Top Ten Canoe, Kayak, and Raft Camping Trips

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is top o' the list for northeast paddling destinations. Located in the north woods of Maine, it is a wonderfully remote and scenic paddling trip. You will spend about two-thirds of your paddling time on several lakes, and only about one-third on the Allagash River. Two stretches of whitewater add spice to the adventure. Moose, bear, and bald eagle are among the wildlife often seen along the river.

The usual Allagash trip is the 93 miles from Chamberlain Lake to the town of Allagash, where the Allagash flows into the St. John River. This trip takes about seven days. There are several other access points allowing for trips of varying lengths. The Allagash runs high and quick in early summer snowmelt season. By mid-June it mellows out, making for easygoing canoe expeditions.

Just the Facts

For more information: Maine Bureau of Parks and Recreation

Suitable craft: Open canoe

More Maine woods paddling: Peneboscot River, Saint Croix River, Kennebec and Dead Rivers

More GORP: Allagash Wilderness Waterway