Guided Canoe Trips on the St. John (Wolastoq) River

The largest of Maine’s rivers, the Wolastoq (St. John), is reminiscent of the great rivers of the Canadian North. From Baker Lake, the river begins as a small stream, gradually growing in size and power as it flows near the Canadian border. The Wolastoq (St. John) is a great river to learn or refine river paddling techniques because the rapids become successively more difficult as we voyage north to our takeout at Dickey Landing. The river winds through some of Maine’s wildest and most remote country, so it’s no wonder the lynx chose this area to be their last home in the eastern lower 48 states. Other wildlife commonly seen on the Wolastoq are bald eagles, river otters, beavers, and majestic moose. To view the trip itinerary, click here.

RECOMMENDED READING

• Nine Mile Bridge by Helen Hamlin
• Tales from Maliseet Country by Karl V Teeter

PRICE INCLUDES

1. All food and gear (including sleeping bags, pads, dry bags)
2. Transportation to and from Medway to river
3. Minimum of 2 guides

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

1. Transportation to Medway, Maine
2. Overnight stays in motels in Medway, Maine
3. Meals if needed in Medway, Maine

St. John River – Wildest Country in Maine

The St. John River, also known as Wolastoq, is within the southernmost extent of the great Boreal Forest. This is the wildest, most remote country left in the eastern U.S. and contains the highest density of Canadian lynx in the lower 48 states. For many avid wilderness paddlers, the St. John River is a must on their bucket list.

A Journey from Baker Lake to the Canadian Border

The St. John River’s Canoe Trip starts at Baker Lake and becomes more impressive as it goes north. Starting as a small, meandering stream, the river gradually grows in size and power as it flows near the Canadian border. It is very reminiscent of some of the big Canadian rivers that we have paddled in the past.

Progressive Rapids for Skill Development

As you paddle down the St. John River, you’ll encounter rapids that become successively more challenging. This unique feature makes the river an ideal progression for novice paddlers looking to learn river canoeing skills and experienced canoeists who want to refine their river paddling techniques. By the end of the St. John River trip, you will be much more competent and confident in your river canoeing ability.

Wildlife on the St. John River Canoe Trip

The St. John River’s remoteness is home to diverse wildlife, which offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing of North Woods animals.

North Woods’ Mammals

As you embark on the St. John River, keep an eye out for the elusive lynx, the last of their kind in the eastern lower 48 states. This rare sighting adds a sense of wonder to your journey through Maine’s wild landscapes. Other common sightings on the St. John River trip are moose, river otter, beaver, white-tailed deer, and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of a black bear or coyote.

Birds and Waterfowl

The St. John River is also a haven for birdwatchers, with bald eagles and osprey often seen along the river corridor. The St. John River country is also the southernmost extent of many Boreal bird species, such as the Rusty-Winged Black Bird, the Boreal Chickadee, and the Black-Backed Woodpecker. Common waterfowl seen along the river include Common Mergansers, Goldeneye ducks, Wood ducks, and Black ducks.

Join Mahoosuc Guide Service on our St. John River canoe trip and experience the thrill of encountering diverse wildlife in their natural environment. Our guides will help you spot wildlife, enriching your wilderness adventure and creating lasting memories.

For trip itinerary, click here

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