Whitewater Rafting Maine: Kennebec, Penobscot or Dead?

Choosing the right river for your Maine whitewater rafting adventure can feel like navigating a rapid itself. With options like the popular Kennebec River, the challenging Penobscot River, and the exclusive Dead River, understanding the basics is key. We’ll explore the river classification system, the unique role of dam releases in Maine rafting, and compare the state’s “Big Three” rivers to help you find the perfect Maine river trip. Let’s dive into what makes Maine is home to the best whitewater rafting in the northeast.

This guide will break down the unique characteristics of each major river, offer suggestions based on your group’s experience level, and provide practical tips for planning your whitewater adventure, from choosing an outfitter to knowing what river gear to bring. Are you ready to find your ideal Maine whitewater experience?

Understanding Maine Whitewater Basics

Before you dip a paddle into Maine‘s renowned rivers, grasping some fundamental concepts is helpful. Understanding how whitewater rapids are classified gives you a clearer picture of the challenge ahead. Equally important is knowing why Maine offers such dependable rafting conditions throughout the season – a benefit largely owed to its system of dam-controlled rivers. This knowledge forms the bedrock for choosing the right adventure.

Decoding River Difficulty Classes

Rapids across the globe are categorized using a standard scale, ranging from simple Class I moving water up to the extreme challenges of Class VI. In Maine, the heart of commercial river rafting beats within the Class III to Class V range. Familiarizing yourself with these ratings helps calibrate your expectations for the whitewater river‘s intensity; it’s the common language guides use to describe the journey downstream.

Class III rapids offer a spirited and engaging ride. Picture moderate, irregular waves capable of splashing enthusiastically over the raft‘s bow. These sections demand active maneuvering from both the guide and the paddling crew. While some obstacles might appear, they are generally avoidable with good teamwork. It’s a genuinely thrilling experience, often ideal for adventurous beginners or families seeking whitewater excitement thanks to manageable whitewater.

Stepping up to Class IV means encountering more pronounced river power. These rapids present intense, forceful, yet generally predictable challenges. Anticipate large, often unavoidable waves, swirling turbulent water, and potential obstructions demanding precise boat handling. Successfully navigating Class IV water requires strong teamwork, more aggressive paddling, and quick responses to your guide’s commands. Have you felt the pull of such powerful currents?

Class V represents the pinnacle of commercially guided whitewater adventures in Maine. These rapids are characterized by their length, complexity, obstructions, or sheer violence. They often feature intricate routes with significant drops, large unavoidable waves, and powerful, swirling currents or eddies. Navigating these safely necessitates expert guiding skills, a physically capable crew paddling in perfect coordination, and inherently carries a higher level of risk for whitewater rafters.

Keep in mind that the classification provides a reliable guide, but the feel of a rapid can shift with changing water levels. A Class IV rapid during the high flows of spring might present a much more formidable challenge than the same rapid during lower summer levels. Guides possess the expertise to assess and safely navigate these variations daily.

The Power of Dam Releases

Maine‘s premier rafting rivers – the Kennebec, Penobscot, and Dead – possess a unique advantage thanks to their connection to hydroelectric dams. Unlike waterways entirely dependent on unpredictable rainfall or snowmelt, these dams facilitate scheduled water releases. This system operates throughout the typical May to October rafting season, ensuring remarkably consistent and predictable whitewater conditions most days.

This dam-controlled reliability is a significant benefit when arranging your Maine trip. You can confidently book your adventure weeks or even months ahead, knowing that suitable water levels are highly probable. This dependability removes much of the guesswork often associated with weather-dependent rivers elsewhere and stands as a cornerstone of Maine‘s reputation as a top-tier rafting destination. It allows us to plan with certainty.

Outfitters stay in close communication with dam operators and typically make high water release schedules available. These schedules detail daily flow rates, measured in cubic feet per second (CFS), and announce special high-water dates. Access to this information empowers rafters to select a date that aligns with your desired level of intensity, from standard daily flows to significantly higher, more challenging volumes.

The Dead River operates under a different system. Its renowned powerful whitewater character depends on a limited schedule of specific high-water releases, usually around eight per year, originating from Long Falls Dam. These pre-announced dates are essential for creating the sought-after Class IV+ conditions the river is famed for. Booking well in advance is crucial due to the high demand for these exclusive opportunities on the Dead Rivers.

