Penobscot River Rafting

Northern Outdoors first rafted the West Branch of the Penobscot River in 1976, and we’ve been perfecting the trip since then. Join us for a classic top to bottom river run, with class 5 rapids, stunning views of Katahdin, and one of Maine’s most epic outdoor adventures.

Whitewater Rafting on the Penobscot River: Maine’s Wildest River

Whitewater rafting trips on the Penobscot River meet at the Katahdin Adventure Base Camp, located at the Big Moose Inn in Millinocket, Maine. Camp here or relax in a lakeside cabin, both within walking distance to two lakes, two restaurants (including a rooftop bar), and the meeting place for your Penobscot River whitewater rafting trip. The Katahdin Base Camp sits just outside of Baxter State Park on Millinocket and Ambajejus Lakes, with pontoon boat moose tours right out your front door. Learn more about cabins and camping at the Big Moose Inn, and rally your crew for the best whitewater rafting in Maine!

Your Day Rafting the Penobscot River

Trip Itinerary

Morning Check in

Whitewater rafting trips on the Penobscot River gather at The Katahdin Adventure Basecamp in Millinocket, Maine at 7:00am for a safety orientation, paddling instructions, and to gear up before a bus ride to the Penobscot River put in location.

Your River Trip - Including Lunch

A short ride up the Golden Road from the Katahdin Adventure Base Camp, you will meet your Registered Maine Whitewater Guide and launch your raft into the steep rock walls of Ripogenus Gorge, through the class V rapids of Exterminator and The Cribworks, to raft surfing at Big Amberjack. After a riverside lunch with steak, salmon, chicken, or veggie burger grilled over a hardwood fire, accompanied by stir-fried rice, salad, dessert, and beverages, get ready to tackle the 12′ drop over Nesowadnehunk Falls! This spot, endearingly referred to by river guides as the “whitewater playground”, is a fan favorite, where rafters spend time going over the waterfall, surfing, or watching all the action! But it’s not over yet- there are still two class IV rapids, Abol and Pockwockamus, before you take your raft out at Never’s Corner. Whew- it’s a busy, but FUN day!

Post River Trip

The rafting trip takeout is a short drive away from the base camp near Millinocket, Maine. Less time on the bus = more time on the river… and what a river it is! Back at base, your guides put on a slideshow of photos and video of you conquering the whitewater so grab a beer, kick back, and get ready to laugh!

Penobscot River Rafting Trip Details

Location:
Katahdin Adventure Base Camp
Located at the Big Moose Inn
Millinocket, Maine

Meeting Time: 7:00 AM

Difficulty: Class III-V rapids

Trip Duration: 8 hours

Distance: 14 miles

Season: May 25 – Sept 2

Trip Pricing:
Starts at $83+ Per Person

50% Off Kids Mon. + Fri.

View daily prices

Age Limits:
14 on Upper Penobscot
12 on Lower Penobscot

Registered Maine Guide: Level 2 Professional Whitewater Guide, licensed by the State of Maine to guide you down the river.

Lunch: Grilled riverside lunch, including your choice of steak, chicken, salmon, or veggie burger, alongside rice, salad, and dessert.

Transportation: Bus transportation to the river & back, leaving from Katahdin Adventure Basecamp.

Rafting Equipment: Raft, paddle, helmet, and PFD (Personal Floatation Device). Wetsuit rentals available.

What to Wear: Water-friendly clothing & shoes – here is our full list of recommended attire!

Wetsuit Rental: Available to rent at the front desk the morning of your trip. Options include:

Top Half (full neoprene) $5
Bottom Half (overall-style pants, full neoprene) $10
Splash Jacket (light rain and windproof covering) $5
Booties (full neoprene shoes) $5

Whitewater rafting on the Penobscot River is located at the Katahdin Adventure Basecamp at the Big Moose Inn in Millinocket, ME. Please note: this river trip is 2 hours away from our location in The Forks, so please be sure to call us to book lodging at the Big Moose Inn.

Cabins and Camping

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Pricing & Availability

Penobscot River Rafting

Penobscot River Rafting is class I-V whitewater rafting for ages 12 and up. Check available dates, and be sure to look at specials (like our kids rafting discount and 10% off for Heroes) before booking your trip!