Canoe trips on the St. John River with Smoking Rivers are organized each May and are best suited for those with a familiarity of a canoe and some backcountry experience. A positive and adventurous attitude is helpful as weather in the North Maine Woods in May can vary greatly; one day, temperatures can be in the 80s and sun-filled, while the next may be cloud covered with the threat of rain or even snow. Due to its mileage and whitewater, 8-days are required to navigate the entirety of the St. John River, from Baker Lake to Dickey, Maine, while allowing time to visit its many historical locations and enjoy a leisurely pace.
Located in one of the most remote stretches of Maine, the St. John River is one of only two free flowing rivers in the State of Maine. Therefore, the river can be paddled for only around three weeks in May, soon after the mighty Maine winter has released its icy grip on the North Maine Woods. This limited window makes you feel as if your adventure down the St. John river is heralding the arrival of spring.
Paddlers on the St. John River canoe trip with Smoking Rivers are treated to the opportunity to learn about the vast history of the region the river supports. Historical highlights include attractions such as Nine-Mile Bridge with its abandoned and forgotten steam shovel. Also landmarks such as the beautiful Seven Islands ghost town, that at its peak supported and was home to hundreds of lumberjacks. All of our trips stop at Seven Islands to take the opportunity to visit this historical area and view the long forgotten cellar holes, abandoned farming equipment, and lumbering devices that have been left to time, deep in the North Maine Woods.
St. John River Canoe Trips
Trips Available: Mid-May to Late-May
Trip Length: 8 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Age Minimum: 10
Deposit:
30% Deposit required at time of reservation. Remainder due no later than (21) days prior to trip departure (non-refundable).
Cancellations & Refunds:
0-59 days prior to trip- deposit non-refundable
60-89 days prior to trip- 35% deposit refundable
90 days or more prior to trip- 75% refundable
Group and Youth rates available. Rates are based off a 4 person trip subject to change depending on group size and duration.