The volume of water released (CFS) directly shapes the river‘s personality and difficulty on any given day. Higher CFS generally translates to bigger waves, swifter currents, and more powerful hydraulic features. It can even push certain rapids into a higher classification temporarily. Understanding the scheduled flow helps tailor the river experience to your group’s preferences for challenge and excitement.

Comparing Maine’s Big Three Rivers

Maine proudly presents three distinct whitewater jewels: the Kennebec River, Penobscot River, and Dead River. Each carves its own path through the wilderness, offering a unique blend of rapids, scenery, and overall character. Understanding their individual personalities is the first step in choosing which whitewater river calls to you. Let’s compare these titans side-by-side.

Kennebec River: Popular Fun

The Kennebec reigns as Maine‘s most popular rafting destination, striking an excellent balance between exhilarating rapids and scenic relaxation. A typical Kennebec River trip begins with exciting Class III-IV whitewater surging through the upper gorge, followed by a calmer float amidst beautiful wilderness downstream. Covering about 12-14 miles, it provides a full day of varied enjoyment, appealing widely to first-timers and families undertaking a popular rafting adventure.

Launching below Harris Station Dam, the journey immediately plunges into a dramatic, steep-walled gorge (gorg). This initial section is packed with big, splashy waves and notable rapids that demand attention. The famous “Magic Falls” serves as a thrilling highlight, complemented by other significant drops that deliver an exciting, almost roller-coaster-like start to the day’s adventure.

After navigating approximately five miles of intense gorge rapids, the river‘s character and the surrounding landscape transform. The riverbed widens, the current gently slows, and the focus shifts towards enjoying the serene wilderness environment. This lower stretch offers ample opportunities to hop in for a swim alongside the raft, soak in the peaceful scenery, and perhaps spot local Maine wildlife, providing a pleasant contrast to the morning’s high energy at terrific swimming holes.

With minimum ages typically set between 8 and 10 years old (verify with your chosen outfitter), the Kennebec is widely regarded as the ideal choice for families wanting a true Maine whitewater adventure. The blend of accessible thrills and downstream relaxation caters well to groups with mixed ages and comfort levels, ensuring almost everyone leaves with a smile. Many rivers family groups choose this option.

For those craving a more potent Kennebec experience, four special “Turbine Test” dates are scheduled each season. These events feature significantly higher flows, around 8000 CFS. These powerful releases dramatically amplify the river‘s energy, transforming the rapids into a solid Class IV+ challenge. These days are better suited for more adventurous rafters, often carrying a higher minimum age requirement (around 14+).

Penobscot River: Technical Challenge

Flowing in the shadow of the magnificent Mt. Katahdin near Baxter State Park, the Penobscot River presents Maine‘s most technically demanding commercial whitewater run. It stands as the undisputed champion for experienced rafters and adrenaline seekers craving Class V challenges amidst truly breathtaking northern Maine scenery. A full-day Penobscot River rafting trip typically covers 13-14 miles of intense, focused paddling.

The heart and soul of the Penobscot experience resides within the formidable Ripogenus Gorge (ripogenous gorg). This steep, granite-walled canyon houses legendary Class V rapids like “Exterminator” and “The Cribworks.” These sections feature significant drops, powerful churning hydraulics, and complex, technical routes that demand expert guidance and precise, perfectly coordinated paddling from the entire rafting team.

The Penobscot is characterized by its “pool-drop” nature. This means sections of intense, technically demanding rapids are often interspersed with calmer pools of water downstream. While these pools offer brief moments to regroup and catch your breath, this characteristic necessitates strong, coordinated paddling bursts to successfully navigate the challenging drops and turbulent features. It makes for a physically demanding day on the water.

Reflecting its intensity and technical demands, the minimum age for the full Penobscot trip is typically higher than the Kennebec‘s. Outfitters often set the limit at 12, 14, or even 15 years old, depending on the company and prevailing water levels. This higher threshold makes it less suitable for families with younger children seeking a shared rafting adventure.

For the truly dedicated whitewater enthusiast wanting maximum time grappling with the most challenging sections, some outfitters offer “Double Trouble” or similarly named trip options. These typically involve running the most intense part of the river, usually the Ripogenus Gorge section, twice in a single day. This delivers an extra potent dose of Class V adrenaline for those who seek it.

