Plan Your Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you paddle. If your question isn’t answered here, give us a call or send a message — we’re always happy to talk through a trip with you.
On the River
Are there bears? Will they bother us?
Yes, there are bears in the north woods of Maine — but they have thousands of acres to roam and are not familiar with people. They run away when they detect humans. Bears are not an issue on the trips we run 99.9% of the time.
Are there showers on the river?
No showers — just plenty of water to wash up in. Biodegradable soap only, please. Water temperature varies by season: 50s in May and October, 60s in June and September, and sometimes 70s in July and August.
Are there toilets?
Yes. Most campsites we use have outhouse pit toilets, or at minimum a pit with a good seat. We provide toilet paper, but it’s worth tucking a small personal supply in your pack as well.
How do we get drinking water?
We supply all drinking water. We carry large water jugs and resupply from springs along the way, or use a gravity water filter drawing from the lakes or river.
Can I bring my cell phone?
Yes — it makes a great camera. There is no cell service in the North Maine Woods, but you’ll pick up spotty service on the drive back to Greenville from the Allagash.
What is your alcohol policy?
You’re welcome to bring your drink of choice. No glass bottles please — canned beer and boxed wine work best. Note that there’s no reliable way to keep drinks cold unless a cold spring happens to be near a campsite, so plan accordingly. Please drink in moderation; you do need to get up and paddle in the morning.
Can I bring my dog?
We love dogs, but we only allow them on custom trips. Most dogs do great — but group trips include guests who may not share your enthusiasm for your four-legged companion.
Food & Meals
What do we eat?
Our food is renowned. We cook all breakfasts and dinners over an open fire — hearty, nutritious, and diverse. A typical dinner might be marinated grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, and rice, finished with homemade strawberry shortcake. Breakfasts include bacon and scrambled eggs or buttermilk blueberry pancakes with real maple syrup, plus an assortment of organic hot cereals. We bring a reflector oven and bake breads, muffins, and desserts throughout the trip.
What about food allergies and dietary preferences?
We can handle most food requirements with ease. Just let us know in advance. In some cases we may ask you to bring a few specific items you know work for you. Some requirements — such as a fully vegan meal plan — may involve a small additional cost.
Is there coffee?
Yes — Chip’s woodsman coffee at breakfast every morning. It’s become something of a legend among repeat guests.
Fitness & Age
Are the trips physically demanding?
Sometimes. We don’t paddle from dawn to dusk and build in plenty of downtime for swimming, fishing, hiking, and relaxing. That said, it’s an active week — paddling, moving gear, setting up camp, and living outdoors — and the occasional headwind is part of the deal. The more fit you arrive, the more you’ll enjoy the trip. We recommend getting some paddling time in before you come.
What is the best age for children?
Generally six and up works well, but you know your child best. The key questions: Can they handle being outdoors for the duration of the trip? Can they get themselves dressed and tie their own shoes? Can the parent manage both their child and themselves on the water? Most kids absolutely love it — the adventure and excitement of the Allagash is hard to beat.
Logistics & Payment
Do you have dry bags we can use?
Yes, free of charge. Stop by our basecamp when you arrive in Greenville to pick up your dry bag the evening before your trip so you can pack it that night.
Where do we stay the night before the trip?
Once you submit your trip application, you’ll receive a confirmation packet that includes a list of recommended places to stay in Greenville, directions to our basecamp at 166 Scammon Rd., and everything else you need to plan your arrival.
How do I pay for my trip?
We accept personal and bank checks by mail, Venmo, and credit cards via Square. Please note that credit card payments include a 3% service charge. A $500 per person deposit is required to reserve your spot, with the balance due 30 days before departure.
Make checks payable to Allagash Canoe Trips and mail to our seasonal address:
- May – September: PO Box 932, Greenville, Maine 04441
- October – April: 3002 Cedar St., Carrabassett Valley, Maine 04947
To pay by Venmo or credit card, please call us at 207-280-1551.