That shoe, a version of which is on display in the flagship L.L. Bean store here, was the start of an outfitting empire that is more than just about rugged clothing and sporting goods. The name L.L. Bean embraces the great outdoors, a bridge between commerce and activity that was first made by Bean himself.
Since the brand has come to equate getting out with actually doing something, as opposed to just looking like you're doing something, the L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery School , founded in 1979, was a natural progression. With the help of expert guides in activities like fly-fishing, kayaking, clay shooting, fishing, and biking, the magic of the outdoors, for which Maine is renowned, is packaged into easy-to-navigate experiences.
"The guides are first rate," said Chip Gray , an outdoors lover who runs the Harraseeket Inn in town. "We work closely with the school, and our guests love the experiences." The school sometimes customizes trips for a group of inn guests, one of the services it can provide.
Unlike most schools, Discovery doesn't have any walls. And the tuition won't break the bank. Not sure of your interests? It costs only $15 to dip your toe in the water -- literally -- with one of the walk-on adventures offered in summer. Available on select weekends, or daily, depending on the month, 1 1/2- to 2 1/2-hour introductions to kayaking, fly casting, archery, and clay shooting are offered. "The idea is to demystify an activity, to make it fun for somebody trying it out for the first time, or someone who is just brushing up on their skills," said Mac McKeever , who markets both the walk-on adventures, which are available at all Bean locations, and the Freeport-based Discovery School.
Jane White, a Philadelphia-area teacher who vacations often in Maine, took two walk-on adventure courses last summer. "I was the only person who signed up for this particular fly-casting seminar, so I had an hour of private instruction. The instructor was friendly and professional. I'd do it again in a heartbeat."
