Northern Outdoors: Since 1976
For 50 years, Northern Outdoors has been shaped by the rivers that run through it—and by the people who answered their call. What began as a shared love for whitewater has grown into a community built on adventure, connection, and unforgettable days on Maine’s rivers and trails. From first-time paddlers and lifelong guides to families, friends, and staff who return year after year, every trip has added to the story. As we celebrate 50 years of magic and memories, we invite you to help us honor the moments, the people, and the river days that made Northern Outdoors what it is today.
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Event Schedule
Check out key rafting and snowmobile dates, high water releases, live music, dance parties, and daily restaurant specials all year long!
50/30 Ale
Kennebec River Brewery Special Release!
50/30 Ale is a one-of-a-kind collaboration brewed to celebrate two milestones: 50 years of Northern Outdoors and 30 years of Kennebec River Brewery. This special anniversary ale brings generations together, with current Northern Outdoors employees joining Head Brewer Kevin to help craft it. Rooted in shared history, hard work, and plenty of stories, 50/30 Ale is a tribute to the people behind the scenes—and the community that has grown up around great rivers, great adventures, and great beer.
Release date: end of June, exact date TBD!
A History of Northern Outdoors
1975: Wayne and Suzie Hockmeyer formed Back Country Outfitters in Rockwood, Maine as a hunting and fishing guide service.
1976: In May, Wayne and Suzie purchased a 20’ raft and did an exploratory descent of the Kennebec River gorge. In June, they established Kennebec Whitewater Expeditions and began offering commercial whitewater rafting trips. In the fall of 1976, they explored the West Branch of the Penobscot River.
1978: First rafting trip ever on the Dead River
1981: Jim Yearwood, (co owner through 2024), joined Northern Outdoors as river guide
1983: Built main lodge in The Forks and changed name to Northern Outdoors
1983: Russell Walters, (co-owner through 2026), joined Northern Outdoors as a kayak instructor
1983: Added snowmobiling to become year-round resort with year-round staff
1996–2000: Added more cabins to the resort
1996: Co-owner Jim Yearwood founded Kennebec River Brewery
2002: Opened Kennebec River Campground
2003: Paul Yearwood, son of Jim Yearwood, trained and joined the Northern Outdoors guide staff.
2006: Emily Yearwood, daughter of Jim Yearwood, trained and joined the Northern Outdoors guide staff.
2008: Connected ATV trail direct to the main lodge
2011: Zach Davis trained and joined the Northern Outdoors guide staff.
2012: Hosted Untamed Adventure Race in June, the largest adventure race in the U.S.
2016: Celebrated 40 years of river running
2019: Established Katahdin Adventure Base Camp at Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground
2024: Emily Yearwood and Paul Yearwood, along with their spouses Zach and Mona, became the new generation of ownership by purchasing Northern Outdoors from Suzie Hockmeyer, Jim Yearwood, and Russell Walters.
2026: Northern Outdoors celebrates 50 years!