Whitewater Kayak Pool Sessions - Winter/Spring 2026
2026-02-22 13:00 - 2026-04-30 15:00 (America/New_York) | ME
FIND MORE INFO AND REGISTER HERE: https://give.mainstreetskowhegan.org/campaigns/42627-whitewater-kayaking-pool-sessions
Whitewater Kayaking Pool Sessions are back for Winter/Spring 2026!
AYCC, Waterville – Sundays 2/22, 3/8, 3/22, 4/12, **4/26 MOVED TO 4/19**, 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Waldo County YMCA, Belfast – Sundays 3/15, 3/29, 4/19, 5:00–7:00 p.m.
University of Maine at Farmington – Saturdays 3/7, 3/21, 4/11, 9:00am-11:am
Cost:
$10 for UMaine Students
$15 per session
Format:
First hour – focused instruction as requested (wet exits, rolls, bracing, boat control, etc.)
Second hour – open pool practice
Safety & gear requirements:
Helmets are required any time you are in a boat in the pool
PFDs strongly recommended; spray skirts encouraged if you’re working on rolls
Boats must be completely clean before entering (no sand, mud, leaves, or “river funk”)
Borrowing gear:
A limited number of boats and gear are available by request during registration
If you borrow gear, you’ll be asked to stay a few extra minutes to help dump, dry, and load boats and equipment after the session
Participants should be comfortable in deep water, able to swim with a PFD, and prepared to get fully submerged. Youth participants will need a parent/guardian to complete required waivers and follow all YMCA/AYCC facility policies.

Morning Cross-Country Ski @ Lakewood Golf Course
2026-02-24 09:00 - 10:00 | Lakewood Golf Course, 803 Lakewood Road, Madison, ME, 04950, United States
** Weather dependent! Please check in with us via phone, email, or social media if you are concerned about conditions**
Start your morning with a free, relaxed, community cross-country ski session at Lakewood Golf Course. These outings are open to all levels and focus on enjoying winter movement, fresh air, and time on skis. We will bring skis and boots as requested, first come first serve.
Register Here: https://give.mainstreetskowhegan.org/campaigns/43043-morning-cross-country-ski-lakewood-golf-course/join

Fly-Tyin' Tuesdays | March 10, 2026
2026-03-10 16:00 - 17:30 | ME
Learn the basics of fly tying in this relaxed, social workshop. Participants will be guided through materials, tools, and simple patterns. All materials included.
March 10, 24 & April 7, 21 are at the Skowhegan Free Public Library
March 17 is at the Bingham Union Library

Please register in advance to attend these programs: https://www.giveffect.com/campaigns/44072-fly-tyin-tuesday-march-april-2026/join

Elevate Cross-Country Ski Clinic with Maine Huts and Trails | March 14, 2026
2026-03-14 09:00 - 16:00 | ME
Please register to participate in this program: https://www.giveffect.com/campaigns/44073-elevate-cross-country-ski-clinic-with-maine-huts-and-trails-march-14-2026/join

New to cross-country skiing or looking to build confidence on skis? This half-day introductory clinic, led by experienced instructors, is designed for beginners and first-time skiers.
Participants will learn foundational cross-country skiing skills, including basic movement, stopping, turning, and climbing techniques, along with an overview of equipment setup and trail etiquette. After instruction, the group will ski from the trailhead into Flagstaff Hut, experiencing one of Maine’s premier Nordic destinations.
Transportation, instruction, and lunch are included in the program cost. All participants will meet at the Basecamp Gear Library before departure.
Program Details
Cost: $50 adults | Free for youth
Skill level: Beginner / first-time skiers welcome
Includes: Instruction, transportation, lunch
Meeting location: Basecamp Gear Library
Destination: Flagstaff Hut (ski-in)
This program is a great introduction to cross-country skiing in a supportive, instructional setting while enjoying a scenic winter adventure.
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.

Fly-Tyin' Tuesdays | March 17, 2026
2026-03-17 16:00 - 17:30 | ME

Spring Open House
2026-03-23 17:00 - 19:00 | ME
Join us at Joe’s Flat Iron Cafe and Basecamp Gear Library for an Open House to meet the team, talk gear, and learn more about Main Street Skowhegan, Skowhegan Outdoors, Skowhegan Center for Entrepreneurship, and the Skowhegan River Park. Joe’s will be serving his weekly community dinner and refreshments will be available.
No registration required. We’ll see you then!

