White Water Rafting Maine

Whitewater Rafting in Maine

2015-06-17T01:05:00.000-05:00

Do you want an experience you will never forget? If so, it is time to discover the exhilarating, heart-pounding and adrenaline pumping outdoor adventure of whitewater rafting. What better place to explore the waters than in Maine. Usually when someone mentions "whitewater rafting", our thoughts go to the rivers of Colorado, California, and the west. It is not a secret that Maine, as well as other New England states are packed with world-renowned rivers.

Three main rivers in Maine that will provide you with years of whitewater fun are the Penobscot River, the Kennebec River and the Dead River. You might think that whitewater rafting is just for wild and crazy people. Think again. There are adventures ready and waiting to be had by everyone; young to old and beginner to pro. Take your family to one of these great spots and they will remember the thrills for a lifetime!

Hopefully what I am setting out to do here is give you important information you will need when considering a whitewater rafting trip. Not only will I focus on Maine, but will also look at whitewater rafting in other states and countries as well.

If you have never considered whitewater rafting as an option, it is time to take a chance. Thousands of people each year flock to whitewater rivers, knowing that it is truly awesome to live on the edge, even if just a little. Happy rafting to you and yours!

Colorado Adventure - White-water Rafting and Kayaking

2010-04-28T20:06:00.000-05:00

White-water rafting and kayaking: They define Colorado adventure, help forge friendships and, right now, are roaring into action. Thanks to this winter’s snow, Colorado’s 13 river systems are in tiptop shape for the state’s white-water season.

The rivers change in shape and feel each year because of the melted snow, or run-off. So water-lovers keep coming back each season for more surprises. From families seeking mellow float trips to experienced, death-defying thrill-seekers, people from all walks of life flex their paddle power on Colorado’s rivers.

River experts say rafters and kayakers will be able to enjoy sustained flows throughout the entire 2005 season on the Cache la Poudre, Arkansas, Animas, Yampa, Green and Colorado rivers.

Flows are expected to be at their best across the state from mid-May to the end of June. Early season, in April, is the perfect time to catch the wildest white-water and beat the crowds, however. It also is the best time to catch the early-season deals. Toward the end of the season in July and August, meanwhile, is when smoother waters prevail — making it perfect for float trips.

To experience a white-water adventure in Colorado, trek to the high country for an overnight trip, or take a day trip as part of a camping adventure to the mountains. Alternatively, gather a troop of weekend warriors and cash in on group discounts offered by most outfitters throughout the season.

Once there, get ready for the ride of your life. Colorado river guides know the rapids like the back of their hands, but they’ll also make you laugh, cook for you and educate you on some of the flora and fauna indigenous to the area. Most river outfitters provide all of the gear you’ll need. They are professional leaders and safety experts as well, so even if you are not a pro on the rapids, you can rest assured that someone is watching your back.

Paddling Your Canoe In Rough Waters

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Rough water rafting has always been done using an inflatable or a kayak. But did you know that someone on a canoe could also make it through? In fact those who live for adventure have even joined tournaments using this kind of boat.

Instead of watching it on television or hearing the exploits of others, here are some tips that will be useful for those who want to give it a try.

Everyone in the group should make sure that the canoe is stable. This means the weight of those on board should be distributed evenly from the front to the back.

Before disembarking, someone should make sure that everyone has put their lifejackets on. People should remember that this bright colored device is the only thing that can save the life of anyone who falls overboard.

A lot of water will enter the boat and this may cause it to capsize. The best protection is to apply a splash cover all around so this is reduced to a minamum.

It is a fact that those on the canoe will have a hard time paddling especially when the current is very strong. Despite that, everyone should maintain forward momentum to ensure that the boat is going in the right direction.

There will be instances that the crew will have to move upfront if water is coming from the sides.

The bow should be kept downwind so there won’t be any waves coming from the broadside. When going upwind, the group should paddle directly into the waves because failure to do so will likely capsize the canoe.

This is easy when there is a group of people in the boat but when deciding to do this solo, you should always be two feet away from the center.

