Maine White Water Rafting

Maine is home to some of the most exciting white water rafting in the United States. With its incredible mountains and gigantic forests Maine offers an outstanding wilderness setting for some exciting white water rafting. Passing Mt. Katahdin, Maine's highest peak, the challenge of the Penobscot River is surpassed only by the scenery.

The Kennebec River, the most popular rafting destination in Maine, and Dead River are two of the states other prime white water rafting rivers. With big drop and steep chutes, they are sure to please even the most seasoned white water rafting enthusiast.

White Water Rafting in Maine on the Penobscot River

For real white water enthusiasts the Penobscot River, claimed to be the most exciting river in the East, offers a 12-mile run that starts with rugged Class V rapids. The trip begins in spectacular Rip o genus Gorge, where the river drops 70 feet per mile for the first two miles. Then it alternates between calm stretches and Class III-IV white water as it passes Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak. The dam-controlled river can be run all summer long, with the greatest flow in May and June.

Novices and others not seeking white water rafting in Maine can enjoy paddling the Upper West Branch of the Penobscot, a four-day, 50-mile trip between the dam at the foot of Seboomook Lake and the start of the rugged West Branch run at Rip o genus. There are no difficult rapids, no portages, and half the floating is on lakes.

Definitely not for the faint-hearted is the Dead River, a Class III-V stream that shows it is very much alive by providing the longest stretch of continuous white water in the East. This 15-mile run through a remote wilderness canyon begins at Grand Falls and ends near the village of West Forks. It can only be floated when dam water is released; the big releases come in May.

The Kennebec River, into which the Dead River flows at The Forks, boasts the largest river gorge in New England and some mighty rapids on its upstream portion. Starting at Harris Dam, adjoining Indian Pond, the Class IV-V rapids along the upper four-mile section are particularly daunting in the spring. But the remaining eight miles of this run are gentle and appealing for families with children, who may skip the upper gorge and start their float at Carry Brook.

White water rafters and fishermen can also sample Maine's 2,500 lakes which, seen from the air, gleam like jewels in the forest. The largest, of course, is Moose head Lake, which despite its many tourist facilities is still largely undeveloped and a favorite choice for anglers after trout and salmon. There are also organized "canoe safaris" for nature photographers in search of moose in the surrounding woods.

SOME TRIP SUGGESTIONS

Kennebec River -- One of Maine's most popular adventures. A full day of awesome whitewater and tranquil beauty invigorates and inspires you. Begin by plunging into the gorge with its towering canyon walls. The upper section is all action with one standing wave after another. Professional guides will navigate you through infamous rapids like 'Big Mama', 'Whitewash,' and 'Magic Falls.' Most outfitters provide a hearty riverside lunch, after which you will be invited to kick back, float, and relax, or maybe try your hand running the rapids of the lower section in an inflatable kayak. The Kennebec offers class III-V white water all season long thanks to a daily average dam release of 5,000 cubic feet per second. (Cfs) Spring offers the biggest water and lowest rates. Summer is the most popular season offering warm water and big waves. (Book early as the State of Maine limits the number of passengers, to preserve this wild resource from over use). Fall brings the return of lower rates and brilliant colors. So no matter when you go, this 14 mile river trip offers great rafting for first timers and seasoned paddlers alike. Most outfitters have a minimum suggested age requirement for the gorge of 13 years. Younger participants and those interested in class III whitewater can board the boats below the gorge in time to join the others for lunch.

Dead River -- Rafting the Dead is a unique privilege thanks to scheduled dam releases only selected dates. This exhilarating class III-V run is just plain fun, with16 miles of almost nonstop action including memorable rapids like 'Hayden’s Landing' and 'Poplar Falls.' Most outfitters feed you a snack beforehand and a hearty lunch at the end of the journey. Again, most outfitters have a minimum suggested age of 15 years for The Dead River. Each of the following dates lists the 'cfs'- cubic feet per second, being released that day. Popular big water dates fill fast so doesn’t be left high and dry.