Dead River: Exclusive Intensity

The Dead River earns its formidable reputation by offering the longest continuous stretch of whitewater in the Northeast. Spanning approximately 16 miles, it features roughly 30 named rapids, providing sustained non-stop whitewater action and a different rhythm compared to the Penobscot‘s pool-drop style. This relentless excitement defines the full-day Dead River experience, demanding stamina and focus from rafters.

Accessing the Dead River‘s full, roaring power is an exclusive affair. Unlike the daily reliable flows of its counterparts, the Dead depends entirely on a limited schedule of only about eight high-water dam releases per year from Long Falls Dam. This scarcity makes Dead River trips highly coveted among enthusiasts, necessitating booking well in advance to secure a spot on one of these special dates.

The river‘s personality shifts dramatically based on the volume of the scheduled release, measured in CFS. High flows (5000-6000+ CFS) create powerful Class IV to IV+ conditions, ideal for experienced rafters seeking big waves and continuous action. Medium flows (around 3500-4000 CFS) offer a fun, splashy Class III-IV “surfing” style experience, while lower flows yield milder Class II-III conditions suitable for different groups.

The journey down the Dead involves navigating numerous named rapids, each presenting its own challenge. Noteworthy sections include powerful rips, boulder-strewn fields requiring careful maneuvering, lengthy stretches demanding endurance, and demanding finales that test your remaining energy. The continuous nature means less recovery time between the action compared to Maine‘s other major rafting rivers.

Paddling the Dead River offers a distinct sense of remoteness as it flows through largely undeveloped wilderness tracts of the North Maine Woods. It’s particularly famous for its spectacular scenery during the fall foliage season. The September and October releases are especially popular, combining the thrill of high water river rafting with the vibrant, unforgettable colors of autumn in Maine. Have you ever witnessed fall colors from the unique perspective of a river?

Choosing Your Ideal River Trip

Selecting the perfect Maine river hinges on understanding your group’s dynamics. Consider the ages involved, previous rafting experience (or lack thereof), collective appetite for adventure versus relaxation, and whether scenic beauty or intense rapids are the priority. Matching these factors to the river‘s personality is key to crafting an unforgettable whitewater adventure for everyone involved.

Best Options for Families

For most families, particularly those with children aged roughly 8 to 12, the Kennebec River stands out as the primary recommendation. Its well-rounded nature, featuring exciting Class III-IV rapids followed by a relaxing scenic float, provides a balanced adventure. This appeals to a wide range of ages and comfort levels, and the typical minimum age of 8 or 10 makes it broadly accessible for a family rafting trip.

If your family includes very young children (often age 5+) or if you prefer a very gentle introduction to river travel, look for outfitters offering calmer float trips. These are often focused specifically on the Lower Kennebec section. Such trips feature mild Class I-II ripples, emphasizing swimming opportunities and enjoying the scenery without the intensity of the upper gorge rapids. An easy river float can be perfect.

A different kind of family fun can be found using inflatable kayaks, often called “funyaks” or “duckies.” Many outfitters offer these inflatable kayaking trips, frequently on the Kennebec‘s lower section or during lower water flow periods. These smaller, more maneuverable boats allow participants (often age 10+) to navigate milder rapids more independently, adding a layer of personal engagement and control. Consider white water kayaking for a different challenge.

While high-flow Dead River trips are unsuitable for young children due to their intensity, the infrequent lower “surfing flow” dates (around 3500 CFS) might present an option. On these specific dates, minimum ages could potentially drop to 8 or 10. Check carefully with outfitters about age limits for these specific, less intense Dead River releases if considering this route.

The full Penobscot trip, with its demanding Class V rapids, carries high age minimums (typically 12-15). Some outfitters, however, might offer trips focusing only on less intense sections of the river. Alternatively, some may have policies allowing younger rafters (e.g., 10-12) to bypass the most difficult rapids by walking around them with a guide. This requires detailed inquiry with specific companies regarding their policies for Penobscot River rafting.

Top Picks for First-Timers

The Kennebec River consistently earns the highest recommendation for individuals trying whitewater rafting for the first time. Its blend of exciting yet generally manageable rapids (III-IV rapids), beautiful scenery, reliable daily water flows, and the relaxing lower float provides an almost perfect introduction. It welcomes newcomers warmly to the world of whitewater; no prior experience is ever needed for this Maine adventure.