A lot of things can happen on the lake or river. First timers should never challenge the rough waters and are advised to go with an experienced paddler. The professional will ensure everyone will be able to stay calm throughout the ordeal instead of panicking and not knowing what to do. If the water is too rough, the best thing to do will be to paddle to shore.

Those who successfully make it through the rapids will feel as though he or she has just conquered a mountain. Everyone should remember that this was a team effort and there are other lakes and rivers out there that are more challenging should such an adventure be done again.

Waterproof Cameras

2010-04-28T19:03:00.012-05:00

Here are recommended waterproof cameras/video cameras to consider on your next whitewater rafting trip....

Awesome Rafting Videos

2010-03-10T13:30:00.014-06:00

Penobscot River

Kennebec River

Dead River

Rafting Safety

2009-06-17T00:44:00.000-05:00

Whitewater rafting can be a dangerous sport, especially if basic safety precautions are not observed. Both commercial and private trips have seen their share of injuries and fatalities, though private travel has typically been associated with greater risk. Depending on the area, legislated safety measures may exist for rafting operators. These range from certification of outfitters, rafts, and raft leaders, to more stringent regulations about equipment and procedures. It is generally advisable to discuss safety measures with a rafting operator before signing on for a trip. The equipment used and the qualifications of the company and raft guides are essential information to be considered.

Like most outdoor sports, rafting in general has become safer over the years. Expertise in the sport has increased, and equipment has become more specialized and increased in quality. As a result the difficulty rating of most river runs has changed. A classic example would be the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon or Jalcomulco River in Mexico, which has swallowed whole expeditions in the past, leaving only fragments of boats. In contrast, it is now run safely by commercial outfitters hundreds of times each year with relatively untrained passengers.

Risks in whitewater rafting stem from both environmental dangers and from improper behavior. Certain features on rivers are inherently unsafe and have remained consistently so despite the passage of time. These would include "keeper hydraulics", "strainers" (e.g. fallen trees), dams (especially low-head dams, which tend to produce river-wide keeper hydraulics), undercut rocks, and of course dangerously high waterfalls. Rafting with experienced guides is the safest way to avoid such features. Even in safe areas, however, moving water can always present risks -- such as when a swimmer attempts to stand up on a rocky riverbed in strong current, risking foot entrapment. Irresponsible behavior related to rafting while intoxicated has also contributed to many accidents.

To combat the illusion that rafting is akin to an amusement park ride, and to underscore the personal responsibility each rafter faces on a trip, rafting outfitters generally require customers to sign waiver forms indicating understanding and acceptance of potential serious risks. Rafting trips often begin with safety presentations to educate customers about problems that may arise.

White water rafting is often played for the adrenaline rush and this often becomes a problem for people and their own safety. White water rafting accidents have occurred but are not common.

Due to this the overall risk level on a rafting trip with experienced guides using proper precautions is low. Thousands of people safely enjoy raft trips every year.

From Wikipedia, "Rafting"

Whitewater Rapid Classifications

2009-06-16T23:39:00.000-05:00

Whitewater Rapids are categorized by classes, from I to VI.

Class I is considered easy - very small rough areas, requires no maneuvering. (Skill Level: None)

Class II is novice - some rough water, maybe some rocks, small drops, might require maneuvering. (Skill Level: Basic Paddling Skill)

Class III is intermediate - whitewater, medium waves, maybe a 3-5 ft drop, but not much considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering. (Skill Level: Experienced paddling skills)

Class IV is advanced - whitewater, large waves, rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed. (Skill Level: Whitewater Experience)

Class V is expert - whitewater, large waves, large rocks and hazards, maybe a large drop, precise maneuvering (Skill Level: Advanced Whitewater Experience)

Class VI is almost impossible - whitewater, typically with huge waves, huge rocks and hazards, huge drops, but sometimes labeled this way due to largely invisible dangers (e.g. , a smooth slide that creates a near-perfect, almost inescapable hydraulic, as at Woodall Shoals/Chattooga). Class 6 rapids are considered hazardous even for expert paddlers using state-of-the-art equipment, and come with the warning "danger to life or limb." (Skill Level: Expert)

