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Penobscot River Rafting Season Kicks Off in Maine – Your Ultimate Guide to This Epic Outdoor Adventure

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 1 day ago
  • 4 min read

People enjoying a Day Rafting down the Penobscot River

Penobscot River Rafting Season Kicks Off in Maine – Your Ultimate Guide to This Epic Outdoor Adventure

Get ready to launch into one of Maine’s most thrilling outdoor experiences—the Penobscot River Rafting Season officially begins on May 24, 2025, and runs through Labor Day weekend! Hosted by Northern Outdoors, this action-packed adventure runs every Friday through Monday and promises unforgettable thrills for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.


Located in the heart of Maine’s wilderness, this white-water rafting adventure offers more than just rapids—it’s a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Katahdin region, near Baxter State Park, and under the iconic Appalachian Trail. Get the adrenal going and participate in the Penobscot River Rafting Season Kicks Off in Maine.


🚣‍♂️ What to Expect on the Penobscot River Rafting Trip

Spanning 14 miles of stunning wilderness, this top-to-bottom river run includes:

  • Class V rapids for maximum excitement

  • A steep granite gorge carved by ancient glaciers

  • Rafting over natural waterfalls

  • Scenic floats past Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak

  • Crossing under the world-famous Appalachian Trail

  • A riverside lunch included with your trip

  • Endless forest views and native wildlife sightings

Whether you’re an experienced rafter or an adventurous first-timer, this is a must-do Maine summer experience.


🏕️ Where You’ll Launch: Katahdin Adventure Base Camp

Your Penobscot River rafting journey starts at the Katahdin Adventure Base Camp, operated by Northern Outdoorsand located at the Big Moose Inn in Millinocket, Maine.


This region is a wilderness lover’s dream, perfectly situated between Millinocket Lake and Ambajejus Lake, and just outside the rugged beauty of Baxter State Park.

📍 Address:Northern Outdoors – Penobscot River Rafting

1771 US Route 201, The Forks, ME 04985

📞 Call to book: (207) 663-4466


🛏️ Where to Stay: Big Moose Inn & Lodging Options

Extend your adventure with overnight accommodations at the Big Moose Inn, a cozy rustic lodge near the river launch point. Whether you want a cabin, bunkhouse, or tent site, the inn offers a range of lodging styles that pair perfectly with a day of white-water rafting.


You’ll also have access to:

  • On-site dining and pub

  • Gear rentals and outdoor amenities

  • Proximity to local hiking trails and lakes

  • Campfire areas to unwind after your trip


🌲 Why Choose the Penobscot River for Your Maine Outdoor Adventure?

The Penobscot River is one of the most legendary rafting rivers in New England, offering steep technical drops, heart-racing rapids, and unmatched views of Maine’s most iconic wilderness.


Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a family adventure trip, this river offers excitement, natural beauty, and a well-organized experience from one of Maine’s top outfitters, Northern Outdoors, who’ve been perfecting their trips since 1976.


📅 Rafting Schedule: Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day

  • Trips run every Friday – Monday

  • Group discounts available

  • Advance reservations strongly encouraged for summer weekends


🛶 Book Your Penobscot River Rafting Trip Today!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Maine’s premier white-water rafting experience this summer. The Penobscot River season opens May 24, 2025, and space fills up fast.


📞 Call (207) 663-4466 to reserve your rafting and lodging packages today!



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










The Penobscot River is one of the most legendary rafting rivers in New England, offering steep technical drops, heart-racing rapids, and unmatched views of Maine’s most iconic wilderness.

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