Kennebec Turbine Test High Water Rafting with Northern Outdoors

During a turbine test, Brookfield Power tests their generating turbines by releasing the maximum amount of water possible from Harris Station Dam. Kennebec Turbine Test rafting trips enjoy 8,000+ cubic feet per second (cfs) water flows, which is nearly DOUBLE the Kennebec River’s normal whitewater rafting release volume. Northern Outdoors offers two types of trips: a full day, top to bottom river trip OR a half day “double trouble” – read on for all of the details! If you love whitewater action, you will want to be on one of these special Turbine Test release trips–only 4 per season!

Morning Check in: 7:45am: Meet the Northern Outdoors trip leader in the main lodge- make sure you have your release forms filled out! This is when you rent wetsuits and finalize what you want to bring on the river. After the first check in, you’ll go through the safety orientation, paddling instructions, and gear up before the short ride to Harris Station Dam. 9:30am – 1:30pm: Upon arrival at the Dam, your Registered Maine Whitewater Guide will lead you and your crew into the granite walls of the upper Kennebec River gorge. This high-adventure whitewater rafting trip races through the beautiful Upper Kennebec Gorge with non-stop action and huge waves. The Kennebec broadens after a brief stop for a snack, into the fast-moving lower section surrounded by forests and wildlife. Enjoy incredible scenery, exciting rapids and plenty of opportunities to float in the water and see wildlife such as eagles and osprey diving for fish! 2:00pm: Northern Outdoors’ rafting trip takeout is only a few miles up the road from our resort. After a short ride to The Forks Adventure Resort, you’ll enjoy the classic grilled river lunch back at the Kennebec River Pub & Brewery including steak, salmon, chicken, or veggie burger, accompanied by stir-fried rice, salad, dessert, and beverages. After lunch the guides put on a slideshow of photos and video of you conquering the whitewater — grab a craft beer, kick back, and get ready to laugh! Expect this trip to wrap up around 3:30pm, including the slideshow and video.