Cheat Canyon Rafting

2009-06-15T01:45:00.000-05:00

Cheat Canyon — also called Cheat River Canyon or Cheat River Gorge — is a 10-mile long, forested canyon of the Cheat River at the western edge of the Allegheny Mountains in northeastern West Virginia, USA. A popular whitewater venue, for many years the Canyon has been the object of controversy as environmental activists have contended with timber and development interests over its preservation status. The remote Cheat Canyon was carved by the Cheat River and extends for about 10.5 miles between the towns of Albright in Preston County and Cheat Lake in Monongalia County, West Virginia. The steep forested slopes rise as much as 1,200 feet from the river bed to the Canyon rim.
Rafting...

Over the 13 mile stretch of Cheat Canyon you will be thrilled by over 30 class III to class V rapids. Experience the best whitewater action in the East as this river dishes out excitement for the seasoned rafter. Notable points along this spectacular trip include "Decision" (will you decide to go on?), "Big Nasty", "Tear Drop", "Anticipation", "Coliseum", "The Doldrums", "Fossil Falls", and "Swimmers Rapid". For rafting enthusiasts, it is recommended you take a trip with an experienced scout or guide. Get additional information on navigating the river from those people that have ran it many times.

You are surrounded by rugged wilderness, but with so many rapids to concentrate on, you might miss the beauty of the outdoors. Catch all the action March through June, but with any heavy rains, the canyon will strut its stuff at other times. Hardcore rafters will want to get information about the "Cheat River Race" that occurs on Friday during the first weekend in May. Toted as the largest whitewater race in the world, it is well worth consideration.

New River Rafting

2009-06-15T01:43:00.000-05:00

The New River, a tributary of the Kanawha River, is approximately 320 mi (515 km) long, flowing through the states of North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia in the United States. Much of the river's course through West Virginia is designated as the New River Gorge National River. The New River is one of the American Heritage Rivers of the United States. The New River is formed by the confluence of the South Fork New River and the North Fork New River in Ashe County, North Carolina. It then flows north into southwestern Virginia, passing near Galax, Virginia and through a gorge in the Iron Mountains. Continuing north, the river enters Pulaski County, Virginia, where it is impounded by Claytor Dam, creating Claytor Lake. North of the dam the New River accepts the Little River and passes the city of Radford, Virginia before passing through Walker Mountain via a narrow water gap. After flowing north through Giles County, Virginia and the town of Narrows, the river crosses into West Virginia.

The New River is impounded by Bluestone Dam, creating Bluestone Lake in Summers County, West Virginia. The Bluestone River tributary joins the New River in Bluestone Lake. Just below the dam the Greenbrier River joins the New River, which continues its northward course into the New River Gorge. Near the end of the gorge the river flows by the town of Fayetteville, West Virginia. A few miles northwest of Fayetteville the New River merges with the Gauley River, forming the Kanawha River. The Kanawha is a tributary of the Ohio River, which in turn is a tributary of the Mississippi River.

Rafting...

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East", the New River is the oldest river on the continent. The New River is divided into the Upper New River and the Lower New River. A true family getaway, take a few days to explore both sections of the river.

The Upper New River is the calmer of the two sections of the river. Class II and class III rapids accent the Upper New and are pretty mild in nature, a great starting place for you and the family. Those that are adventuresome will likely want to try out a "duckie", a small inflatable kayak to negotiate the rapids. As you enjoy your trip, there is time to observe great wilderness scenery and even take a swim without your watercraft.

Looking for more excitement? The Lower New offers class II through class IV rapids. Also referred to as the Lower New River Gorge, you will navigate roller coaster waves, massive holes and some pretty impressive rocks. "The Keeney's", "Greyhound Bus-Stopper", and "Double Z" are just a few of the whitewater rapid challenges to keep and eye out for. While not as heart-pounding as the Gauley river, there is still a lot of excitement for the beginner and intermediate skilled rafter.

The New River is an ideal spot for a family vacation, with the rafting season from April through October. Whether you come for the thrill of whitewater rapids or a calm float down the New River, there are opportunities for excitement for all ages, young and old.

