Kennebec
2) Lower Kennebec: Carry Brook to the Forks
| Difficulty | II-III |
| Length | 8.1 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 17 fpm |
| Gauge | Kennebec River at the Forks, Maine |
| Flow Rate as of 22 minutes | 6340 cfsrunnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | October 11, 2024 |
River Description
Often run as a continuation of the upper Gorge run of the Kennebec especially for larger water craft such as rafts. The put in is down a long steep staircase to the waters edge at Carry Brook. The river from this point down is generally class II and quickwater. The biggest rapid (Big Black Brook Rapid) comes shortly after the put in. Each rapid thereafter is easier to negotiate. Take out just before the bridge at the Forks on either the right or left banks. The river right takeout by the Ball field is easier.
Technical info
Put in elevation........706'Take out elevation......574'Total drop..............132'Average drop/mile.......17'Distance................7.8 milesRiver width average.....50'River geology...........Slate ledgeRiver water quality.....Good, clarity good.Scenery.................Excellent, isolated wilderness riverWildlife................Deer, moose, osprey, eagles.River Features
Map of the Forks Maine
Map Key
1. 1. WebbÂs Dead River Campground & Shuttle Service: Shuttles to the Dead put in, campground with showers. For shuttle service call (207) 663-2114 and ask for Karen. To book a site at Webb's campground call River Drivers to make the reservations. That phone number is: 207-663-4475. The cost is $5.00 per person, per night, plus 7% State tax.
2. AppletonÂs restaurant: Pizza, subs, ice cream, breakfast.
3. River Drivers: Rafting, etc.
4. Paddling shop: Dead River Outfitters
5. BerryÂs General Store: Gas, Beer, food, supplies, pizza, subs
6. The Ball field campground: Primitive campsites, porta-poties, no showers. Take out for Lower Kennebec.
7. Crab Apple Camping Rafting, hot tub, bar, food.
8. Public Picnic area: also used as Lower Kennebec take out.
9. The Marshall Hotel (Hotel Cocktails): Food, bar, horse shoes, pool table.
10. Dead River takeout.
11. Majic Falls Rafting: Raft trips, camping
12. Three Rivers Whitewater & Kelly Brook campground
13. Northern Outdoors Camping, Rafting, restaurant, hot tub, bar, entertainment
14. North Country Rivers Rafting, etc.
15. Professional River Runners: Rafting, etc.
16. New England Outdoor Center: Rafting, Paddling shop, etc.
17. Indian Pond campground
Not on map:
Moxie Gore cabins: : $30 per night
Moxie Outdoor Outfitters: 866-663-2646 Large cabins $75 per night
Big Black Brook Rapid
This is the biggest rapid on this section. The route is easily boat scouted. Waves can be large at 4800 cfs release levels and huge at 6000+ cfs.
Trip Reports
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