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ALLAGASH WILDERNESS WATERWAY (Maine)
Allagash River "At a Glance"
Scenery Rugged North Woods Best time May-Sep Wilderness Very remote Water Flow Generally good in season Water Quality Very good Campsites Designated only Hazards Several miles of rapids plus one mandatory portage of waterfall Logistics Remote private roads access; outfitters & guides available Trip Length 93 miles Recommendation Premiere destination trip for the adventurous and skilled paddler Photo Courtesy Fenton Publishing
General Description & Characteristics -- The Allagash Wilderness Waterway, so designated by the State of Maine, is arguably the best canoe route in the northeast United States. Located in the north woods of Maine, it is a most remote and scenic paddling trip. A corridor along the river has been protected by the state, while the surrounding lands are privately owned and operated as a commercial forest.
The Allagash only loosely fits our definition of a non-whitewater river destination. First of all, you will spend about two-thirds of your paddling time on several lakes, and only about one-third on the Allagash River. Secondly, there are two notable sections of whitewater, described in more detail below. So you should attempt this trip only if you are a seasoned paddler with some whitewater experience. If you are apprehensive about your skills, you might look into the possibility of a guided trip which is offered by several outfitters (see below).
Location Canoeable Mileage -- 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 access points allowing for trips of varying lengths. All access to the river is via private roads where a fee is charged for entry. The Allagash runs very high in early summer snow melt season. By mid-June it settles down to a more moderate level and remains so until the freeze. Black fly problems are less serious later in the season.
Interesting Features -- The dramatic scenery and wildlife of the north woods await you on the Allagash. Moose, bear, and bald eagle are added to the other wildlife we often see along the river. A section of several miles known for whitewater, Chase Rapids, can run to Class III. Those not inclined to run these rapids can arrange a shuttle truck for a fee to haul you around this section. Allagash Falls, on the lower river, is a 40 foot drop, and a mandatory portage of a quarter mile. Those who contemplate running the Allagash are well advised to seek detailed information about all these hazards from local authorities and experts mentioned in the links below. A good map is essential for a trip of this nature.
Camping -- Regulations require the use of designated campsites all along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. These campsites have some amenities, and some accommodate more than one party.
Additional Information --
Canoeing Information Canoe Rental/Shuttle Service River Flow Data
- Flow of the Allagash at the town of Allagash, Maine (USGS)
- If you have difficulty obtaining data from these links, CLICK HERE
Parks on/near the River . Towns/Other Locales on/near the River . Books More Pictures . Environmental Issues/Organizations . Acknowledgments/Contributors . Miscellaneous
- Here's a good web site about a trip down the Allagash.
- Other interesting sites on the Allagash include a Nature Book.
- MaineOutdoors.com has some good information about canoeing in the state.
