moderate
3–6 hours depending on trip selection
Participants should be in decent physical shape with basic swimming skills.
North Country Rivers in Bingham, Maine delivers heart-pounding whitewater rafting on the Penobscot and Kennebec Rivers. From family-friendly runs to advanced rapids, their trips combine expert guides and rugged river terrain for an unforgettable Maine adventure.
Located in Bingham, Maine, North Country Rivers offers some of the most dynamic river trips in the Northeast, focusing on the Penobscot and Kennebec Rivers. These waterways carve through rugged forested lands marked by granite outcrops and cascading rapids, creating an ideal playground for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The company’s signature offerings—the Penobscot Full River Trip, Penobscot River Ultimate Trip, and Kennebec Lower River Trip—stand out for their blend of thrilling rapids and scenic river corridors.
The Penobscot River, historically a vital corridor for Maine’s logging industry, now pulses with seasonal flow changes that provide a range of raftable difficulties. The Ultimate Trip option includes navigating the Turbine Test release, a high-volume stretch revered by advanced paddlers for its challenging whitewater. On the Kennebec Lower River Trip, the river’s powerful current threads through narrow gorges and under lush canopy, punctuated by adrenaline-packed rapids that keep rafters fully engaged.
North Country Rivers mixes experienced guide expertise with high-quality equipment and thoughtful hospitality. Visitors often praise the personable guides who not only manage the river’s unpredictability with confidence but also enrich trips with local stories and safety insights. Accommodations in rustic onsite cabins and hearty post-rafting meals offer a chance to relax and recharge after the day’s exertions, making North Country Rivers a well-rounded destination for families, groups, and outdoor seekers of all skill levels.
Beyond the raft, the surrounding region is a gateway to Maine’s wilderness, offering hiking paths, ATV trails, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The combination of intense river running and accessible lodging positions North Country Rivers as a cornerstone of Maine’s outdoor recreation scene, especially convenient for visitors coming from cities like Boston or Portland aiming to immerse themselves in genuine river adventure.
River conditions fluctuate with seasonal releases; confirm flow rates for desired difficulty.
Expect splashes and spray; synthetic layers dry faster than cotton for comfort.
Getting oriented with your river guide ensures safety and a smoother trip start.
Use waterproof bags or leave valuables behind to avoid loss in the rapids.
The Penobscot River was once a critical route for Maine’s logging industry and remains culturally significant to the Penobscot Nation.
North Country Rivers emphasizes low-impact practices and educates visitors on river ecosystem protection.
Closed-toe shoes with good grip protect feet and provide traction on wet surfaces.
summer specific
Synthetic clothing keeps you warm and comfortable when wet.
spring|summer|fall specific
Keeps valuables and extra layers safe from water and splashes.
Keeps you warm during cooler mornings or post-trip relaxation.
spring|fall specific