Fly-Tyin' Tuesdays | March 24, 2026
2026-03-24 16:00 - 17:30 | ME

Fly-Tyin' Tuesdays | April 7, 2026
2026-04-07 16:00 - 17:30 | ME

Fly-Tyin' Tuesdays | April 21, 2026
2026-04-21 16:00 - 17:30 | ME

Full-Day Beginner Whitewater Kayaking Clinic | May 23, 2026
2026-05-23 08:00 - 17:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 | 8:00am – 5:00pm
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.
REGISTER HERE!
Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Cost: $100 (under 18 are free!)
Includes:

Professional instruction
Whitewater kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD
Transportation from Skowhegan & 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.
We will begin the morning at Crusher Pool, working on fundamentals. After lunch, we’ll transition to the Dead River and confluence with the Kennebec River for some down-river paddling skills.
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.

Half-Day Mountain Bike Essentials | May 29, 2026
2026-05-29 09:00 - 15:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
Friday, May 29, 2026 – 9:00am – 3:00pmCarrabassett Valley Trails

This skills clinic emphasizes confidence-building and foundational mountain bike techniques including body position, braking, cornering, and trail awareness.
REGISTER HERE!

Program Type: Half-Day Guided Experience

Cost: $65
Includes

Professional instruction & coaching
Mountain bike and helmet, as needeed
Transportation & gear transport
Snacks & optional lunch

What to Expect
Mountain bike programs focus on skill development, trail awareness, and confidence on varied terrain. Skills may include body positioning, braking, cornering, climbing and descending techniques, followed by guided trail riding to apply those skills in real conditions.
Group pacing is adjusted to participant ability, and instructors emphasize progression, safety, and trail etiquette. We will meet at Basecamp Gear Library and travel to Carrabassett Valley together.
Full itinerary will be sent 1 week in advance of this program.
What to Bring (Additional)

Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Bike gloves (recommended)

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

Half-Day Whitewater Kayaking Essentials | May 31, 2026
2026-05-31 11:00 - 17:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
REGISTER HERE!

A half-day introduction to whitewater kayaking fundamentals including paddle strokes, eddy turns, ferrying, rolling, and safety concepts in a controlled river environment. This program will take place on the Kennebec River between Cleaver Boat Launch and Skowhegan Gorge.

Program Type: Half-Day
Cost: $65

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

What to Expect

This guided experience is designed to be instructional, supportive, and accessible while still offering meaningful skill progression and time outdoors. This program will begin at Basecamp Gear Library and move to Cleaver Boat Launch, with a safety briefing and equipment overview, followed by hands-on instruction tailored to the group’s experience level. Instructors focus on foundational skills, confidence-building, and real-time coaching throughout the experience.
After flat water skill building, we will move upstream and run the Class I-II section of whitewater known as the Skowhegan Gorge.
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)
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.

2-Day Beginner/Intermediate Whitewater Kayaking Clinic | June 6-7, 2026
2026-06-06 - 2026-06-07 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
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 occur on the West Branch of the Penobscot River.

Program Type: 2-Day/Overnight Experience
Cost: $200 (Under 18 are free!)

Includes:

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

What to Expect

An immersive two-day introduction designed to build skills progressively. Day one focuses on fundamentals and controlled practice at Horserace Campground and Big Eddy Rapids, while day two applies those skills in more dynamic, Class II+ settings. Instruction is hands-on, supportive, and paced to the group.
This programs is ideal for participants looking for meaningful learning, confidence, and community.
Some time in a whitewater boat is expected. Participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim, but a combat roll is not required. 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.

Full-Day Introduction to Whitewater Paddling - Multi-Craft | July 5th, 2026
2026-07-05 07:00 - 19:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
A full-day introduction to whitewater paddling that explores moving water across a variety of craft in a supportive, low-pressure environment. This experience is designed for beginners looking to build confidence and understand river dynamics at a slow, learning-friendly flow. No experience needed but comfort in and around water is required.

REGISTER HERE!

Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Loca
Cost: $130

Includes:

Instruction & guiding
Transportation & gear transport
Lunch
Whitewater kayaks, inflatable kayaks, packrafts, paddle, helmet, pdfs
Group safety and rescue equipment

What to Expect

This full-day program introduces participants to the fundamentals of whitewater paddling using multiple types of boats, allowing each person to experience how different crafts interact with current.
The day begins with a safety briefing and an overview of river features at the 1300 cfs release, a slower flow on the Dead River that provides wide channels, gentle current, and forgiving features—ideal for learning. Participants will rotate through crafts such as whitewater kayaks, inflatable kayaks (duckies), and packrafts, gaining perspective on balance, control, and movement across different hull styles.
Instruction focuses on paddle strokes, boat control, basic ferrying, eddy awareness, and reading water at an introductory level. Guides provide hands-on coaching and support throughout the day, with breaks for rest, discussion, and lunch.
This program emphasizes curiosity, comfort, and foundational understanding, making it an excellent entry point for those considering future whitewater clinics or weekend courses.
The full itinerary will be provided 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.

2-Day Women's Whitewater Kayaking Clinic | August 15 - 16, 2026
2026-08-15 08:00 - 2026-08-16 17:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
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.
