Saco River (ME)
The Saco river in Maine is a popular destination among young college kids from the Boston area. In peak summer the entire river most closely resembles a massive booze cruise. The river is not difficult, basically all flat water except for one tiny rapid near the end. This is the river for a relaxing, swimming and swinging from ropes on trees into water. The river flows slowly and the only obstacles are other canoers and fallen trees / logs.
There are multiple Get-Off points so you can play your journey from 1-3 days. If you go during peak summer, it is likley there will be many people. Dont expect isolation when you pitch your tent; likley almsot every bank of the river will have some campers.
The ease of the river allows anyone to come, even those with no prior skills. The river is open all summer and is pretty much a good choice for a trip on any hot day. This is the river where you will find people with keggs, grills, and boom boxes on their boats. Parking for the cars is around 5 dollars a car per day. Not too expensive.
Saco river Links:
Sacobound - info and rental.
Saco river map, directions and info.
Saco river on wikipedia.
Great info about the river at Saco river council.
Additional map.
Saco river history.
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Almost every bank of the Saco river looks like this.
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People are everywhere.
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Toward the end of the summer the river barely flows.
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This one of the Ponds which is just off the main river.
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To get to the pond you have to walk down a small forest trail.
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Ropeswings and Tree jumping are common.
Start Location: You will be charged a small fee for parking. Canoe rental is available at the spot.
End location - The Shortest Bit If you have limited time, or are just afraid of the rather still waters of saco river.. you may choose thise as an end point.
End Location: You will also be charged here to leave your car...