Invite 143 // Nov 4

It’s vitamin D season, folks.

Not in the fun, day-at-the-beach sort of way, but more in the 4:30 sunset, vitamin-deficient way.

The incentives for getting outside this time of year are weaker. I still get out for weekend hikes and night runs, but for the most part I’m taking it easy and preparing for winter.

In another life, that might have meant chopping wood or canning the last of the harvest. In my apartment-dwelling life, it just means doing a few things now to set my winter self up for more fun. Historically, that’s looked like planning a hut-to-hut trip, buying microspikes, joining a FB group for xc skiing, or finding used skis at a ski swap. The result is a love for winter that grows each year.

It’s a beauty out there today, so go outside. But when the next dark November day hits, do something for your future winter self.

✌️ Max

The WinterKids Passport helps families explore winter in Maine with free and discounted junior admission offers at over 50 locations statewide. One family membership unlocks a season full of opportunities for each eligible child to try skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, skating, and more. Sign up at www.winterkids.org/passport​

Reach 1,000+ Maine outdoor enthusiasts while supporting a community resource. View sponsorship opportunities.

First Tracks: Northeast Snow Show

Sat, Nov 7 - Sun, Nov 8 | Paid

Hosted by Maine Outdoor Brands

Kick off winter with gear demos, ski passes, a kids zone and raffles, plus free Black Mountain lift tickets for the first 300 entrants each day. I'll be there both days volunteering. Say hey.

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Cranksgiving

Sat, Nov 7 | Donation Based

Hosted by Bicycle Coalition of Maine

Pedal between stops on a bike-powered scavenger hunt to buy groceries for a local food pantry, then celebrate at a brewery.

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ACT Trail Fest

Sat, Nov 7 | Paid

Hosted by Arundel Conservation Trust

Run or walk a 5K, 10K, or half marathon on community trails with a free kids bike race, live music, and post-race food included.

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Tails on the Trail

Sun, Nov 8 | Paid

Hosted by Great Works Regional Land Trust

Hike with your dog on a self-timed fundraiser walk that supports local dog rescue and trail stewardship, with safety gear and treats provided.

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Orienteering & Scavenger Hunt

Sun, Nov 8 | Paid

Hosted by Up North Orienteers

Try orienteering, a navigation sport where you use a map to find orange flags hidden in the woods, with easy trail routes for newcomers and instructors to teach the basics.

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Bold Coast Bash

Sun, Nov 8 | Paid

Hosted by Bold Coast Runners

You're probably not signing up for one of Maine's toughest 50ks on a whim, but there's still time to register for the 10.5-mile trail race along the coastal cliffs of the Cutler Coast.

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Salamander Monitoring

Sat, Nov 14 | Free

Hosted by Viles Arboretum

Search for red-backed salamanders at Viles Arboretum and learn to identify, handle, and record data on these indicator species.

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Turkey Ride

Sat, Nov 14 | Donation-Based

Hosted by Maine Sport Outfitters

Cycle from Rockport to Hannaford to pick up turkeys and deliver them to Camden Area Christian Food Pantry.

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Knight's Pond Preserve 400-Footer Hike

Sun, Nov 15 | Free

Hosted by Royal River Conservation Trust

Hike two summits on a 2.5-mile loop with volunteer guides and add peaks to your "400-Footer Club" list while taking in views of Knight's Pond.

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Where Turkeys Tread

Sun, Nov 15 | Paid

Hosted by Wells Reserve

Track wild turkeys along the trails with a Maine Master Naturalist to learn their communication methods, daily habits, and identify feathers and footprints.

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Mt. Agamenticus to Highland Farm Preserve Guided Hike

Sun, Nov 15 | Donation-based

Hosted by York Land Trust

Hike five miles downhill from the summit of Mt. Agamenticus to Highland Farm Preserve with a guide who explains the ecology of this critical wildlife corridor, with shuttle transport included.

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Better with friends. Some of life's greatest outdoor experiences are best shared. Forward this newsletter to a friend to inspire your next group adventure.

Coming Up (Previously Featured)

​Good Times Roll Rollerski Race | Sun, Nov 8 | Paid​

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Hey, I'm Max. I created the Maine Outsider to help people connect with organizations offering outdoor events and experiences around the state.

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Thanks for reading. Now, get out there!