Maine Rafting Company Announces Spring Whitewater Special for New England Ski Pass Holders to Benefit Maine Handicapped Skiing Programs

Monday, March 1, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Spring Raftinf on the Dead River, MaineAs spring turns to summer and snow turns to runoff it's time to put away your skis and boards and get out on Maine's whitewater rivers and benefit a good cause.
 
Northern Outdoors, based in The Forks, Maine is offering all New England skiers and riders a chance to directly support disabled veterans and active service personnel via spring rafting vacations. New England Ski Area season pass holders will save $15 off all Northern Outdoors May & June rafting trips with their current Season Pass. For every season pass rafter, Northern Outdoors will donate $5 to the Maine Handicapped Skiing's Veterans / No Boundaries Program.
 
Maine Handicapped Skiing's Veterans/No Boundaries, provides veterans and active duty personnel with disabilities summer and winter adaptive sports activities, free of charge.  Veterans/No Boundaries is funded by Bath Iron Works, Disabled Sports USA, veterans groups, local businesses and individuals who are passionate about supporting Maine’s service men and women.
 
Spring white water rafting typically has higher water flows thanks to winter snow melt and offers exciting early season adventure. The Ski Pass Special is valid on all three of Maine’s whitewater rivers- the Kennebec, the Penobscot, and the Dead River. Each unique river offers a vacation experience of thrilling fun and adventure for first-time rafters, families, and high adventure enthusiasts.
 
For more information on the New England Ski Resort Season Pass Holders Special call 800-765-7238 or visit www.NorthernOutdoors.com.
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An Update on Snowmobile Trail Conditions in The Forks

Thursday, February 4, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Snowmobiler on ITS 87 in The Forks, MaineHaven't seen any significant snow since the rain and subsequent freeze up last week. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are passable, but there are some tough sections. You can get through everywhere . . . just have to "bob & weave" to stay on snow and get around obstacles, on some parts.

Theres' enjoyable riding north of Berry's Store in West Forks on ITS 89 towards Jackman and ITS 86 towards Rockwood and up to Pittston Farm. There's good riding on ITS 86 from Moxie Lake heading east towards Greenville. We are recommending riders trailer 5 - 8 miles north to The Forks or Moxie Lake and ride the higher elevations where there is still decent snow cover.  (see photo above taken yesterday on ITS 87) 

•    ITS 86 from Berry's Store in West Forks, heading east toward Greenville  is poor until you get past Moxie Lake. You can get through, but there's ice and a few washouts to work around. From Moxie Lake toward Greenville is good riding and is being groomed.
 
•    Bald Mountain Trail  connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 has good riding is being groomed. There is an active logging operation on this section, for 1 mile. One snowbank has been winged down, so sleds can stay on snow.
 
•    ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham  has several poor spots. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road. One snowbank has been pulled down for a majority of this stretch, so sleds can stay on snow most of the way. There are still a couple short stretches where you're grinding on dirt. The rest of the Divide Road to Northern Outdoors is decent with plenty of snow, and is being groomed. Heading further south on ITS 87 to Pleasant Pond is fair. Continuing south on toward Bingham is poor and icy in several places, but passable.
 
•    Pleasant Pond Trail connecting ITS 87 with the Bald Mountain Trail has good snow and good riding, and is being groomed.
 
•    Kennebec River Trail  from Northern Outdoors to Berry's Store in West Forks, is ok in some places and poor in others. It is passable all the way through. The last 1 mile before getting into town is the worst part.
 
In summary, all trails in The Forks system are passable. Parts (described above) have good to very good riding and are being groomed. Other parts are in poor shape. Ride with caution at all times.  Open water bars, rocks, shelf ice and hard packed ice can be anywhere.
 
Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Well, The Forks Snowmobile Trail System really took a beating on Monday with all the wind and rain. We have been out the last 2 days trying to fix problem areas and clearing the trails of blowdowns. All 100 miles of the trail system are passable, but there are some pretty ugly sections. I've detailed them below as best as possible. You can get through everywhere, but you will have to "bob & weave" to stay on snow on some sections, and to get around washouts/waterholes. There is still decent riding on ITS 86 from Moxie Lake heading east toward Greenville, and on the Bald Mountain Trail.  There's some good riding on the West Forks Trail System from Berry's Store, heading north toward Jackman on ITS 87 and ITS 89. All other sections are marginal.

