Sideline Stories: Alicia Heyburn, Executive Director, Teens to Trails

What’s the difference between sports and recreation? What is the difference between play and learning? My favorite activities are considered both sports and recreation, and I learn best while being playful. But there is one aspect that is not blended – it all happens OUTSIDE!

At this time of year, when the afternoon light is golden, the daytime temperatures are mild, and the ocean has been warmed by a long hot summer, my favorite activity is sea kayaking. I consider kayaking pure recreation – there are no rules, referees, boundaries or goals aside from staying afloat while watching seaweed wave in the swells, and navigating shoals and coves that larger boats can’t access. Kayaking also has the benefit of being transportation to an oceanfront vacation – where do you want to go? 

My boat has space at the bow and stern to store a tent, sleeping bag, food, ample fresh water, my hammock, a good book, warm clothes and a bottle of wine. Pair that capacity with a chart, tide table, a good weather app and the Maine Island Trail Guide, and I’ve got all I need for an excellent weekend. 

I got my first kayak about 25 years ago. It was a used banana yellow rental boat from L.L.Bean. And I mean used. The plastic hull was as rough as the barnacles it had been dragged across – and it consistently wanted to turn to starboard because the sun softened the hull. Five years later I upgraded to a boat that cut through the water in a straight line, no matter the weather conditions. That boat took me places, and at each place I met interesting people. Paddling the way I do it is like walking or jogging – I always maintain conversation pace so I can chat with others. I often post or host a trip on MeetUp so I can have the safety, and enjoyment of a group. The paddling community is not large, and over the years it’s been fun to build friendships, plan trips, and learn from each other’s adventures. 

I’ve always loved being outdoors, but I’ve grown as an outdoor leader because of kayaking. Last summer I got my third boat, I’ve been a Maine Guide for 5 years, I spent the winter studying oyster and seaweed aquaculture so I could better understand the changes that I see on our working waterfront, I’ve been a Wilderness First Responder for 7 years, a sea kayak trip leader, and volunteer-led many outings for organizations that want to offer a sea level perspective. And as the Executive Director of Teens to Trails, I am a firm believer that Life Happens Outside® and that time outdoors with peers is critical for teenage development. It creates love and care for each other, ourselves, and our planet. I hope to see you out on the water!