Let's explore the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
Beautiful lakes, free flowing whitewater and bountiful wildlife make for an incredible 5-day experience on waterways that have been used for millennia by the Indigenous Wabanaki and are now protected as the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Paddling in tandem canoes, participants will learn paddling technique, basics of reading moving water, strategies for crossing windy lakes, forging whitewater rapids and will end their trip effortlessly maneuvering their boat. In addition to the paddling experience, the group will become proficient in outdoor living skills such as cooking over a fire, tying knots, wood processing, campcraft and more!
Please note: this trip is for adults only, all participants must be 21+.
Our Itinerary:
Join us on this memorable five-day canoe trip through the remote backcountry of northern Maine. Our journey begins at Umsaskis Lake, located deep within the North Maine Woods, and follows the historic Allagash River northward.
Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 1970, the Allagash River is celebrated for its role as a key Indigenous travel route, the inspiration for Henry David Thoreau’s book “The Maine Woods,” and a cornerstone in Maine’s logging history, featuring remnants of old logging dams, tramway artifacts, and abandoned logging camps.
Our group will spend five days on the river covering more than 45 miles, camping each night at one of the scenic campsites maintained by the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.
Our itineraryincludes overnight stays at Sandy Point, a quiet lakeside location near Umsaskis Lake; Cunliffe Island, an island campsite offering peaceful river views; Five Fingers Brook, historically significant for its proximity to early logging camps and trails; and Allagash Falls, an impressive natural landmark once integral to historic log drives.
Our trip concludes at West Twin Brook, leaving participants with lasting memories of exploration, natural beauty, and shared experiences.
*Note: The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions and river flow to ensure safety and enjoyment for all participants.
The Magic of a Chewonki Trip Experience:
What makes a Chewonki trip so special? It’s a blend of meeting new people, making strong group connections, trying new things, working together to support camp tasks, all while exploring beautiful places. While we’ll guide you through the process, you’ll be expected to pitch in, whether it’s chopping peppers for dinner, stoking the fire, or participating in a cleanup crew after meals to contribute to the group’s success.
This trip includes all the essential gear you’ll need for the adventure, including your canoes, paddles, life jackets, tents, and all other group gear items. We’re able to loan out dry bags, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads if needed. Make sure you read the packing list to ensure you arrive well prepared.
Dates and Rates:
Pre-trip orientation on Thursday, July 31 at 7pm
Trip dates Friday, August 1 – Tuesday, August 5
Length: 5 Days
Eligible Ages: Must be 21+
Group Size: 8-10 participants and 2 trip leaders
Starting Location: Wiscasset Maine
Cost: $1,600 per person
Questions? Please Contact Us!
- Phone: (207) 656-5001
- Email: outdoors@chewonki.org
Essential Eligibility Information
Terms and Conditions
Program Cancellation:
If Chewonki cancels a program, participants will receive a full-tuition refund, including any deposit.
Participant Cancellation:
- Between 30 and 60 days prior to the course start date, Chewonki will retain 25 percent of the course tuition
- Between 15 and 29 days prior to the course start date, Chewonki will retain 50 percent of the course tuition
- Less than 15 days prior to the course start date or after the course has begun, there will be no refunds.
Dismissals:
Chewonki reserves the right to dismiss a participant from the program for any reason, including but not limited to, breaking the conditions of our Participant Behavior Agreement, no refund will be issued.
We encourage you to visit this webpage to learn more about our participant guidelines including the Participant Behavior Agreement, Our Privacy Policy, the Essential Eligibility Criteria, and our Non-Discrimination Policy.
Force Majeure:
Chewonki shall not be held liable for failure of or delay in performing its obligations hereunder if such failure or delay is the result of a force majeure, such as natural disasters (earthquake, hurricane, tornado, or flooding, etc.), biological outbreak (epidemic or pandemic), or in the case of war or actions of foreign enemies, labor dispute or strike, government imposed sanctions or restrictions, or failure of electrical service. Chewonki will attempt to meet its obligation and minimize the delay of performance.
