Appalachian Mountain Club’s Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins is a wilderness destination offering unlimited hiking, skiing, and paddling opportunities within a 66,000-acre conservation and recreation area in the heart of Maine’s rugged North Country. The hub is AMC’s eco-friendly lodge, which has all the amenities a family could want: hot showers, restrooms, dining room, a woodstove, comfy leather chairs, books and games, warm drinks, snacks galore, and a beautiful view of Long Pond and the mountains beyond. While day-use guest are welcome, this destination’s remoteness calls for an extended visit. Eight private, cozy log cabins dot the picturesque shoreline, and cabin rental includes meals and unlimited access to canoes and trails.

In front of the lodge, a flotilla of canoes awaits, along with paddles and life vests for the whole family. This is excellent frog-catching territory, and the views are top-notch. The Barren-Chairback Range rises just beyond the pond while, to the north, the White Cap Range dominates the skyline. Rise early to try catching a glimpse of moose that occasionally visit the shoreline.

Launch from the dock and head out to explore. The clean, clear pond stretches for 3.0 miles, harbors native brook trout, and is dotted with several small islands for adventurous families to circumnavigate. Once on the water, head west, pass the second island, and hang a left. Directly behind the island is a half-moon cove with a lovely sandy beach on the left, a mere 0.5 mile from the dock. Here, you’ll find picnic tables and calm waters, perfect for an afternoon swim.

Multiple trails of varying lengths and difficulties leave from the lodge. On-site staff members are happy to talk through which trails best suit your family’s interests and abilities. Our favorite is 0.3-mile Hermit Point Nature Trail. Older kids can hike the trail themselves, feeling like independent adventurers as they trek through the woods and follow the curve of the inlet around to Hermit Point.

The closest large town is Greenville (20 miles away), where you will find ample provisions. Remember: there is no fuel available once you leave the state highways.