Penobscot

(nicknamed the Penob by river runners)

Location: North-central Maine (about 160 miles northeast of Portland; about 260 miles northeast of Boston).

Length of trip: 12 miles in one day.

Season: Mid-May to mid-September. Daily dam releases control the water flow.

Weather: Summer temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s (F). Be prepared for blackflies in June.

Lodging: Wooded campsites in Baxter State Park, as well as wooded campgrounds, furnished lakefront cabins, B&Bs, motels, and inns in Greenville and Millinocket.

Boats: Kayaks, paddle rafts.

Rapids: Class IV and V, as well as a 12-foot falls. Clear, cool water averages 65¡F in summer.

Special features:

  • Considered the most challenging white water in the East. At Ripogenus Gorge the Penob drops 70 feet per mile over Class V rapids and through the white-water maze called the Cribwork.
  • Spectacular river scenery, with views of Mount Katahdin and other high peaks.
  • Wildflowers in spring.
  • Swimming.
  • Autumn colors blaze against a backdrop of evergreens.
  • Excellent fishing for landlocked salmon.
  • Moose, black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, ospreys.
  • Wilderness solitude.
  • Suitable for families and intermediate to experienced rafters.

Nearby excursions:

  • Baxter State Park.
  • Appalachian Trail.
  • Moosehead Lake.
  • Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

For a list of outfitters:

  • Maine Publicity Bureau, Post Office Box 2300, Hallowell, Maine 04347-2300; +1 207 623 0363 or 800 533 9595, fax +1 207 623 0388. Ask for the guidebook “Maine Invites You,” which includes a list of outfitters. Try to book at least six weeks in advance.

For more information:

  • Raft Maine Association, P.O. Box 3, Bethel, Maine 04217; 800 723 8633.

 
 
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