Maine’s Allagash River Named One of the Nation’s Top Paddling Destinations

There are few places I'd rather be than on the water, especially when the air temperatures start to rise in the spring.

Fortunately, Maine is an oasis for folks like me. It's a land of wonderful lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, and this thing called the Atlantic Ocean.

It's simply a perfect location to enjoy whatever water activity you could imagine, like fishing, boating, floating, swimming, and perhaps Maine's most popular activity, paddling.

So, it should come to no surprise that one of Maine’s most iconic rivers is earning national acclaim for its ideal conditions for paddling.

Where are America's Best Rivers to Paddle?

The well-known outdoor website Unify Cosmos recently spotlighted some of the best rivers for paddling in the United States. After considering numerous options, they compiled a list of the top 13 rivers, many of which are household names.

With so many exceptional rivers across the country, selecting just 13 must have been a challenging task. Nevertheless, Unify Cosmos ultimately chose this impressive list—and a Northern Maine icon made the cut. Say hello to one of America’s most legendary paddling destinations: the Allagash River.

Maine's Allagash River is One of America's Best Locations for Canoeing and Kayaking

Stretching from the Saint John River to the Maine North Woods, the Allagash River is one of the most scenic waterways in the state. Spanning an impressive 65 miles, this river boasts pristine, untouched natural beauty and is known for its challenging, world-class rapids.

The Allagash is a dream destination for weekend adventurers. With its thrilling whitewater sections, excellent canoeing, and top-notch fishing opportunities, it offers something for everyone. And, of course, its breathtaking beauty is no surprise to those familiar with the stunning landscapes of Northern Maine. No wonder it's looked at as a first class location for paddling.

Here’s a little from Unify Cosmos on why it selected the Allagash River for its prestigious list.

This remote river is perfect for multi-day canoe trips, famous for its serene beauty, abundant wildlife, and opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Its untouched landscapes and historical logging routes provide a unique backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.

Who doesn't love a good multi-day canoe trip through some of the most beautiful untouched wilderness there is?

READ MORE: Maine’s First Official Climb of Katahdin: A Look Back in Time

It's worth noting that the Allagash is the only river in New England to make this prestigious list. The remaining rivers are mostly located in the mid-Atlantic and western regions. You can explore all 13 rivers here.

Congratulations to the Allagash on this well-deserved recognition! For many of you, especially those who’ve had the privilege of experiencing this legendary river firsthand, it’s no surprise. There’s likely no better example of something that encapsulates the spirit of a Mainer than this mighty river.