Creek Paddling ~ Moosehead Region, Maine

Steep Creek Paddling the Moosehead Lake Region

During times of adequate runoff, expert boaters may choose between any of a dozen smaller, steeper runs ranging in difficulty from the Class III-IV rapids of Canada Falls to the Class V+ falls of Gulf Hagas Gorge or the East Branch of the Piscataquis. The put-ins for several of these "steep creeks" are only a short drive from Greenville.

All of these streams vary continually in flow and difficulty and should only be considered by experienced decked boaters willing to scout their routes.

Wilson Stream: Wilson Pond outlet to the Elliotsville Bridge, Class II to IV+.

West Branch Pleasant River: Gulf Hagas Gorge, Class V to V+.

South Branch Penobscot: Canada Falls section, Class III to IV.

East Branch Piscataquis: Shirley to Blanchard, Class V to V+ (and much flatwater).

West Branch Piscataquis: From below Shirley Bog to Blanchard, Class III with a short Class IV gorge. Longer and more continuous than the East Branch.

Moxie Stream: Moxie Pond to just above Moxie Falls, Class IV to V, with a must-make takeout above an 80-foot waterfall.

Cold Stream: Milligan Farm Road to the Kennebec River, Class IV,V.

Pleasant Pond Stream: Three miles with a drop of 80-100 ft per mile, Class II,III continuous boulder bed.

Nesowadnehunk Stream: Daicy Pond to the Penobscot River, Class IV to VI. Plan on a two hour shuttle into Baxter State Park.