Penobscot River Rafting Trips

As the most adventurous river we raft on, the Penobscot River offers a true Class V whitewater rafting experience by anyone’s standards – with the added bonus of amazing views of Mt. Katahdin. Run out of our Penobscot Outpost in Millinocket, ME, our Penobscot Rafting Trips are truly the definition of “Serious Fun”!

As you’re deciding on the trip that’s right for you and your crew, we recommend reading our full trip descriptions written by the guides themselves on our website, but here is a quick rundown of the trip options we offer on the Penobscot River.

 

One Day Penobscot River Rafting Trips

Penobscot River Rafting Trips The Penobscot River rafting trip is our most adventurous trip and a day truly packed with adventure featuring Class IV and Class V rapids. If you’re looking for an unforgettable day on a world-renowned river, a Penobscot River Trip is for you. We offer both One-day & Overnight Rafting Trips!

After checking in at our base, we head up the Golden Road, a logging road that was central to the Maine paper industry and parallels the section of the Penobscot River that we run. 

We put in on the water at McKay Station and immediately encounter a Class V rapid in Ripogenus Gorge (NOTE: we can’t run this rapid in2020 due to a change in terrain blocking the path we walk on near McKay Station). After some smaller rapids and surfing opportunities, we approach the Cribworks, an extremely technical Class V rapid. After some more aggressive surf spots in the Amberjacks, we stop for a secluded lunch on the side of river at Salmon Point.

What comes after lunch? RECESS! Next up is our “whitewater playground” – Nesowadnehunk Falls. We’ll drop over a 13-foot drop on the Penobscot River Trips left-side of this big horseshoe shaped waterfall… and then do it again and again! We are able to do this more than once by carrying the boat up over the rocks after the drop and setting up above. Another feature of this whitewater playground is that it is also a great surf hole. Much like a playground has a padded floor, downstream of all this fun is just flat water withno major hazards, so even if you do go swimming it is very low risk. Nesowadnehunk Falls is truly unparalleled; it would be hard to find a spot this fun on a river anywhere else.

After the Falls, there is a long flat water stretch where you can hop in and swim while admiring the majesty of Mt. Katahdin. The day ends with three more Class III and IV rapids before we head back to the base.

 

Penobscot River Rafting Overnight Trip

Penobscot Overnight Trip The Penobscot Overnight Trip is great if you’re looking to truly unplug and enjoy Class V thrills and the beauty of the Katahdin region. And, since we take care of most of the logistics, food, and equipment, you don’t need to worry about too much as you plan your vacation!

On our Penobscot Overnight Trip, we run the same section of river as the one day trip, but take our time and play on the river for longer. All you need to bring is a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any personal items you need. We take care of the rest, including meals!

On the first day, you’ll navigate some amazing class V rapids in the morning. Then, after a stop for lunch, Penobscot Overnight Trip we get back on the river to surf and play at the Amberjacks. After that, we head to our campsite right on the water at Salmon Point. You’ll have the afternoon to relax or explore the area – perhaps look for a moose or other wildlife – before your guides prepare dinner. The second day begins with more rafting at Nesowadnehunk Falls, before continuing down the lower river. 

 

After your trip

If you’re looking to refuel after your day of paddling and adventure, Boatman’s Bar and Grill at our Penobscot Outpost has you covered. We typically have karaoke on Friday and live music on Saturday (NOTE: In 2020, we are not having karaoke or live music due to COVID-19 guidelines). There are also nightly specials, like the popular Taco Tuesday!

There is so much to do in the Millinocket area with Baxter State Park and many other great hiking spots nearby. After you go rafting, continue your stay at one of our lodging options and explore the area!

 

Ready to join us?

If you have any questions about our Penobscot River Trips, our team of Fun Specialists is ready to give you the information you need. Give us a call at 207-663-2104 and we’ll get you set up for Serious Fun!