Canoeing the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
Maine’s Premier Canoe Route
The Allagash Wilderness Waterway offers one of the most legendary canoe trips in the United States. Stretching over 92 miles of lakes, rivers, and streams, it provides paddlers with a rare chance to experience true wilderness.
The Canoeing Experience on the Allagash
Canoeing the Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a bucket-list journey for outdoor enthusiasts. The trip can last anywhere from three days to over a week depending on your chosen route. Paddlers glide across pristine waters framed by thick pine forests, while loons, bald eagles, and even moose make regular appearances. Portages around iconic areas such as Allagash Falls add variety and challenge, while long stretches of calm water provide moments of pure tranquility.
This waterway has a storied past tied to Maine’s logging history, and today it remains one of the few places in the East where visitors can immerse themselves in true wilderness with little sign of modern life.
Best Local Canoeing Guides
Booking a registered Maine guide enhances the experience, as they bring local knowledge, safety expertise, and storytelling that connects paddlers to the land’s history. Some of the top outfitters and guides include:
Allagash Canoe Trips – Family-owned operation with deep local knowledge of the river.
Allagash Guide Service – ore than 30 years of exceptional and unforgettable canoe trips in Maine.
L.L.Bean Outdoor Adventures – designed to give people of all skill levels a memorable experience led by skilled Maine guides.
Local Tips for Canoeing the Allagash
Plan for portages: Be ready to carry gear around Allagash Falls and other sections.
Go self-sufficient: Cell service is minimal to nonexistent, so bring maps and navigation tools.
Wildlife etiquette: Moose, bear, and eagles are common—keep a safe distance and respect their space.
Permits & rules: Overnight trips require camping permits, and certain fire restrictions may apply.
Where to Rent Canoes
If you prefer to paddle on your own, several outfitters offer canoe rentals, shuttle services, and logistical support:
Allagash Gateway Campground & Outfitters – Canoe rentals plus vehicle shuttle services.
Katahdin Outfitters – Remote access and canoe rentals for longer trips.
Where to Eat After a Long Paddle
Most of your meals will be on the river, but before launching or after paddling out, you’ll find great local food nearby:
Two Rivers Lunch (Allagash Village) – Classic Maine diner fare.
North Woods Trading Post (Millinocket) – Grab sandwiches and supplies.
River Drivers Restaurant (Millinocket) – Casual spot with hearty meals and lake views.
Where to Stay
If you’d like a mix of rustic comfort before or after your canoe trip, consider:
Allagash Gateway Campground – Cabins and campsites right at the southern entrance.
Chesuncook Lake House – Remote lodging accessible by water, offering a step back in time.
Lodge at Moosehead Lake – A more luxurious stay if combining your trip with a Moosehead visit.
Private homes near Allagash - Stay at a cozy camp near the river.
Best Time to Canoe the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
Late May – June: Best water levels, fewer bugs early in the season.
July – August: Warm weather, longer daylight, but more popular.
September – October: Crisp air, brilliant fall foliage, and fewer paddlers.