•    ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville is poor until you get to Moxie Lake. Washouts and bare spots. You can get through, but it's not pretty. From Moxie Lake to Greenville is pretty good with decent snow and we will be grooming this section on Thursday night.
 
•    Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 has good riding. There is an active logging operation on this section, for 1 mile. One snowbank has been winged down so sleds can stay on snow most of the way. This trail will be groomed on Thursday night.
 
•    ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham is poor most of the way. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles on the Divide Road that is down to dirt. The groomer went out to that section on Wednesday to pull one of the snowbanks down, so sleds can get on snow. The rest of the Divide Road to Northern Outdoors is decent and will be groomed on Thursday night. Heading further south on ITS 87 to Pleasant Pond and toward Bingham is not recommended. It is passable, but numerous bare spots and washouts.
 
•     Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berrys Store in West Forks, is ok in some spots and poor in others. It is passable all the way through. The last 1 mile before getting into town is the worst part.
 
•    Pleasant Pond Trail (club trail). Conditions are unknown at this time, as we haven't had a chance to check it out. I would guess that it's all ok (it's mostly on unplowed road), except for the 1 mile around the south end of Pleasant Pond.
 
•    Breakneck Ridge Trail to Blanchard. Conditions are unknown. This section is maintained by the 4 Winds Club out of Guilford.
 
Again, all trails in The Forks are passable, but some sections are in bad shape. Ride with caution at all times!  Open water bars, rocks, shelf ice, and hard packed ice can be anywhere. Other than parts of ITS 86 and the Bald Mountain Trail described above, recommended riding is from Berrys Store in West Forks heading north on ITS 87 and ITS 89. Still decent snow cover there, and the FAR club will be grooming these sections.
 
Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Reprt

Tuesday, January 26, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff
The 8" of snow we received last week helped the groomers fill in most of the remaining trouble spots, especially on woods trails. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are open and being groomed regularly. Generally speaking, trail sections on unplowed roads are very good and woods trails are fair. Our trail system is about 85% roads and 15% woods trails. There may still be a few hazards out there especially on the woods trails, such as wet spots and rocks poking through, so be careful.  Not sure what the weather will do to the trails . . . . it's raining right now. The following conditions are as of Monday morning.   
 
• ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville is scheduled to be groomed Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights. The 1 mile of Intown trail is roughed up and hard to maintain because of heavy traffic. Once out of town, things improve greatly. The 1 mile Power Line section near Moxie Lake is rough, with some wet spots. Brochu Road section is flat and fast!
 
• ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham will be groomed Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road section, but there is a solid hard packed base on the road. Go slow and yield to equipment. The 3 mile spur trail up to the Moxie Mountain Overlook is open and groomed . . . . outstanding views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Bigelow Range!  
 
• Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berrys Store will be groomed on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights. The last 1 mile section as you approach town rough. Nice views of the Kennebec River.
 
• Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 will be groomed on Tuesday, Thursday , Friday, Saturday nights. There is an active logging operation along this route and the road is shared for 1 mile. Go easy through there and yield to equipment. Everywhere else is flat and fast!
 
• Breakneck Ridge Trail to Blanchard is now open and groomed with good riding.
 
• Pleasant Pond Trail  (club trail) will be groomed on Thursday. There is a  1/4  mile stretch along the back side of Pleasant Pond that is rough. Other than that, it's clear sailing.  This trail and ITS 87 make a nice loop around Moxie Mountain.
 
All told, the trails are in good shape and there is very enjoyable riding to be had. Although there is plenty of snow in most places, remember that there are still a few hazards out there . . . . . . . ride with caution at all times. 
 
For day trippers, there's a FREE PARK & RIDE LOT at Northern Outdoors Resort on Route 201. Gas, trail maps, food, restrooms and trail info are available right at the Lodge. Call 888-770-SLED for details.
 
Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff

Many, many riders out enjoying the trails this past holiday weekend. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are open and being groomed regularly. Drivers report that overall conditions are good with fine riding. Generally speaking, trail sections on unplowed roads are very good and woods trails are fair, with a couple of poor spots. Our trail system is about 85% roads and 15% woods trails. Plenty of snow on the ground to groom out the road sections, but we need more snow to smooth out the woods trails.  It's snowing right now . . . . about 3" on the ground and a little more expected the next couple of days. Every little bit will help. There are still a few hazards out there especially on the woods trails, such as wet spots and rocks poking through, so be careful.
 
• ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville is scheduled to be groomed Tuesday, Friday, Saturday nights of this week. The 1 mile of Intown trail is roughed up and tough to smooth out until we get some new snow. The 1 mile Power Line section near Moxie Lake is rough, with some wet spots. Brochu Road section is flat and fast!
 
• ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham will be groomed Tuesday, Friday, Saturday nights of this week. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road section, but there is a solid hard packed base on the road. Go slow and yield to equipment. The 3 mile spur trail up to the Moxie Mountain Overlook is open and groomed . . . . outstanding views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Bigelow Range!
 
• Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berry's Store will be groomed on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday nights of this week. The last 1 mile section as you approach town is rough and needs more snow. Otherwise, it's decent riding through there with nice views of the Kennebec River.
 
• Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 will be groomed on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday nights of this week. There is an active logging operation along this route and the road is shared for 1 mile. Go easy through there and yield to equipment. Everywhere else is flat and fast!
 
• Breakneck Ridge Trail to Blanchard is now open and groomed with good riding.
 
• Pleasant Pond Trail  (club trail) will be groomed on Wednesday. There is a  1/4  mile stretch along the back side of Pleasant Pond that is rough. Other than that, it's clear sailing.
 
All told, the trails are in good shape and there is very enjoyable riding to be had. Although there is plenty of snow in most places, remember that there are still a few hazards out there . . . . . . . ride with caution at all times.
 
For day trippers, there is a FREE PARK AND RIDE LOT at Northern Outdoors Resort on Route 201. Gas, trail maps, food, restrooms and trail info are available right at the Lodge. Call 888-770-SLED for details.

Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club

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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Tuesday, January 12, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff

Many, many riders out enjoying the trails this past weekend. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are open and being groomed regularly. Drivers report that overall conditions are good with fine riding. Generally speaking, trail sections on unplowed roads are very good and woods trails are fair, with a couple of poor spots. Our trail system is about 85% roads and 15% woods trails. Plenty of snow on the ground to groom out the road sections, but we need more snow to smooth out the woods trails. There are still a few hazards out there especially on the woods trails, such as wet spots and rocks poking through, so be careful.
 
•    ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville is scheduled to be groomed Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights of this week. The 1 mile of Intown trail is roughed up and tough to smooth out until we get some new snow. The 1 mile Power Line section near Moxie Lake is rough, with some wet spots. Brochu Road section is flat and fast!
 
•    ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham will be groomed Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights of this week. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road section, but there is a solid hard packed base on the road. Go slow and yield to equipment. The 3 mile spur trail up to the Moxie Mountain Overlook is open and groomed . . . . outstanding views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Bigelow Range!
 
•    Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berry's Store will be groomed on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights of this week. The last 1 mile section as you approach town is rough and needs more snow. Otherwise, it's decent riding through there with nice views of the Kennebec River.
 
•    Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 will be groomed on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights of this week. There is an active logging operation along this route and the road is shared for 1 mile. Go easy through there and yield to equipment. Everywhere else is flat and fast!
 
•    Breakneck Ridge Trail to Blanchard is now open and groomed with good riding.
 
•    Pleasant Pond Trail  (club trail) will be groomed on Wednesday. There is a 1/2 mile stretch along the back side of Pleasant Pond that is rough. Other than that, it's clear sailing.
 
All told, the trails are in good shape and there is very enjoyable riding to be had. Although there is plenty of snow in most places, remember that there are still a few hazards out there . . . . . . . ride with caution at all times.

For day trippers, there is a FREE PARK AND RIDE LOT  at Northern Outdoors Resort on Route 201. Gas, trail maps, food, restrooms and trail info are available right at the Lodge. Call 888-770-SLED for details.

Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
 

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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Thursday, January 7, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff

The New Years Weekend storm dumped 12" - 18" of snow on our area, depending on the exact location. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are open and groomed. Groomers have been busy and report that the trails are generally in great shape with excellent riding. Since it is early season, there are still a few hazards out there such as wet spots and rocks poking through, but overall conditions are very good. Cold temperatures coming in should help to freeze over any wet areas.
 