It’s vital for newcomers to understand that commercial rafting trips are guided adventures. You don’t need any prior paddling skills or river knowledge. Professional Maine guides deliver comprehensive safety briefings and clear paddling instructions before you even approach the river. This preparation makes these trips accessible and enjoyable for complete novices looking for outdoor adventure.

For adventurous first-timers intrigued by the Dead River‘s reputation for continuous rapids, a medium-flow (around 3500-4000 CFS) or lower-flow day could be considered. These specific release levels offer Class III-IV excitement but are typically less demanding than the high-flow dates. The limited release schedule, however, remains a significant planning factor requiring advance booking for this whitewater river trip.

The Kennebec is often described using metaphors like a “roller coaster on water,” emphasizing its big, splashy waves and the sheer fun factor. This welcoming atmosphere, combined with the beautiful scenery and chances for swimming during the calmer sections, makes it a less intimidating and highly enjoyable first taste of whitewater for most people. What could be more inviting for Maine outdoors exploration?

The Kennebec‘s wide appeal also makes it an excellent choice for groups containing individuals with varying levels of adventurousness or apprehension. Its balanced nature ensures that everyone, from the slightly hesitant participant to the eager thrill-seeker, can find enjoyment and feel comfortable throughout the day. This often leads to a positive and memorable shared experience for the whole group.

Thrills for Experienced Rafters

When the primary goal is tackling Maine‘s most technically demanding whitewater and true Class V rapids, the Penobscot River stands as the premier choice. The challenging drops, powerful hydraulics, and iconic Ripogenus Gorge section provide a significant test of paddling skill, nerve, and essential teamwork for seasoned rafters seeking the ultimate challenge. Veteran rafters often favor this river.

A high-flow release day on the Dead River (5000+ CFS, especially 6000+ CFS) offers a different flavor of intensity. It’s less about intricate technical moves through boulder gardens and more about sustained, powerful, high-volume Class IV+ whitewater over a demanding 16-mile course. It’s often described accurately as a “roaring freight train” of continuous, relentless action where rafts plunge through waves.

Don’t overlook the Kennebec River on its four annual Turbine Test dates. The massive 8000 CFS flow dramatically transforms the river into a potent Class IV+ experience unlike its daily runs. It delivers huge, powerful waves and challenging hydraulic features quite distinct from the standard raft flow days, offering a unique high-water thrill on Maine‘s most frequented river.

Seeking to amplify the river‘s feel and your connection to the current? Many outfitters offer the option of riding in smaller “Sport Rafts” (e.g., 13-14 feet compared to standard 16+ foot rafts). Paddling in these significantly intensifies the sensation of the rapids on any river, providing a more dynamic, wetter, and potentially more exciting ride, especially favored by smaller groups craving maximum action. A private raft might use these smaller boats.

For experienced rafters who want to maximize their time immersed in the crucible of Class V whitewater, opting for a “Double Trouble” trip on the Penobscot is the ultimate pursuit. Running the demanding Ripogenus Gorge section twice in one day delivers a concentrated, unforgettable dose of Class V action and requires significant stamina.

Finding Your Maine Rafting Outfitter

Choosing the right outfitter is just as crucial as selecting the right river for your Maine adventure. Numerous licensed companies operate in the state, primarily based near the key river hubs: The Forks (for Kennebec and Dead) and Millinocket, Maine (for Penobscot). Understanding the different operators and considering their base camp offerings, especially lodging, plays a significant role in the overall quality of your experience.

Major Outfitters Overview

Rest assured that Maine‘s whitewater industry is well-regulated. The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) licenses commercial outfitters annually. Selecting a licensed outfitter guarantees they meet state safety standards, employ qualified guides holding current certifications, and adhere to strict operational requirements, providing essential peace of mind for your adventure.

The Forks area serves as the primary base for most outfitters running the Kennebec and Dead Rivers, creating a vibrant hub for rafting activity. For Penobscot trips, companies are typically located in or operate near Millinocket, offering closer proximity to Baxter State Park and the river‘s access points. Some may have bases in other locations like Bingham, Maine or Shirley Mills, requiring transport to the rivers.

