Explore the best lakes, rivers, and protected saltwater that southern Maine has to offer! With two longtime paddlers as your guides, you’ll find perfect kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard outings, whatever your skill level. From freshwater tours in the Kennebec and Androscoggin valleys and on scenic ponds nestled in the hills around Sebago Lake to saltwater adventures in the peaceful coves, marshes, and tidal rivers of the southern coast, it’s all here! Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a weekend warrior challenge, the right trip is at your fingertips.
Protected waters
- Lakes, ponds, rivers and coastal bays in locations protected from strong currents and winds
Over 50 convenient day trips
- Most trips are less than an hour’s drive from Portland
Maps, directions, at-a-glance chart
- User friendly guide to plan a great day on the water
No shuttles or portages
- Begin and end from the same place
Easily accessed launches
- All public access with parking
Useful information and descriptions about each trip
- Recommended route, launch amenities, helpful notes
In the News
Local Maine Women Ink a Book on Outdoor Paddling in Maine.
Watch the video newscast.
Chronicle: A Total Summer Forecast. The authors take WMTW paddling
Watch the video newscast – our segment is early in part 1.
“With the new book…, Mainers will be well equipped to explore the lakes, rivers, and protected saltwater of the state’s southern end.” Read the review.
–Josh Christie in The Maine Sunday Telegram
Listen to our conversation about all things kayaking, canoeing, paddling and more.
-Jennifer Rooks on Maine Calling, Maine Public Radio
“What you need to know before you get paddling”
Tips for buying gear and getting on the water with a kayak, canoe or paddleboard.
-an article by the authors in MaineToday
Positively Maine: Paddling Southern Maine
On this episode of Positively Maine, host Tory Ryden talks with the authors and about the book: “It’s an awesome blueprint that takes the guesswork out of finding the best ponds, streams, lakes and rivers…”
–podcast on WGAN
Practice Safe Paddling. The authors lead a trip with Tory Ryden.
Watch the video newscast.
“The book also includes great details, like landmarks to look for, tips for launching, route suggestions, and the sort of insider info you’d get from a friend.” Read the review.
–Shannon Bryan in Fit Maine
South Portland assistant principal puts passion for paddling in print. Read the article.
-Melanie Sochan in The Forecaster
What’s SUP? That’s stand-up paddle boarding and here’s how to do it. Read the article.
-Deirdre Fleming in The Portland Press Herald