Maine Whitewater Rafting Guide: Stephanie Gallagher
Name: Stephanie Gallagher
Hometown: York, ME
Age of First Rafting Trip: 14 Years Old
Year you started guiding at Northern Outdoors: 2017
What type of guiding do you do? Whitewater Rafting
What do you enjoy most about working at Northern Outdoors?
What I enjoy most about working at Northern Outdoors is the friendly environment. Our staff works hard each and every day to accommodate our guests so they can have the best possible experience. Whether I am on the river or working in the restaurant, I know I have surrounded myself with fun, caring and energetic people which makes working so much fun! I enjoy meeting new people on the river or in the lodge. I am very fortunate to have joined the Northern Outdoors family this year, they put a smile on my face every day!
What is your favorite river to guide, and your favorite rapid on that river?
I can't really say I have a favorite right now, as I enjoy them all. I am always up for the challenge when guiding on the Penobscot River. You can't beat a day on the Kennebec River, it's always fun, relaxing and peaceful in its own way. My favorite rapid on the Kennebec is Magic Falls. As you look down river at the horizon line and watch everyone set up on river left, there is just something so exhilarating about it. On the Penobscot the Nesowadnehunk Falls is my favorite as it's also known as a whitewater playground. Having everyone together in that one particular spot on the river is so much fun! It shows the passion in rafting as everyone is laughing, cheering and screaming!
What’s your classic Northern Outdoors memory?
There are so many Northern Outdoors memories, but one that comes to mind was Level I and Level II guide training on the Kennebec and Penobscot River. While spending early mornings to late nights together, we formed a special bond rather quickly. The ice caves was an unforgettable moment, once we found them! Our trust and respect for each other will never be forgotten and all the memories that are created at Northern will last a lifetime.
Where do you adventure when you are not working?
When I am not working I am adventuring at my camp with family and friends. In the summer, I like to go waterskiing, tubing and paddle boarding. I enjoy hiking, hunting, spending time with my boyfriend and his dog, Trigger. In the winter, I love to go snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing. I enjoy playing sports and any outdoor activities. I love attending concerts and sporting events.
What do you do in the off-season when you’re not guiding for Northern Outdoors?
In the off-season when I am not guiding for Northern Outdoors, I am working in Special Education at an Elementary School in York. In the fall, I am an assistant girls varsity soccer coach. In the winter, I am an assistant girls varsity basketball coach. I also waitress and bartend at a local restaurant- Cape Neddick Lobster Pound.
Which Kennebec River Brewery beer is your top choice after a day on the river?
The Kennebec River Brewery beer of my choice after a day on the river is the Sledhead Red!
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