Skowhegan Outdoors

Full-Day Beginner Whitewater Kayak Clinic | July 17, 2026
2026-07-17 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
Crusher Pool, Lower Dead River, Lower Kennebec River
A full-day introduction to whitewater kayaking fundamentals including paddle strokes, river features, eddy turns, ferrying, and safety concepts in a controlled river environment
Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Cost: $100 (Youth under 18 are free!)

Includes:

Professional instruction
Kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD
Transportation & gear transport
Lunch

What to Expect

This introductory whitewater kayaking program covers the fundamentals needed to begin paddling moving water safely. Instruction includes paddle strokes, river features, eddy turns, ferrying, and basic river safety concepts. Participants practice skills in a controlled river environment with close instructor support.
No prior whitewater experience is required.Full itinerary will be sent 1 week in advance of this program
What to Bring (Additional)

Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Towel and dry clothes
Water shoes or strappy sandals

Swimsuit or shorts

Cancellation Policy

More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund
3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors program
Less than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund

Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Intermediate Whitewater Kayaking Clinic | July 18 - July 19, 20-26
2026-07-18 08:00 - 2026-07-19 17:00
REGISTER HERE!

The Forks, Maine / Crusher Pool / Dead River
A two-day instructional whitewater kayaking clinic designed to build confidence, control, and comfort on moving water. This progressive weekend introduces core skills on day one and applies them in a supportive downriver environment on day two.
Program Type: 2-Day/Overnight Experience
Cost: $200

Includes:

Professional whitewater instruction and guiding
Kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD
Transportation from Basecamp & gear transport
Lunch/dinner on Day 1 – Breakfast/lunch on Day 2
Lodging

What to Expect

This clinic is structured as a progressive learning weekend for paddlers who are new to whitewater or ready to solidify their fundamentals on moving water. Some time in a kayak should be under your belt before signing up for this clinic, but a combat roll is not required.
Day 1 focuses on core whitewater skills in a controlled setting at Crusher Pool in The Forks, ME. Instruction emphasizes paddle strokes, balance, edging, wet exits, and river safety concepts before transitioning to the lower section of the Dead River during a 2400 cfs release / confluence with the Kennebec River. At this flow, the river provides forgiving Class 1 features that are ideal for learning ferry angles, eddy turns, and understanding how boats interact with current—without overwhelming technical difficulty. Instructors provide close, hands-on coaching throughout the day.
After paddling, the group settles in at West Forks Family Campground. The evening is intentionally relaxed, allowing time to rest, review the day, ask questions, and prepare for the next stage of learning.
Day 2 takes place on the Dead River at 1800 cfs, offering a slightly lower flow that supports longer downriver travel. Instruction shifts toward reading current, choosing lines, and paddling as a supported group in a moving-water environment. Participants will practice identifying river features, anticipating current, and maintaining spacing and communication while traveling downstream. Guides provide support throughout the run, helping participants apply skills learned on day one in a real-world river context.
This clinic is ideal for paddlers looking to move beyond flatwater basics and build a solid foundation for future whitewater progression.
What to Bring (Additional)
Personal camping gear and toiletries (camping gear available at request)

Changes of clothes/Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Towel and dry clothes
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Swimsuit or shorts
Cancellation Policy

More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund
3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors program
Less than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund

Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Pedal-to-Paddle Guided Overnight - Katahdin Region | August 1 - 2, 2026
2026-08-01 08:00 - 2026-08-02 17:00
REGISTER HERE!

Hammond Ridge Trails, Horserace Campground, West Branch of the Penobscot River
A two-day, multi-sport adventure that pairs flowy mountain bike trail riding with iconic Maine flat-to-moving water paddling. This weekend blends exploration, skill application, and campfire time in one of Maine’s most storied outdoor landscapes.
Program Type: 2-Day/Overnight Experience
Cost: $200 (Youth under 18 are free!)

Includes

Professional instruction and guiding (mountain biking & paddling)
All required paddling and biking equipment
Transportation & gear transport
Lunch/Dinner on Day 1, Breakfast/Lunch on Day 2, Snacks
Group campsite logistics and coordination

What to Expect

This Pedal-to-Paddle weekend begins with travel from Basecamp to the Hammond Ridge trail system, where guides lead a dynamic mountain bike ride through a mix of flowing singletrack and technical features. Guides will adjust pace and route choice to match group ability, offering coaching and line selection where helpful while keeping the ride engaging and fun.
After riding, the group relocates to the West Branch of the Penobscot River for the night. Guides handle logistics, allowing participants to settle into camp, enjoy dinner snacks, and unwind along the river corridor.
Sunday shifts to a guided paddle on the West Branch, featuring mostly Class I–II water with wide channels, gentle current, and iconic views. Instruction focuses on boat control, reading water, and moving efficiently as a group. Breaks are built in throughout the day for lunch, skill refinement, and time to enjoy the river before returning to Basecamp in the afternoon.
This weekend prioritizes flow, adaptability, and shared experience—participants should expect full but manageable days, supportive instruction, and a strong sense of place.
What to Bring (Additional)
Personal camping gear and toiletries (camping gear available at request)
Changes of clothes/Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Towel and dry clothes

Small dry bag/day bag
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Swimsuit or shorts

Cancellation Policy

More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund
3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors program
Less than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund

Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

2-Day Women's Whitewater Kayaking Clinic | August 15 - 16, 2026
2026-08-15 08:00 - 2026-08-16 17:00
REGISTER HERE!

A structured two-day progression from flatwater fundamentals to moving-water application, designed for first-time paddlers or those rebuilding skills. Program will take place on the West Branch of the Penobscot River.

Program Type: 2-Day/Overnight Experience
Cost: $200

Includes:

Professional instruction
Kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD
Transportation & gear transport
Lunch/Dinner on Day 1 – Breakfast/Lunch on Day 2, Snacks
Lodging
River logistics

What to Expect

An immersive two-day introduction designed to build skills progressively. Day one is spent on flatwater and Class I moving water focusing on fundamentals and controlled practice, while day two applies those skills in more dynamic settings. Instruction is hands-on, supportive, and paced to the group.
This programs is ideal for participants looking for meaningful learning, confidence, and community.
No prior whitewater experience is required, but participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim. Full itinerary will be sent 1 week in advance of this program.
What to Bring (Additional)
Personal camping gear and toiletries (camping gear available at request)
Changes of clothes/Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Towel and dry clothes
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Swimsuit or shorts

Cancellation Policy

More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund
3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors program
Less than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund

Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.
