There’s so much to see and do, it’s never too early to start planning your trip! Whitewater rafting is all the rage in the area. The Forks, a major outdoor and whitewater rafting area lying at the confluence of the Dead River from the west and the Kennebec River from the east, is the main destination for taking on the river adventure of a lifetime. Countless whitewater rafting outfits are now set up for business in The Forks, ready to guide you through a safe, yet exciting water adventure. Also near The Forks is Moxie Falls, one of Maine's highest waterfalls and one of the state's most beautiful sites. Bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it!
The Kennebec River and thousands of acres of untouched, open land offer spectacular scenic views and additional opportunities to play outside. Pick your own apples at one of the many local orchards, while taking in the brilliant fall colors. Head to Jackman and the Moose River Valley where you can canoe the 34-mile Moose River Bow Trip or hop on one of the hundreds of ATV, snowmobile, or hiking trails. Or take on Mt. Kineo in Rockwood-on-Moosehead. Registered Maine Guides are available throughout the region, ready to help plan, organize, and safely guide you on your hunting, rock climbing, fishing, hiking, or kayaking expedition.
For a spectacular golf experience on a championship golf course visit Belgrade Lakes, also home to some of the best swimming and fishing in Maine. The Belgrade Lakes Golf Club was the vision of one of Maine’s great philanthropists, Harold Alfond. His “country club for the average guy” is recognized as one of the country’s premier gold courses and has been recognized in Golf World and Golf Digest. American playwright Ernest Thompson was so inspired by childhood summers spent in Belgrade Lakes that he penned On Golden Pond.
It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting, enjoy four seasons of fairs and festivals in The Kennebec Valley. There’s the Monmouth Apple Fest in September and the Lake George Regional Park Winter Carnival and Ice Fishing Derby in February. For a full listing of the area’s many events, fairs and, festivals, visit the official Events page. You can also download the fully-interactive visitor’s guidebook.
Antiquing is a pastime in The Kennebec Valley. In downtown riverfront locations, you’ll be charmed and delighted by the many shops carrying everything from Native American artifacts to Victorian-era furniture. Hallowell is a great place to start your hunt!
Aside from treasures of days gone by, there is much more history to uncover in The Kennebec Valley! Augusta, while the second smallest state capitol in the United States, is a history buff’s dream come true! Make a day of exploring the Capitol Complex home to the Maine State Museum, Blaine House, the State House and Capitol Park. Tour the old Fort Western, the oldest surviving wooden fort in New England.
The Kennebec Valley also offers plenty of retail, from one-of-a-kind boutiques to world-famous chains. To plan a day of shopping, please see The Kennebec Valley Shopping page.
The Kennebec Valley in Maine is the kind of place where the happiest of memories are made, no matter what your age or activity.
