Dead River High Whitewater Rafting

Dead River High Water Rafting Trip Information

Dead River adventures begin with anticipation. You can feel the energy on release days. Guests start the morning with a hearty breakfast in our base lodge (included with rafting and lodging packages) before gearing up and receiving a detailed safety briefing from the trip leader.

The Dead River features eight high-volume dam releases each season, creating 16 miles of powerful, continuous whitewater. The river drops steadily, delivering long wave trains, sudden drops, and relentless action through famous Class III–V rapids like Humpty Dumpty, Elephant Rock, and Spruce Ledges.

The trip builds toward its grand finale: Poplar Hill Falls, the longest rapid in the Northeast. This one-mile Class IV–V rapid is packed with massive standing waves and deep, turbulent holes. Combined with the rest of the run, it creates what many consider the finest rafting trip in New England.

After rafting, many guests stay an additional night to relax by the pool or hike to nearby Moxie Falls, Maine’s highest waterfall.

Rafting Details

Rafting Only: $135 pp + $12 pp state and river access fees

Group Rate: One free trip per 16 rafters

Includes: Safety instruction, licensed guide, Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and helmet, transportation, riverside cookout, photo and video presentation

Raft Capacity: 8–9 paddlers (private raft for groups of 7–9)

2026 Release Dates: May 9, 16, 24, 30; June 6; Sept 6, 19; Oct 3

Lodging & Rafting Packages

Rafting + 1 night lodging: $202–$217

Rafting + 2 nights lodging: $269–$299

High Adventure Package (Dead and Kennebec): $361–$441

Trip Itinerary

Meeting Time: 8:30 AM

Gear fitting and safety briefing
Shuttle to put-in

Rafting:

16 miles of Class III–V whitewater

Return to Crab Apple base:

Facilities: Hot showers and changing areas available
Post-Trip Meal: Cookout with steak, chicken, fish, or vegetarian options
Slide Show and Video: Highlights of your rafting venture
Departure: Approximately 4:00–5:00 PM

Go For It Rafts

Our 13-foot Go For It Rafts are the shortest allowed by the State of Maine, delivering an even more intense ride. These smaller rafts are swallowed by waves and holes like FBI Hole and Hayden’s Landing, making this trip ideal for experienced rafters.