Beyond the Allagash and St. John, Maine’s rivers offer extraordinary variety — from gentle family paddles on the West Branch of the Penobscot to challenging whitewater on the East Branch, and everything in between. All trips are guided by Registered Maine Guides with decades of experience.
Maine’s interior is laced with rivers that most people never see. Some follow the route Henry David Thoreau paddled more than 150 years ago. Others cut through country so remote that moose outnumber humans on any given day. Whether you’re looking for a gentle first canoe-camping experience or a multi-day technical whitewater challenge, there’s a Maine river that fits.
Some of these trips run on a scheduled basis — contact us to find out what’s available this season. All are also available on a custom basis. Our guides know these rivers intimately and will help you choose the right trip for your ability level and interests.
A detailed packing list is included in your confirmation packet. See Prep & Packing List →
Also see the Allagash Wilderness Waterway trips and St. John River trip.
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Beginner to Intermediate · Adults $1,550 · Kids (15 & under) $1,350
The scenic upper West Branch of the Penobscot River from Lobster Lake to Chesuncook Lake makes an ideal first canoe-camping experience and an excellent family trip. Moose sightings are usually plentiful as we paddle this gentle river, following part of Thoreau’s legendary canoe route into the Maine woods. Several miles of class I rips provide an introduction to river-reading, and our river campsite is a perfect spot for learning to use a setting pole. Chesuncook Lake, with its sweeping view of Mt. Katahdin and a visit to historic Chesuncook Village, is one of our favorite places to camp, swim, explore, and pick berries. On a windy day you’ll be challenged by Chesuncook’s waves; on a calm morning you may find yourself mesmerized by miles of perfectly reflected landscape.
Novice to Advanced · Adults $1,500 · Kids (15 & under) $1,250
Originating in beautiful glacier-carved Spednic Lake and flowing south along the border between Maine and New Brunswick, the St. Croix River offers an abundance of easy whitewater, scenic campsites, and beautiful sunrises on glacial lakes. The rapids are exhilarating but not intimidating — making this a fantastic river for learning or brushing up on whitewater skills. Excellent smallmouth bass fishing, wildlife viewing, and the occasional encounter with a friendly snapping turtle. A great adventure for families and groups of all experience levels.
Intermediate to Advanced · 4–7 Days · Custom rates apply
The East Branch reminds us of Canadian rivers — numerous rapids, falls, and short portages through dramatic north woods scenery. Trips of varying lengths can be arranged from several different access points. The longest begins at Telos Lake and includes advanced class III rapids and falls on Webster Stream that require portaging and lining. Below Grand Lake Matagamon there are short portages around four beautiful falls, dramatic mountain views, and class II–III whitewater and ledge drops that will challenge even experienced paddlers. The East Branch offers a genuine wilderness adventure with a more technical character than the Allagash.
Beginner to Intermediate · 3–4 Days · Custom rates apply
The upper Moose River meanders slowly for miles through prime wildlife habitat, punctuated by several short ledge drops and rapids that can be portaged or lined if necessary. Beautiful Holeb Falls is a highlight, and surprising mountain vistas appear and reappear as the river winds its way to Attean Pond. The Moose River Bow Trip makes an excellent 3–4 day trip, well-suited for families and small groups. An optional hike up nearby Sally Mountain provides an encompassing view of this unique and scenic region. A wonderful introduction to canoe camping in the Maine woods without the demands of longer trips.
Custom trip rates are $375/person/day for 1–4 day trips and $350/person/day for 5–7 day trips, with a 5-person minimum. Groups of 8 or more may be eligible for a discounted rate, especially in May, June, or September. A $500/person deposit is required to reserve a trip. Contact us to start planning.
“My family and I have had three memorable and distinctly wonderful canoe trips over the last 10 years.”
— Guest review, allagashcanoetrips.com
Not sure which trip fits your group? That’s exactly what we’re here for. We’ve been guiding on these rivers since 1953 and know each one intimately — the character of the water, the wildlife you’re likely to see, the campsites worth lingering at, and the stretches that will push your skills in the best possible way.
Call us or send a message and we’ll help you match the right river to your group’s ability, interests, and schedule.
All of our Maine river trips are available on a custom basis. We’d love to help you find the right river for your group — give us a call or send a message.
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