 The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is truly a jewel of the North Maine Woods. The length of the waterway, it's designation in the 70's as Wilderness area, and the combination of lake and river canoeing offers one of the best opportunities in the country for an extended canoeing and camping experience. It is well suited for paddlers of all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal opportunity for families and friends. The Waterway is 92 miles long and has limited access to help ensure a wilderness experience. Many campsites are located along the way and each one is unique and special in its own way. Most of these campsites have probably been used for centuries by traders, trappers and Indians. Henry David Thoreau visited here and has a campsite named after him. There is plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing. In fact, it is rare to go a whole day without a sighting of moose or deer. Often a large bull moose will be too busy eating weeds from the river bottom to bother with your presence, and you may spend virtually unlimited time observing and photographing these impressive animals as they emerge for a breath and a leisurely look your way. Other common wildlife sightings include bald eagles, osprey, loons, duck families, and American Coots. For anglers, trout, salmon, and togue fishing is best during the early and late canoeing season when the waters are coldest. Youngsters and less serious fishermen may have great fun at any time in the season by casting for "chubs" for catch-and release fun. The trip will start with a safety orientation, and a discussion of the group's needs in regards to learning basic canoeing technique. If necessary we will spend time before setting out, for beginners to learn strokes for flatwater canoeing. Once on the water we will take time to learn and review more advanced skills for reading and navigating whitewater. As always, safety is the highest priority. Chase Rapids below Churchill Dam is the most challenging stretch of whitewater. It is a seven mile stretch of mostly continuous whitewater rated class II+. A ranger is available to transport gear around this stretch of rapids. Overall, it really isn't that difficult. The water is not very deep in this section of river and thousands of people run it every year without a problem. The meals are generous and nutritious, and include a hearty dinner and breakfast at camp, lunch at a mid-day rest stop, and snacks as desired through the day. All food is provided and prepared by myself, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the campsite and nearby woods and river. Some trippers enjoy getting acquainted with semi-tame "camp bunnies", or watching the antics of red squirrels and Canada jays as they eye the food preparation. Others enjoy wildlife photography, firewood gathering, evening fishing, or simply relaxing and recounting the days adventures. Try to schedule as long a trip as possible. It usually takes a couple of days to unwind and really get into the rhythm of the trip. One of the amazing aspects of a trip like this is how your senses become more acute and your awareness grows with each passing day. Often one of the most lasting memories from an Allagash trip is how fast the speed of everyday life seems when you return to your usual life, and the new sense of perspective you may have on it. |
Adventures in Maine Guide Service Wes Hodgkins 273 East Road Fayette, Maine 04349 207-458-1573     |