Outfitters come in different sizes and operational styles. You’ll find large resort-style operations boasting extensive amenities like restaurants, pubs, swimming pools, and diverse lodging options. Others are smaller, perhaps family-run operations offering a more intimate feel and personalized service. Consider the “vibe” and scale that best suits your group’s preferences. Northeast Whitewater offers Northeast Whitewater lodging options like yurts.

Several major companies guide trips on all three major rivers (Kennebec, Penobscot, Dead). This can be convenient if your group is considering different rivers during your visit or if you prefer an operator with broad experience across Maine‘s diverse whitewater offerings. Researching their specific programs for each river is still advisable. North Country Rivers is one such operator.

Some outfitters tend to specialize in specific rivers or cater to particular niches within the rafting market. For example, certain companies might focus heavily on the Kennebec and Dead from their Forks base, while others have a stronger operational presence on the Penobscot near Millinocket. Investigating which rivers an outfitter emphasizes can sometimes be helpful in your selection process.

Basecamp Lodging & Amenities

Given the often remote locations of river put-ins and the typically early start times for full-day rafting trips, many participants choose to stay overnight near the outfitter’s base. Most major outfitters recognize this need and offer various on-site or nearby lodging options. These can range from basic camping at a campground to bunkhouses, comfortable cabins, unique yurts, or full-service inn or lodge rooms, potentially turning a day trip into a mini-vacation at a Maine resort.

Cabins are a perennially popular lodging choice, varying significantly in size, style, and included amenities. You can find everything from simple, rustic cabins perfect for a couple, up to large “Logdominiums” or multi-bedroom units (river cottages) equipped with kitchens and common areas. These larger options are suitable for families or groups seeking comfort, privacy, and self-catering facilities. Sometimes a river cottage sits right near the water.

Tent and RV camping sites are commonly available at many outfitter basecamps, often providing access to shared bathhouses and basic facilities. For a more comfortable yet still nature-focused experience, some outfitters offer unique “glamping” options like yurts. These structures might feature beds, electricity, and access to modern shared facilities, blending outdoor immersion with creature comforts near Moosehead Lake.

Many basecamps feature on-site restaurants and pubs or bars, creating convenient social hubs for enjoying post-trip meals, sharing stories, and relaxing with fellow rafters. Some larger resort-style outfitters also boast additional amenities like a heated swimming pool, hot tubs, game rooms, or access to other activities such as hiking trails or ATV rentals, significantly enhancing the overall resort experience at this outdoor adventure destination. Consider a 4-season adventure resort.

Consider the physical location of the base camp relative to the river take-out point. Some outfitters enjoy a prime location directly at the end of the rafting run for a particular river. This can eliminate the need for a post-trip bus ride back to base after you’re tired and wet, a convenience factor that some rafters appreciate. The Forks Resort center is a popular hub.

Planning Your White River Rafting Maine Adventure

Once you’ve narrowed down your river choice and identified potential outfitters, it’s time to focus on the practical details of planning your white river rafting maine adventure. This section covers what is typically included in a standard Maine rafting trip package, how pricing structures often work, the best times of year to go, essential safety information, and what river gear you’ll need to bring for a comfortable day on the water.

What’s Included in Trips

Every commercial raft trip includes a Registered Maine Whitewater Guide licensed by the state. These professional Maine guides are responsible for ensuring your safety, providing paddling instruction, skillfully navigating the river‘s challenges, and often sharing interesting local knowledge. Their expertise is fundamental to a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone aboard the raft. Typically 8-9 paddlers are in a standard raft.

Outfitters provide all the essential river-specific gear required for the trip. This includes the raft itself, paddles for everyone, certified helmets, and approved personal flotation devices (PFDs), more commonly known as life jackets. Wearing helmets and PFDs is mandatory, ensuring everyone has the necessary core safety equipment for navigating whitewater. Comfortable river gear is key.

The trip package typically includes all necessary shuttle transportation. This covers the ride from the outfitter’s base camp to the river put-in (the starting point) and the return trip from the take-out (the ending point) back to the base camp. This logistical support makes accessing these often remote river sections straightforward and hassle-free for participants.

A full-day rafting trip almost always includes a substantial meal to refuel after your efforts on the river. This is typically served as a riverside BBQ during a break or as a cookout back at the base camp after the rafting concludes. Expect hearty options often featuring grilled items, salads, sides, and dessert, providing a satisfying end to an adventurous day.