•    ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville  will be groomed again on Friday and Saturday nights. The 1 mile Power Line section along Moxie Lake is rough, with some wet spots. Brochu Road section is flat and fast!
•    ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham  will be groomed again on Friday and Saturday nights. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road section, but there is a solid hard packed base on the road. Go slow and yield to any equipment. The 3 mile spur trail to the Moxie Mtn. Overlook is open and groomed . . . . outstanding views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Bigelow Range!
•    Kennebec River Trail  from Northern Outdoors to Berry' s Store will be groomed again on Friday and Saturday nights. Other than a couple of wet spots, there's good riding through there.
•    Bald Mountain Trail  connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 will be groomed again on Friday and Saturday nights, and has great riding. There is an active logging operation along this route and the road is shared for 1 mile. Go easy through there and yield to equipment.
•    Pleasant Pond Trail  was opened and groomed on Wednesday. There is a 1/4 mile stretch along the back side of Pleasant Pond that is rough. Other than that, it's clear sailing.
All in all, the riding season is off to a great start! Although there is plenty of snow, remember that it's early season and there are still a few hazards out there . . . . . Ride with caution at all times.
 
For day trippers, there is a FREE PARK AND RIDE LOT  at Northern Outdoors Resort on Route 201. Gas, trail maps, food, restrooms and trail info are available right at the Lodge. Call 888-770-SLED for details.

Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
 

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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Tuesday, January 5, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff
We received 12" - 18" of snow from the New Years Weekend storm, depending on the exact location. Groomers have been out and report that the trails are in great shape and the riding is fine. There are still a few wet spots, but overall conditions are very good to excellent. Cold temperatures later this week should help freeze over any wet areas.
 
• ITS 86 from Berry's Store heading east toward Greenville was groomed on Monday. The 1 mile Power Line section along Moxie Lake is still a bit rough, with some wet spots. Brochu Road section is flat and fast.
• ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham was groomed on Monday and has great riding. The 3 mile spur up Moxie Mountain to the lookout is groomed . . . . outstanding views of Sugarloaf and Bigelow Mountains!
• Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 to ITS 87 was groomed on Monday and is in very good to excellent shape. There is an active logging operation along this route and the road is shared for 1 mile . . . go easy through there.
• Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berry's Store was groomed on Tuesday and has good riding. Scenic trail along the river.
• Pleasant Pond Trail has not been groomed. Plan to have it open for the weekend.

Gas, food, restrooms and trail info are available at Northern Outdoors on Route 201. Call 888-770-SLED for details.

All in all, we are in great shape and the snowmobile season is off and running!  Although there is plenty of snow, it is early season and there are still a few obstacles out there . . . . ride with caution.
 
Jim Yearwood
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks, Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Monday, January 4, 2010 by Northern Outdoors Staff

The 2010 Maine Snowmobile season is underway. This past weekend The Forks area received around a foot of snow.  We now have plenty of snow to work with, and our groomers will get the trails packed and in great shape for riding.

On Saturday night we groomed ITS 86 east toward Greenville, ITS 87 north to Berry's Store and south toward Bingham, and the Bald Mountain Trail. We will groom the entire Forks Area Trail system, including the Kennebec River Trail, on Monday.  We will plan to open the Pleasant Pond Trail later in the week.

Gas, food, restrooms and trail info are available at Northern Outdoors on Route 201. Call 888-770-SLED for details.
 
Jim Yearwood, Trailmaster
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
 

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Northern Outdoors profiled in ATVSource.com

Friday, December 18, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff

ATVSource.com recently carried a profile of Northern Outdoors including a  brief history and background on the company and its decision earlier this year to cater to ATV's and UTV's looking for a convenient base-camp from which to explore Maine's extensive network of ATV Trails.

Northern Outdoors is long established as one of Maine's most popular one-stop Snowmobile Resorts and is now aiming to appeal to powersports enthusiasts year-round with the addition of a spring / summer / fall spur trail which connects to Maine's extensive network of over 6,000 miles of dedicated ATV trails. 

For more information on Northern Outdoors visit www.NorthernOutdoors.com or call 800-765-7238

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Maine Inn-to-Inn Snowmobile Package

Monday, December 7, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff

Snowmobiler in Kingfield, MaineNorthern Outdoors and The Herbert Grand Hotel have teamed up to offer a new Inn-to-Inn snowmobile package for the 2010 season.

 

This three night, two day package includes one night lodging at the historic Herbert Hotel, Kingfield with breakfast and two nights lodging in a cozy cabin at Northern Outdoors, in The Forks. and optional snowmobile rental for two days.

 

Riders will enjoy a variety of trails as they explore a 200+ mile loop originating in The Forks and incorporating ITS 86/89 to Eustis, ITS 115 south to Stratton, Carrabassett Valley and Kingfield, before returning to The Forks, via ITS 84 to North Anson and ITS 87 north, past Solon & Bingham. The base package can be extended to allow for addition riding at either lodging location.

