The Kennebec Explorer 2015 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 11

Canoeing, Kayaking and Boating
They’re just good for the soul.
Imagine a day spent gliding across a pristine lake, exploring
a meandering stream or paddling down a gently flowing river.
Taking in the scenic landscape from the water is guaranteed
to be one of the most relaxing parts of any vacation.
Paddlers and boaters alike are attracted to our region for
many reasons. From Gardiner to The Forks, our public
boat launches get you on the Kennebec River quickly.
Or they come to paddle the famed Moose River Bow Trip.
The Bow is a 2- to 5-day wilderness paddle that begins
on Attean Lake, hooks to the Moose River and then goes
back around to Attean Lake — with only one portage.
From the top to the bottom of our region, the lakes and
rivers are plentiful. Beginning at the lower end, there are
larger lakes like Cobbosseecontee, Maranacook and
Echo, lakes that offer wide spans of shoreline to tour as
well as myriad opportunities for wildlife watching.
China Lake, in Vassalboro and China, is riddled with small
islands that are fun to explore. The Belgrade Lakes area boasts
Long Pond, Great Pond and Messalonskee Lake. Each of these
lakes provides areas to experience the pure joy of the great
outdoors via canoe, kayak or boat.
The central and northern parts of our region offer even more
bodies of water to enjoy. Around Skowhegan and Madison you’ll
find Lake George and Wesserunsett Lake, each with magnificent
areas to discover.
If true wilderness paddling and boating are what interest you,
try out Moxie Pond and Pleasant Pond in the Caratunk area;
each offers a peaceful, pristine setting for adventure. Larger lakes
like Wyman, Indian Pond and Brassua have vast expanses
of water on which you can play and fish.
Bring your boat, rent one or hire a local guide to experience
an unforgettable lakes and rivers paddling vacation.
Learn more at KennebecValley.org
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