Andrew Chalnick
The Allagash is for me a magical place. So close to urban areas yet so very far away. I’ve done the entire waterway many times now and I treasure each experience. Every trip down the waterway nourishes my soul. These adventures are also so important to ensure the next generation falls in love with nature so they will know to protect it.
I live in South Burlington, Vermont with my wife and four children. I feel so incredibly lucky that my entire family loves adventure and that we have had the opportunity to explore so many beautiful places as a family. We are all “Adirondack 46ers” and have all been down the Allagash. The pictures on this page are from all the trips we have taken together on the Allagash, including with my two brothers, my nephew and friends.
When I’m not in a kayak or canoe, my life is centered around my community. I am presently the vice-chair of the South Burlington City Council where I focus on policies that will address the climate crisis and ensure we develop sustainably. Prior to retiring to politics, I was a tax attorney and led the tax planning department at JP Morgan for close to 25 years. Before that I did some software engineering.
I built this guide because after many trips down the Allagash, I found myself collecting notes about the campsites, the routes, logistics, meals, equipment and things to look out for so I decided to build a resource to share my experience. My hope is that this guide will become a community resource that others who find the Allagash magical will contribute to.
Get in touch with me at achalnick@allagash-waterway.com, or check out my City Council or Facebook page. If you live nearby and want to know more, please let’s get together. And if you are adventurous and have some backcountry skills, perhaps we will plan a trip down the Allagash together!
In 1990, Allagash Ranger David Milligan wrote the following reflection on the natural character of the Waterway. More than three decades later, his words continue to capture the spirit of the Allagash.
NATURAL CHARACTER OF THE WATERWAY
As you fall asleep to the cry of a loon or are awakened by the
splashing of a feeding moose, please take a moment to appreciate the experience of the Allagash.
The Allagash offers not only adventure but also peace of mind.
The waterway has given itself to us and we must return the gift, not
only to the river but to others who come to be comforted by it.
Our presence should be unfelt. Words should be spoken in soft tones
so as not to bother others. Campsites should be left with limited sign of our activity.
Remember the wildlife, trees, and other living things are at home
and should be respected and undisturbed.
The continuance of its natural character is a gift we can return to the Allagash.