Inspiration comes in many forms. Some people are inspired by a problem they identify and want to solve, some are inspired by the beauty in the world around them, and some are inspired by the experiences that shape who they are.
The inspiration for FreshMaps came through family, which is something that founder Michelle Girasole has always greatly valued. During a visit to Bar Harbor, Maine, at Hadley's Point Campground, owned by her cousin, Allison Kelley, Michelle first encountered the Acadia Amazing Race.
The race was the brainchild of Allison's sister, Kristin McIntire, who got the idea after enjoying a costumed road rally with some of her friends. At the time, Kristin was running the events for the campground and realized that a version of a road rally- one that challenged campers to solve clues that would bring them to discover various scenic spots and local businesses in Acadia National Park and around Mount Desert Island - would be a hit.
Sure enough, over a decade later, the Acadia Amazing Race is still going strong. Many of the same families compete in the race every year, specifically booking their camping reservations for the weekend in August when it takes place.
Michelle has participated in several of the races over the years and sees it as a highlight of those summers. She says, "I loved going to new places around Mt. Desert Island and surrounding areas, visiting places that the locals love, as well as parks, gardens, museums, and especially the small businesses. Memorable moments for me include stopping for those cinnamon rolls at Sugar Bakery, or trying lobster ice cream at Ben and Bill's in downtown Bar Harbor. The exploration of it all inspired me to create FreshMaps to offer similar experiences here in Rhode Island." 
While the Acadia Amazing Race is largely technology-free due to the many dead zones on MDI, FreshMaps provides users with the ease of the digital experience while exploring Rhode Island's natural beauty and local communities.
For more information about the Acadia Amazing Race, visit the Hadley's Point Campground website. For more information about FreshMaps' experiences, check out our available maps.
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