Epic Adventures on Maine’s Old Canada Road Byway: Whitewater Rafting and Scenic Hiking Await!
Region: Kennebec and Moose River Valley
Length: 78 miles
Travel Time: A day to enjoy or 3 hours for a direct drive
Highlights: Whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain views, rivers, lakes, wildlife, scenic overlooks, camping, boating
Adventures on Maine's Old Canada Road Byway (Route 201) a picturesque journey through some of the state’s most rugged and beautiful wilderness. This historic byway, running from Solon to Jackman, offers more than just a scenic drive — it's the gateway to thrilling whitewater rafting and some of Maine’s best hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for the adrenaline rush of paddling down Class V rapids or the peacefulness of hiking through serene forests, adventures on Maine Old Canada road Route 201 has something for every outdoor adventurer.
Whitewater Rafting Adventures Along Route 201
The Kennebec and Moose River Valley is a prime destination for whitewater rafting, with several iconic rivers providing exciting rapids, breathtaking scenery, and expert guides ready to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Kennebec River – The Forks, ME
Difficulty: Class III-IV
Best Time to Raft: May to October
Highlights: Experience the power of the Kennebec River, one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in the Northeast. With guaranteed water releases from the Harris Station Dam, this river offers consistent rapids and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Don’t miss Magic Falls, one of the most exciting sections of the river!
Rafting Outfitters: Northern Outdoors, Three Rivers Whitewater
2. Dead River – The Forks, ME
Difficulty: Class IV-V (on high-water release days)
Best Time to Raft: Select days in spring and summer
Highlights: For experienced rafters, the Dead River offers Maine’s longest stretch of continuous whitewater, with 16 miles of rapids. High-water days are the most thrilling, creating intense Class V rapids that provide an unforgettable challenge.
Rafting Outfitters: Moxie Outdoor Adventures, Three Rivers Whitewater
Best Hiking Trails Along Route 201
In addition to thrilling rafting, the Old Canada Road is home to several stunning hiking trails, offering opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty on foot. Whether you’re looking for an easy family-friendly walk or a challenging mountain summit, these trails won’t disappoint.
1. Moxie Falls – The Forks, ME
Length: 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: One of Maine’s highest waterfalls, Moxie Falls is a must-see. The trail is short and easy, perfect for families or those looking for a quick hike before or after a rafting trip. The 90-foot falls are especially impressive in spring or after heavy rains.
Location: Near The Forks, off Route 201
2. Appalachian Trail – Pleasant Pond Mountain, Caratunk, ME
Length: 3.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Highlights: This segment of the famous Appalachian Trail takes you to the summit of Pleasant Pond Mountain, offering stunning views of Pleasant Pond and the surrounding wilderness. It’s a moderately challenging hike, perfect for those looking to combine a scenic trek with panoramic views.
Location: Accessible from Caratunk, near Route 201
3. Coburn Mountain – The Forks, ME
Length: 4.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: As the highest peak in the region, Coburn Mountain offers sweeping 360-degree views from the top. The hike is challenging, but the reward is worth it. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be able to see the Bigelow Range and the Kennebec River from above.
Location: Near The Forks, off Route 201
4. Mount Kineo – Moosehead Lake, ME
Length: 3.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: A short ferry ride from Rockwood will take you to the trailhead for Mount Kineo, which rises dramatically from the waters of Moosehead Lake. The hike to the summit offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding forests. This is a must-do hike for anyone in the Moosehead region.
Location: Rockwood, ferry access to Mount Kineo
Combine Rafting and Hiking for the Ultimate Adventure
For outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the best of both worlds, Route 201 offers the perfect opportunity to combine whitewater rafting with scenic hiking. Spend the morning tackling the rapids of the Kennebec or Dead River, then relax with an afternoon hike to Moxie Falls or the summit of Coburn Mountain.
Suggested Itinerary:
Morning: Raft the Kennebec River with one of the local outfitters in The Forks.
Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the riverside cafes or pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic Moxie Falls.
Afternoon: Hike the Moxie Falls trail to see one of Maine's tallest waterfalls, or challenge yourself with a hike up Coburn Mountain for stunning summit views.
Best Time to Visit
The Kennebec and Moose River Valley is a four-season destination, but the best time to enjoy both rafting and hiking is spring through fall. In spring, rivers are swollen with snowmelt, making for thrilling rapids, while summer offers the warmest weather for both hiking and rafting. Fall foliage season in late September to mid-October transforms the landscape into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, making the hiking trails even more picturesque.
Conclusion
The Old Canada Road offers adventurers a unique blend of exhilarating whitewater rafting and scenic hiking. Whether you’re navigating the rapids of the Kennebec River or trekking to the summit of Coburn Mountain, this region promises unforgettable experiences surrounded by the rugged beauty of Maine’s wilderness. So, pack your gear, hit the road, and discover the adventure that awaits along Route 201!
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.
Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.
Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
For more information on rafting and hiking opportunities along Route 201, visit Maine's Official Visitor Website.