From 2023-2025, NFCT worked with Teens to Trails to create a series of itineraries for the Maine sections of the canoe trail. The detailed itinerary linked to below is designed to support youth groups, but is great information for all paddlers. Thank you Teens to Trails!
The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a magical place where you can immerse yourself in remote and historic landscape surrounded by the forested North Maine Woods and the wildlife that calls it home. This 50-plus mile section of the NFCT takes paddlers on a classic Maine canoe river trip through the northern half of this historic route.
Starting at the northern end of Umsaskis Lake and traveling to Allagash Village, the waterway narrows down to a series of long thin lakes connected by the Allagash River. While mostly flatwater and quickwater, this section has a couple of class II rapids, which can be portaged, and Allagash Falls, a mandatory portage.
Water levels are more dependable in late spring or early summer, but a good rain can enable enjoyable flows at any time during the summer. It can be challenging to canoe past Michaud Farm when water levels are low. Take out at Michaud Farm if planning on doing this trip later in the summer.
Click here to read (and download) a detailed Allagash River trip itinerary
