Tired of diversions that go blink, bonk and bang? In search of a cool change? Consider the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT), the longest recreational paddling trail in the country. It runs from Old Forge in New York, up through Vermont, Québec, New Hampshire and on to Fort Kent in Maine. It’s 740 miles of fascination, and – if you prepare properly – a riverine passageway to peace.
Here are some suggestions from the NFCT on what to do along the way:
- Marvel at the New England sunset at Doe Campsite, along the banks of the Missisquoi River.
- Keep your senses sharp for the appearance of wildlife along Maine’s Allagash River. Don’t be surprised to see moose, bear and otters.
- Skinny dip (discreetly of course) in one of New York’s Saranac Lakes. Keep a large towel handy.
- Chow down at Joey’s Junction in Highgate Center, Vermont. The breakfasts are bodacious, and the servings really sumptuous.
- Take a day trip along the Upper Ammonoosuc River from Milan to Stark in New Hampshire. Savor the journey. Cut it out and paste it in the scrapbook of your soul. Pull it out when things get painful, and then press replay.
- Vacation with the family at Flagstaff Lake up in Maine. Spend the last night of that trip in Flagstaff Hut.
- Seek out the trail’s best portage site. It’s Brown’s Tract, from New York’s Eighth Lake to Raquette Lake.
- Behold the birds, listen to their summer songs, along Vermont’s Clyde River.
- Finish off your adventure by washing off the grime and dirt at Fort Kent’s Northern Door Inn. A long, hot shower – followed up by a proper sleep – is sublime.
Sweet dreams are made of this.
(Image: Lee Cannon)