Most outfitters employ photographers strategically positioned at key rapids to capture the action throughout the day. After the trip, they usually present a slideshow or video compilation back at the base camp. This offers a fun way to see yourselves and your crew navigating the whitewater, with photos and videos typically available for purchase as souvenirs.

While core river gear like PFDs and helmets are included, thermal protection like wetsuits, splash jackets, and river booties are often available for rent at an additional cost (perhaps $15-$30 total). Renting these items is highly recommended, especially during the colder water temperatures of spring and fall, significantly enhancing comfort and safety. Some premium packages might include these rentals. Check about river tube rentals if interested in tubing.

Understanding Costs and Season

Expect standard full-day rafting trips in Maine to cost roughly in the range of $80 to $150+ per person, but be aware that prices can vary significantly. Key factors influencing the cost include the specific river chosen (Dead River trips often command a premium), the day of the week (Saturdays are typically peak price), the time of season (summer weekends are prime), and special high-water releases which often have higher rates.

The main rafting season reliably runs from May through October, largely thanks to the consistent dam releases on the major rivers. July and August represent the peak summer months, offering the warmest air and water temperatures. However, this period also tends to see the highest prices and potentially larger crowds on the rivers and at base camps.

The shoulder seasons offer distinct advantages. Spring (May-June) often features higher natural water levels from snowmelt, potentially more exciting rapids, and sometimes lower prices, though the water will be colder. Fall (September-October) brings stunning foliage, potentially higher flows again (especially for scheduled Dead River releases), fewer crowds than summer, and crisp air, making it a favorite time for many experienced rafters.

Booking your trip well in advance is always recommended, especially if planning for weekends, specific Dead River release dates, or coordinating a large group. Don’t hesitate to inquire about potential discounts; many outfitters offer reduced rates for large groups, youth organizations, or package deals that combine rafting with riverside lodging. Discounts may be available for Maine residents or Maine neighbors.

Remember that the quoted base price for a rafting trip usually doesn’t include state and local taxes or mandatory river access fees. These additional charges can add approximately $5 to $15 or more per person to the final cost. Factor these in, along with potential expenses for wetsuit rentals, purchasing photos or videos, and optional gratuities for your guide (the boatman).

Safety and What to Bring

Whitewater rafting is inherently an adventure sport that involves risks, which participants acknowledge by signing liability waivers. However, Maine‘s well-regulated commercial rafting industry boasts a strong safety record. This is due to strict guide licensing requirements, mandatory first aid and CPR certifications for guides, comprehensive training protocols, and equipment standards enforced by the state’s regulatory agencies.

Your primary safety asset on the river is your Registered Maine Whitewater Guide. These professionals undergo rigorous training, including extensive on-river experience assessments and written exams covering safety procedures and river knowledge. This ensures they possess the necessary skills to navigate the river safely. Many outfitters provide additional advanced training like Swiftwater Rescue certification for their guide staff.

Regarding personal gear, the cardinal rule is absolutely no cotton. Cotton fabrics absorb water, lose their insulating properties when wet, and can lead to dangerous hypothermia. Instead, wear quick-drying synthetic materials like fleece or polypropylene, or wool layers. Secure footwear is also essential – choose river sandals with straps, water shoes, or old sneakers you don’t mind getting wet. Flip-flops are unsuitable and often prohibited. A swimsuit or shorts to wear under layers and a windbreaker or rain jacket are also key items of river apparel.

Bring a complete change of dry clothes, including shoes, and a towel to leave in your vehicle or at the base camp for after the trip. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen (waterproof is best), sunglasses secured with a strap, any necessary personal medications (inform your guide beforehand), and potentially a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Proper preparation prevents discomfort later. Check if kayaking or canoeing gear differs.

No prior rafting experience or expert swimming ability is required to participate in a commercial trip. Guides provide all necessary instruction, and the mandatory PFDs (life jackets) ensure flotation if you happen to go for an unexpected swim. Being generally comfortable in water and having a basic level of fitness to assist with paddling is helpful for enjoyment. One common mistake is underestimating how much paddling might be involved.

Rafting trips typically run rain or shine. Getting wet is an inherent part of the experience, and paddling in the rain can still be enjoyable if you are dressed appropriately in non-cotton layers and perhaps a splash jacket. Outfitters rarely cancel trips due to rain alone, though severe thunderstorms might cause delays.

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