 

Package prices start at $189 per person for lodging. Snowmobile rentals and equipment are available at Northern Outdoors.

 

For full details or additional information contact Northern Outdoors at  800-765-7238.

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Snowy Trails to Maine Adventures

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Maine SnowmobileSnowmobile adventures make for great Maine family vacations, and for folks who don't have their own sled, we rent them. We even have guides available to show you all the best trails and most spectacular winter, northwoods views. 

At the end of a long day on the trail, there's nothing like a great meal and a steaming hot tub.  The only thing to make it better is good friends to share the evening with.  So we're looking forward to a super snowy winter, with lots of roaring fires in the lodge and fresh beer in the bar taps to welcome all our winter buddies back for the season.  And in anticipation of a great snowmobling season, our new Northern Outdoors Maine snowmobile information is ready to download or if you'd prefer you can follow the link to request a copy in the mail. 



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Maine Kennebec River - Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway

Saturday, October 17, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Maine Kennebec River Old Canada Road National Scenic BywayCruising north out of Skowhegan on U.S. Route 201, you top a hill and a view opens up before you - mountains roll to the horizon and the sky doubles in size.  On your left, in a grassy area, is a sign announcing you are now driving on the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway.  A few hundred feet past the sign is an unmarked turn onto a gravel road that twists up to a picnic pavilion and another spectacular view.  Everything is new and this is obviously the beginnings of a larger project -  below the picnic area you can see signs of work in the woods. where walking trails are in the process of being cut.  Hmmm...a place to return to and explore some more on future trips.  Informational plaques on stands offer information about the mountains before you and the history of the area, it's clear they are the first of many you can stop and read along 201 north.

Breath in the view for a while, then continue north, into history, into wilderness and into adventure.  A National Scenic ByWay has to be more that a pretty drive - it has to be a route with history significant to the region and offer much to see and do.  The Old Canada Road is a prime example, with historical markers, spectacular scenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure from Kennebec River rafting, ATV trails and resorts, and Hut to Hut Hiking trips to wintertime Maine snowmobile vacations.  The houses and towns along the way are small and hardy, the people tough and friendly, the journey worth taking!


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Maine Family Vacation Surprise

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Benedict Arnold Historical Marker Kennebec River MaineDriving up 201 toward Northern Outdoors on a New England vacation adventure, Wyman Lake and the Kennebec River hug the right side of the road for long stretches.  There are several unmarked turnouts, and one vaguely marked 'Historic Site'.  A small brown sign points the way to a narrow gravelled pullout with room for maybe two cars.  The historic marker there is simple, a plaque mounted on a small boulder on a bluff overlooking the Kennebec.  The view of the river is more impressive than the marker, but once you take a few moments to read, surprise takes hold.

Who crossed the Kennebec River at this lovely spot, and marched up the very route you are driving on the way to your Dead River rafting trip?  Benedict Arnold - on his way to fight the British in Quebec!  What is this?  A moment not only in Maine history, but the history of our country? A surprise find in an area of Maine known more for Maine ATV trails and resorts designed for outdoor adventure.  So when you're driving up see us at Northern Outdoors - take a moment to stop at this site and feel the history!



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The Forks Fall Foliage Forecast

Wednesday, September 16, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
It was a rainy summer here in Maine, but all that rain has an upside folks planning a fall New England Vacation.  We're not at peak yet, but give us a few weeks.  We'll keep an eye on the trees and let you know what's happening.

Rangley Lake Fall Color, New England VacationBill Ostrofsky, a forest pathologist with the Maine Forest Service was asked by mainefoliage.com what we can expect for fall color this year: "Good foliage development is a prerequisite for good fall color. The plentiful summer rain allowed the foliage to develop vigorously, and most crowns now appear full, dense, and very lush. All regions appear to be on track for another spectacular season."

Now that's what we like to hear!  There's nothing like whitewater rafting New England style to the backdrop of orange and red maples, bright yellow birch, deep green balsam.  And when we're playing on land not water, the ATV trails and hiking trails just glow gold when we travel them.  

