Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE:
Paddlers are almost sure
to see at least one moose. While some paddlers may
shun the slow flat water and the tight oxbow turns, it
is exactly that terrain that gives paddlers a chance to
get a chance to view these otherwise skittish critters.
The
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands
puts out an
excellent map of the Bow Trip, including details on
avoiding Holeb Falls. Contact them at
287-3821.
North Woods Ways, A Unique Outfitter
Canoe trips are offered with renowned authors
and guides Garrett and Alexandra Conover. They
focus on traditional methods and materials. These
folks have written books on everything from winter
travel to traditional canoe techniques. Trips: West
Branch Penobscot, Allagash, and St. John. RR 2,
Box 159A, Guilford 04443.
997-3723.
West Branch Penobscot River
. The ghost of Henry David Thoreau,
who first traveled these waters in the late 1800s, still hides in the mist
that rises each dawn from the waters of the West Branch of the
Penobscot. While the lower reaches, below Ripogenus Dam, are popular
with whitewater rafters, the upper section from Seboomook Dam to
Chesuncook Lake is home to canoeists and fly fishermen. Most trips be-
gin at the campsite at Roll Dam, the name of a ledge running nearly
across the river. There is also a put-in at Northeast Carry, the level route
once used to ferry people and gear across the two miles of land between
Moosehead Lake, which is part of the Kennebec River's watershed, and
the Penobscot. The river turns north where it meets Lobster Stream. An
alternate put-in is at the Lobster Landing with a short paddle to the West
Branch.
Paddlers heading north now are in attractive, wild country with camp-
sites located on both shores and on islands in mid-stream. Moose sight-
ings are common. This is a broad, fast river with only a few rapids but
good current. The river broadens out and the wind picks up where it en-
ters the lake.
There is an especially nice campsite at the Boom House site at the tip of
Chesuncook Peninsula. A once-thriving village here has quietly faded.
Camps and cabins remain. The only access is by boat, float plane or a long
walk on foot.