Gauley River Rafting

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The Gauley River is one of the most popular advanced whitewater runs in the Eastern United States and is the chief feature of the Gauley River National Recreation Area. It is a tributary of the Kanawha River in central West Virginia. The Gauley rises in the Monongahela National Forest on Gauley Mountain in Pocahontas County as three streams, the North, Middle, and South Forks, each of which flows across the southern extremity of Randolph County; they converge in Webster County. The river then flows generally west-southwestwardly through Webster, Nicholas and Fayette Counties, past the towns of Camden-on-Gauley and Summersville, to the town of Gauley Bridge, where it joins the New River to form the Kanawha River. Via the Kanawha and Ohio Rivers, it is part of the Mississippi River watershed.

Rafting...

Known the world over and easily a top ten river, the Gauley River is an adventure you cannot pass on. From the most advanced to beginners, everyone will find the thrill of the ride waiting just for them. The river is divided into two main sections, the Upper Gauley and the Middle Gauley.

The Upper Gauley will leave your awe struck and is abound with untamed adventure. With more than 40 rapids along its course, from class III to V+, the Upper Gauley is not for the queasy or faint of heart. To truly appreciate the magnitude of the Gauley, you will want to plan on 2 days. Starting the Friday after Labor Day is when all "hell" breaks loose; the Summersville Dam opens and thousands of gallons of water are forced down the river. Known as the "Gauley Season", be prepared for explosive rapids, steep drops, virtually bottomless holes, and massive waves. Names like "Insignificant", "Pillow Rock", "Lost Paddle", "Iron King", and "Sweet's Falls", mark their spots along this exhilarating whitewater adventure. Experience is required with a minimum age of sixteen. If you are looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, the Upper Gauley is your only choice.

Let's not forget about the Middle Gauley river, as it has merit in its own right. Within its 12 mile run, you can look forward to class III and class IV rapids. For first-time rafters, the Middle Gauley will give you the taste for whitewater adventure that will have you begging for more. Rapids like "Heaven Help You", "Pure Screaming Hell", and "Roller Coaster", make this the ultimate theme park experience. Between each exhilarating rapid, chute and rocky route, catch a glimpse of the great scenery this pristine wilderness river has to offer.

The Gauley River season runs year-round, but primarily April through October with the scheduled water releases starting after Labor Day. You are in for a truly exceptional rafting experience. If there is one river you choose this year, make it the Gauley River. How can tens of thousands of visitors each year be wrong?

Penobscot River Rafting

2009-06-15T00:30:00.000-05:00

The Penobscot River is 350 mi (563 km) long, making it the second longest river in the U.S. state of Maine and the longest river entirely in Maine. It arises from four branches in several lakes in the central Maine, and flows generally east. After the uniting of the West Branch with the East Branch at Medway, it flows south, past the city of Bangor, where it becomes navigable. It empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Penobscot Bay. It is home to the Penobscot people that live on Indian Island.

Rafting...

In the Eastern United States, the Penobscot River is considered one of the most stunning and challenging rivers. Winding its way through the beautiful Baxter State Park, the Penobscot river is a mix of both breathtaking views and heart-pounding rapids. A river more for adults, it might not be for the young or timid. At the end of the day, this is a truly challenging and rewarding trip.

As you start your 13 mile trip down the river, you find yourself in a calm, peaceful section of the river. Enjoy the scenery; keep a watch out for wildlife such as moose, deer, beavers, otters and ducks. Before you know it, you enter a sheer rock-walled corridor and the excitement begins. You are in for the ultimate whitewater experience, with many class III, IV, and V rapids. The tension mounts as you prepare for more challenging intervals later on, such as the Ripogenus Gorge on the upper part of your trip. Within this amazing section of the river are two class V rapids, the "Exterminator" and the "CribWorks". Later, in the lower section are a variety of class III and IV rapids. You can look forward to "Pockwockamus Falls", "Abol Falls", and "Nesowadnehunk Falls".

Take advantage of this amazing river May to October, but keep in mind July and August are the busiest months. If you are a thrill seeker, make sure you plan this trip into your schedule - this is one rollercoaster ride you cannot miss.

