Whitewater Rafting

The best outdoor adventure in Maine and New England is Whitewater Rafting, taking a half-day trip, full-day family trip, or a full-day adventure trip, starting with expert instructions to improve or acquire the proper rafting techniques and water safety from expert registered Maine Guides.

Whitewater rafting vacations is an exciting approach for water sports enthusiasts and first-timers, going through the 3 scenic rivers known for the most exciting canoeing, kayaking and rafting in the region, the Kennebec River, the Penobscot and the Dead River. All of these rivers with rapids ranging from class I ideal for families, to class V for individuals seeking another level of challenge.

In the thrill of wild rapids, the wind smells like fresh pine and the spray of the cool river waters makes the adventurer come back to Maine over and over again. Rafting is the most popular sport in the state from April through October; however, this activity is regulated by the state, limiting the number of activities per day so contact a local Guide to learn more.

Rafting on the Kennebec River is the most popular rafting trip. This river got its name from the Abnakis Indians, and its name translates to "long quiet waters", perhaps a reference to the stretch of water below Augusta, the capital of Maine. Although the Kennebec River is around 75 miles wide, the whitewater rafting is practically along 12 miles of fast and deep water.

Because the nature of the river, you can take a canoe trip with your family and paddle your way down to the lower river on kayaks to look for wildlife. The minimum age going to the Kennebec River is 10 for kayaking and 16 for rafting in the upper river, and 7 for canoeing and kayaking in the lower river.

The longest and most continuous stretch of whitewater in Maine, and the whole New England region, is located on the Dead River. 16 miles of big water is released 10 times a year, when the river comes alive, while the Penobscot River has a reputation as a river of contrasts and beautiful scenarios.

Although rafting is a great sport, you must remember that in Maine the weather may change quickly and it is necessary to prepare yourself for any weather situation, and particularly during the months running form May to June and from September to October. During these months, the temperatures range from low 20º to 30º F, to 60º and 70º F.

Typically, the water is colder at the beginning of the rafting season, but growing gradually warm during July and August. However, during September and October the water temperature depends mostly on the warmer or cooler air temperature.

At any moment, you can rent a wetsuit, because most companies and services require wetsuits when running the rivers in the mentioned months above, however you can simply wear a pair of sneakers, a bathing suit, shorts, wool socks and gloves and your hat, visor, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Keeping in mind the weather, you can add to your gear a piece of clothing capable of retaining the heat, rain pants and a rain jacket. A rented wetsuit is also good when it is raining or the water is too cold. Apart from this, all the other equipment, such as helmets, life jackets, and paddles are provided by the rafting company or Maine Guide.

Many of the Maine whitewater rafting guides, offer kids adventures, family trips and activities, youth programs, and many other outdoor activities near the rapids, including rock climbing, fishing, hunting, bird watching, hiking, biking and backpacking, among other adventures and tours.