdoor Discovery Schools' fleet of buses. L.L.Bean actively supports nonprofit organizations that strive to preserve wilderness recreation areas, foster outdoor recreation, protect wildlife habitats and further conservation education, and works with the Izaak Walton League in Front Royal, Virginia and The Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Annapolis, Maryland.

Founded in 1922 as a national organization of hunters, anglers and other conservation-minded outdoor enthusiasts, the league works through volunteer, community-based action and education "to save outdoor America for future generations." It was named for 17th-century English angler-philosopher Izaak Walton, who wrote The Complete Angler. L.L.Bean has partnered with them to use the beautiful property for the The Mid-Atlantic fly-fishing school courses. For more information aobut IWLA, call 540-636-3666, or to find a chapter near you, please visit www.iwla.org.

The new environmentally acclaimed headquarters of Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is the home base for Mid-Atlantic sea-kayaking workshops. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is situated on the Bay in Annapolis, Maryland and makes a great home base because of the fantastic location and its use of green building practices like geothermic walls to reduce impact on the environment. For more than 30 years CBF, a nonprofit, member-supported organization, has worked to restore and maintain the health of the Chesapeake. To learn more about CBF call 1-888-SAVEBAY, or visit their Web site at www.cbf.org.