Dead River Rafting

2009-06-15T00:28:00.000-05:00

The Dead River is a tributary of the Androscoggin River in western Maine in the United States. The river flows from Androscoggin Lake, northwest through the town of Leeds approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) to the Androscoggin. This sluggish river is the outlet of a chain of ponds, of which Androscoggin Pond is the largest and last. The river has the rare power of running either way at different times. Upon a sudden rise of the Androscoggin River, the flow sets back the current of Dead River into the pond. It sometimes flows into the pond for three or four days.

Rafting...

If you are looking for the rush of whitewater rapids, then your only choice is the Dead River, with more rapids per mile than any other Northeaster river. No truly serious rafter should miss this river! By far one of the most exciting trips in the country, the Dead River has thrill after thrill during your 15 mile trip with class III and IV rapids throughout, including the "Humpty Dumpty", the "Spruce Ledges", "Elephant Rock", and rounding out the trip with the longest rapids of "Poplar Hill Falls", a class IV rapids. Make sure you check for dates on the flood control releases that create the excitement of Dead River as they are limited.

For the family and beginner rafters, the summer months offer a more relaxed version of the Dead River. This is a perfect introduction to rafting with class I rapids. Your family will enjoy the ride and have a great time along the way.

Dead River is open May through October and boasts class I through class V rapids depending on the time of year you visit. Remember that times and spots are limited for the higher class runs, so make sure to check in advance. The Dead River is great for beginner through advanced rafters. Whatever your level of expertise, the memories of a great time on the Dead River will be with you for years to come.

Kennebec River Rafting

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The Kennebec River is a 150-mile (240 km) river in the state of Maine in the northeastern United States. It rises in Moosehead Lake in west central Maine. The East and West Outlets join at Indian Pond and the river then flows southward where it is joined, at the The Forks by the Dead River, also called the West Branch then continues southward past the cities of Madison, Skowhegan, Waterville, and the state capital Augusta. At Richmond, it flows into Merrymeeting Bay, a 16-mile (26 km) freshwater tidal bay into which also flow the Androscoggin River and five smaller rivers. The Kennebec then runs past the shipbuilding center of Bath, then to the Gulf of Maine in the Atlantic Ocean. Ocean tides affect the river height as far north as Augusta. Tributaries of the Kennebec River include the Carrabassett River, Sandy River, and Sebasticook River.

Rafting...

The Kennebec river is rated as one of the greatest whitewater adventures in the United States. You start your trip on the upper Kennebec at the Harrison Station Dam - be prepared for what can only be described as a wild and thrilling rollercoaster ride. If you have ever been on a rollercoaster, you will be able to appreciate how similar the ride feels on the upper river. Be challenged by the waves of "Big Mama", the "Three Sisters", then the plunge into "Magic Falls". These six miles of non-stop action give you little time to think! Expect to get wet as waves range from four to six feet high! The experienced guides don't hold back looking to give you thrill after thrill.

This extreme ride leads into the calmer middle Kennebec river stretch. With time to reflect on "what just happened?" you can relax as the Kennebec widens and slows down. This is a great time for swimming and water play. Don't forget to watch for wilderness and gain an appreciation for the wild outdoors. Families with younger ones will find the Kennebec river a great choice.

Whitewater rafting trips on the Kennebec river run from May to October and is considered on of the most popular for families. On the upper Kennebec river, the minimum age is 10, on the lower it is 7. The Kennebec is suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced. Your complete ride will include exciting Class III to Class V rapids and moderate Class II whitewater.

Maine High Water Release Dates

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Here are the upcoming high water release dates by river. Book early as they will fill up early!

Penobscot River
Water releases are daily.

Dead River - Releases are limited to the following dates

May 7th
May 14th
May 29th
June 4th
June 11th
June 12th
July 23rd
August 13th
September 4th
September 17th
October 1st

Kennebec River

White water releases are daily, however, four extreme high water release dates at 8400 c.f.s*
are on

June 18th
July 4th
September 10th
September 24th

*c.f.s - cubic feet per second