We expect the first weekend of October to be peak color here in The Forks and that heppens to coincide with Octoberfest and the season's final dam release on The Dead River!  A perfect time for a long weekend Maine family vacation!
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Why Rafting is the Real Deal Water Park

Wednesday, July 8, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
Best waterpark in the world Mom and Dad! Thanks - the kids.It's impressive how many people have NEVER been rafting. It's even more impressive how many people come rafting for the first time and CAN'T BELIEVE how much fun they had and how easy it was. 

Hah! Therein lies the magic of whitewater rafting. Anywhere. In the world. But I'll talk about whitewater rafting in New England, and specifically in our beloved state of Maine.

There are many many awesome rivers in Maine to paddle, float, swim, and fish in. For actual white water rafting, there are three rivers that are, quite simply, the best:  the Kennebec, the Penobscot, and the Dead River. (Not quite an apt name cause the river it's way alive with exceptional whitewater action, to be sure!)

All three rivers are dam-controlled rivers, that means that the water levels are consistent all summer long. With lots of rain (like we had all spring!) the water gets higher, obviously. For experienced rafters and adrenaline junkies, this is WAY FUN. For everyone else, my years of experience as guide, mom, and friend says its better to do your first rafting trip at regular levels. Work up to bigger and bigger water if you love the thrill. You don't have to be on big water tho to get the most out of river rafting. Fun, playful rapids, warm sunshine, great riverside grilled lunches, being outdoors all day with friends and family in FRESH AIR, is absoltuely fantastic. Watch a video of one family's experience on the Kennebec.

Pure, big, fun! Kennebec River rafting

Rafting is mother nature's rollercoaster, with nice pauses in between rapids for catching your breath and looking at the incredible scenery in Maine's wilderness as you float by. It's bouncy, absolutely, with great big waves that will drench you and leave you laughing so hard you might cry. Sit in the front if you want to be soaked all day. Sit in the back on the guide's side if you want to stay dryest (they tend to keep themselves the driest!). If your kids are younger, put them in the middle seats (on either side of the boat), and sit right behind them so you can grab them to make yourself feel protective in the rapids. They won't likely need it but it'll make you feel nicely useful!

With modern equipment and gear, you really don't have to be a strong swimmer to go rafting. Heck, you don't even have to know how to swim because the Type V PFDs (lifejackets) are so buoyant and well-designed, if you decide to go for a swim, planned or unplanned. (The majority of people rafting never fall out, but it's mother nature so you have to be prepared. If you're deathly afraid of water tho, why go? Send your friends and keep a seat at the bar for them at the lodge.)

 For value-packed July family and friends specials at Northern Outdoors, check out our specials page. I'll talk about the personality of each of these rivers in depth in my next blogs. The Kennebec is first up, stay tuned!





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The Forks Maine - End of Season Trail Report

Monday, March 30, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
That's it for this year!  Thanks to all who rode in The Forks this winter. We hope to see you you on Maine's snowmobile trails again next season.

 
Jim Yearwood, Trailmaster
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks Maine - Snowmobile Trail Report

Friday, March 27, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff

We have halted grooming operations on The Forks Snowmobile Trail System. There is some riding out of the Lodge, if you want to just get out and explore around on and off trail. You can ride up the hill behind the Lodge. There is some bare ground on a couple of the pitches going out, where you will grind for 10 feet or so. Once on the road system at the top of the valley, the cover is better. Do not attempt to ride the Kennebec River Trail . . . lots of bare ground. Also don't recommend trying to ride to Berry's Store on ITS 86/87, as the 1 mile of intown trails are pretty scratchy. Not impossible, but not pleasant. The 1 mile section of ITS 86 on the plowed road at Moxie Lake, is down to the ground. Most other trail sections are generally ok and rideable.
 
For best riding, we recommend trailering to Berry's Store in West Forks, and riding north from there. From Berry's, ride ITS 87 north. Do not attempt to ride ITS 86 west along the Dead River . . . . very boney for at least 2 miles. West Forks, Bulldog and Jackman clubs all report plenty of snow in most areas, and are still grooming.

Jim Yearwood, Trailmaster
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club

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The Forks maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Wednesday, March 25, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff
We still have about 20" of snow on the ground, but the warm daytime temperatures and strong sun are taking their toll on the trails. We have halted grooming operations in The Forks, but there is still enjoyable trail and off trail riding in the area. All 70 miles of The Forks Snowmobile Trail System are rideable as noted below. Short plowed road sections (intown, Boise Road, Moxie Lake) are bare, but you can usually get up on the shoulders. Springtime conditions so RIDE WITH CAUTION.
 
