Water Sports
Touring the Old Canada Road
From quiet ponds to rapids rivers, the Upper Kennebec Valley is a water lover’s paradise. Along the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway, you’ll find endless opportunities for paddling, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting. Whether you’re drifting through calm waters on a hot summer day or tackling rapids in the spring melt, this region offers every kind of water adventure—from peaceful to pulse-pounding.
Tubing and Kayaking
Float on down the Kennebec River on a hot summer day!
Most tubing adventures begin in at the Ball Field at the bridge in The Forks. Be sure you know the water release schedule so high water reaches the Ball Field before you take off!
Bring your own watercraft or find an outfitter that rents and guides tubing and kayaking adventures.
Paddling
Canoe paddling on the Moose River outside of Jackman is a favorite trip. Outfitters offer guided trips and instruction, complete with packages that include equipment, delicious meals, and lodging, from camping to cabins, Inns, or resorts with full amenities.
Other folks like to discover the beauty of boating on Big Woods Lake and Attean Lake, both in Jackman.
Whitewater Rafting
The Upper Kennebec Valley from Bingham to Jackman is whitewater rafting territory. Two rivers meet in The Forks and form the area’s hub as Maine’s rafting center from May to October.
Find the thrill of navigating class 2 to class 5 rapids on the Dead and Kennebec Rivers. Area outfitters can provide full-day trips, 7 days a week. Rafting on the Kennebec takes you through a 12-mile gorge and on the Dead River you’ll experience the longest stretch of continuous whitewater in the East – 16 miles!
Area outfitters offer complete adventure packages.
If you enjoy being on the water to relax or pushing through whitewater for the thrills, you can find both on Old Canada Road!
Motorcycling
Ride the Old Canada Road by motorcycle for open roads, scenic curves, and unforgettable views. Experience Maine’s wilderness without traffic or red lights.
Whitewater Rafting
Experience Maine’s best whitewater rafting in The Forks. Paddle the Kennebec or Dead Rivers, ride Class III–V rapids, and enjoy guided trips all season long.
Water Sports
From the relaxation of canoeing to the exhilaration of whitewater rafting, the rivers and lakes on Old Canada Road have water sports for all!