top of page

Conquer the Rapids: Dead River Rafting Memorial Day Weekend Adventure in Maine

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 14 hours ago
  • 4 min read

People are to conquer the rapids: Dead River Rafting Memorial Day Weekend Adventure in Maine

Conquer the Rapids: Dead River Rafting Memorial Day Weekend Adventure in Maine

Kick off Memorial Day Weekend 2025 with a pulse-pounding white-water experience on Maine’s wildest river! On May 25, 2025, join Northern Outdoors for one of the most epic rafting events of the year on the Dead River, home to the most continuous whitewater in the East. With Class III to IV+ rapids, massive waves, and just eight dam releases each season, this limited-time outdoor adventure is one you don’t want to miss, to conquer the rapids aDead River Rafting Memorial Day Weekend.


🌊 Why Raft the Dead River This Memorial Day Weekend?

The Dead River Spring Release is a rare opportunity to ride the waves when the river is flowing at an incredible 6,000 cubic feet per second — all thanks to spring runoff and the fourth official dam release of the season. From Grand Fallsto the confluence with the Kennebec River, this wild ride spans over 15 miles of big hits, wave trains, and adrenaline-pumping rapids.


Highlights include:

  • Class III to IV+ rapids for intermediate to advanced rafters

  • A remote and scenic backcountry setting

  • Guides who make safety and fun a priority

  • A full-day river adventure with shuttle transportation

  • Riverside snacks and a grilled lunch back at basecamp

  • Slideshow & video viewing of your rafting trip

  • Post-adventure relaxation with beer, games, hot tubs & live music


👉 This is one of only 8 Dead River rafting dates each year—spots go fast!


2025

Dead River Rafting Release Dates

  • SATURDAY MAY 3 = 6,000 CFS – FIRST BLAST

  • SATURDAY MAY 10 = 6,000 CFS – Whitewater Warrior Weekend

  • SATURDAY MAY 17 = 6,000 CFS – Whitewater Warrior Weekend

  • SUNDAY MAY 25 = 6,000 CFS – Memorial Day Weekend

  • SATURDAY JUNE 7 = 4,000 CFS

  • SUNDAY AUGUST 31 = 5,500 CFS – Labor Day Weekend

  • SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 13 = 3,500 CFS

  • SATURDAY OCTOBER 4 = 6,000 CFS – LAST BLAST


🏞️ Where You’ll Launch: Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort

Your rafting experience begins at Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort in The Forks, Maine, the top-rated rafting outfitter in New England. They’ve been running trips on the Dead River for decades, perfecting the logistics and providing an unforgettable Maine wilderness adventure.


📍 Address:Northern Outdoors

1771 US Route 201, The Forks, ME 04985

📞 Call to book: (207) 663-4466

🔗 Rafting Details & Release Dates:


🍻 Après-Rafting Fun: Food, Brews & Live Vibes

After you’ve tackled the river, the real fun begins back at basecamp:


  • Enjoy a grilled riverside lunch with steak, chicken, salmon, or veggie burgers

  • Grab a cold pint at the Kennebec River Brewery, located on-site

  • Relax in the hot tub, play outdoor games, or catch up with new friends in the lodge

  • Relive the excitement during the trip slideshow and video viewing

  • Stick around for live music or a chill night under the stars


🏕️ Stay the Weekend: Cabins, Campsites, and RV Spots Available

Make your Memorial Day Weekend unforgettable with a multi-night escape in Maine’s adventure-filled highlands. Whether you're looking for rustic riverside camping, cozy indoor lodging, or a peaceful vacation rental with stunning views — there’s a perfect spot for you near The Forks.


🛌 Moose River Lookout – Rockwood, ME

Just few miles from Northern Outdoors, Moose River Lookout offers a scenic and serene vacation rental perched above the beautiful Moose River. This cozy, well-appointed cabin includes a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and a private deck with a grill — perfect for relaxing after a big day on the river. Enjoy peaceful mornings with coffee and panoramic views or unwind under the stars.


  • Great for families, couples, or small groups

  • Quiet, private location with direct access to nature

  • A short drive to both the Dead River launch point and Northern Outdoors Resort


🔗 Book Moose River Lookout: www.mooseriverlookout.com


🛏️ Cabins and Lodging Rentals:


Campground, RV Sites & Cabin Tents:

Make it a weekend getaway by booking one of the many accommodation options on-site. Whether you're looking for a rustic riverside campsite or a cozy cabin with modern comforts, Northern Outdoors has you covered.


🔗 Cabins and Lodging Rentals:


🔗 Campground, RV Sites & Cabin Tents:


📅 Don’t Miss This Wild Memorial Day Adventure!

Spots for Dead River Rafting Memorial Day Weekend fill up quickly—especially with the high-flow spring release! Whether you're planning a group trip, a solo adventure, or a couples’ weekend in the Maine Highlands, this is a bucket-list white-water experience.


✅ Book online now: www.NorthernOutdoors.com

📞 Or call: (207) 663-4466


What to Do in Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.

  • Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.

  • Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.

  • Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









bottom of page