• ITS 86 FROM BERRY'S STORE IN WEST FORKS, HEADING EAST TOWARD GREENVILLE.  Intown trail is passable, but is getting a number of bare spots. You can stay on snow most of the time with some "bobbing and weaving". Once out of town things improve. Couple bare spots in the clearcuts near Mosquito Mountain. Power Line near Moxie Lake is still holding up well, but the tops of some rocks and stumps are starting to poke through. Shirley Road and Brochu Road sections have good snow.
• BALD MOUNTAIN TRAIL.  Still plenty of snow on and off trail.
• BREAKNECK RIDGE TRAIL.  Closed due to logging.
• ITS 87 HEADING SOUTH TOWARD BINGHAM.  Good snow most of the way. A few bare corners here and there. Still plenty of snow around Moxie Mountain.
• PLEASANT POND TRAIL. Decent riding all the way through from ITS 87 to the Bald Mountain Trail.
• KENNEBEC RIVER TRAIL.  Not recommended for riding. It is passable, but there's several bare spots on some of the hills.
Still enjoyable spring riding in the area, but it's going fast! Best off trail riding is off the Shirley and Brochu Roads (ITS 86), and around Moxie Bald Mountain (Bald Mountain Trail), Pleasant Pond Mountain (Pleasant Pond Trail), and Moxie Mountain (ITS 87). 
 
There is still good trail riding from Berry's Store in West Forks, heading north. The Forks Area Recreation Club (FARC) plans to continue grooming their trails through the weekend. ITS 86 to Grand Falls, ITS 89 over Coburn Mountain to Jackman, ITS 87 toward Rockwood, and the Alpine Trails will all be groomed and have plenty of good trail riding. Jackman is also continuing to groom and reports good trail riding.
 
Jim Yearwood, Trailmaster
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
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The Forks Maine - Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report

Friday, March 20, 2009 by Northern Outdoors Staff

We still have about 2 feet of snow on the ground, but the warm daytime temperatures and strong sun are taking their toll on the trails. Still decent trail riding, and fantastic off trail riding. With the daily springtime thaw and freeze cycle, hazards are popping up, such as some bare inside corners, rocks poking through the base, and ice. RIDE WITH CAUTION AT ALL TIMES. Short plowed road sections (intown, Boise Road, Moxie Lake) are bare, but rideable on the shoulders. All 70 miles of The Forks Area Snowmobile Trail System are passable and will definitely be groomed on Friday night. Saturday night grooming is tentative, depending on the weather and the condition of the trails.
• ITS 86 FROM BERRY'S STORE IN WEST FORKS, HEADING EAST TOWARD GREENVILLE.  Intown trails are "snurt", but it is all easily passable. Once out of town just a bit, things improve. However, there is starting to be sections with ice down the middle of the trail. Some minor bare spots in the clearcuts around Mosquito Mountain. Short Power Line section near Moxie Lake is still passable, but the tops of some rocks are poking through. Shirley Road and Brochu Road sections still have good snow.
• BALD MOUNTAIN TRAIL.  Good snow cover. A couple corners on the Crooked Road section getting bare, but pretty good everywhere else.
• BREAKNECK RIDGE TRAIL.  Closed due to logging.
• ITS 87 HEADING SOUTH TOWARD BINGHAM.  Good snow most of the way. A few bare patches here and there. Plenty of snow around Moxie Mountain.
• PLEASANT POND TRAIL.  Decent riding all the way through from ITS 87 to the Bald Mountain Trail. This trail and ITS 87 make a great mountain loop, with outstanding scenery of Moxie Mountain, Pleasant Pond Mountain, and Bald Mountain.
• KENNEBEC RIVER TRAIL. Rideable all the way through from Northern Outdoors to Berry's Store in West Forks. A few bare spots and icy hills.

This may be the last weekend for decent trail riding, as there doesn't appear to be any snow in the forecast. Great off trail riding should continue for a couple more weeks. Best off trail riding is off the Shirley and Brochu Roads (ITS 86), and around Bald Mountain (Bald Mountain Trail), Pleasant Pond Mountain (Pleasant Pond Trail), and Moxie Mountain (ITS 87).

For day trippers, there is a FREE PARK AND RIDE LOT  at Northern Outdoors Resort on Route 201. Gas, trail maps, food and trail info are available right at the Lodge. Call 888-770-SLED for details.

Jim Yearwood, Trailmaster
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club

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