Kennebec River Turbine Test
Four special releases each year on the BIGGEST white water in Maine, and TWO different ways to experience it: a full day top to bottom river trip, or run the the upper twice! HIGH water, HUGE waves, and TONS OF FUN… don’t miss rafting the Kennebec River Turbine Test 8,000+ CFS release dates based out of our adventure resort in The Forks, Maine.
Kennebec River High Water Rafting: Maine’s Biggest Whitewater Experience
During a turbine test, Brookfield Power tests their generating turbines by releasing the maximum amount of water possible from Harris Station Dam. Kennebec Turbine Test rafting trips enjoy 8,000+ cubic feet per second (cfs) water flows, which is nearly DOUBLE the Kennebec River’s normal whitewater rafting release volume. Northern Outdoors offers two types of trips: a full day, top to bottom river trip OR a half day “double trouble” – read on for all of the details! If you love whitewater action, you will want to be on one of these special Turbine Test release trips–only 4 per season!






Turbine Test: Full Day
Classic top to bottom style river trip
Morning Check in
Your River Trip
Post River Trip – Including Lunch
Double Trouble: Half Day
Run the upper gorge two times
Morning Check in
Your River Trip
Note- this trip does NOT go to our riverside lunch spot, and does not do the lower river float out. Trip should arrive back at Northern Outdoors by approximately 1pm.
Post River Trip - Lunch on Your Own
Kennebec River Turbine Test Trip Information
Location: The Forks Adventure Resort
1771 US Route 201, The Forks, Maine 04985
Meeting Time: 7:45 AM
Difficulty: Class III-IV rapids
Trip Duration: 5-8 hours
Distance: 8-12 miles
Season: 4 Releases Per Year
Trip Pricing: $149+ Per Person
Age Limits: 14 Minimum Age
Registered Maine Guide: Professional whitewater guide licensed by the State of Maine to guide you down the river.
Lunch: Full day trip only. Snack provided on both trips.
Transportation: to river & back from Northern Outdoors
Rafting Equipment: Raft, paddle, helmet, PFD (Personal Floatation Device)
What to Wear: Water-friendly clothing & shoes
Wetsuit Rental: Available after morning meeting
- Full Suit $20
- Farmer John $10
- Top Half or Paddle Jacket $5
- Booties $5
Kennebec River rafting trips are located at Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort in The Forks, with an on-site brewpub, swimming pool, hot tub, and a wide selection of cabins and camping.
Availability Calendar
Prices do not include taxes and fees
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