Sheepscot River
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Location: Whitefield to Head Tide, Lincoln County
Description: The Sheepscot River is mostly quick water with class I-II rapids throughout the five miles to the take-out just above the Head Tide dam. Mostly a spring run, but it can be paddled after good rains during the summer.
Activities: Paddling
Favorite Season(s) to Visit: Spring and early summer
Why It’s Special: The start to this 3-4 hour paddle is not far from my house, and I usually do it once a year. Floating down on a river is my absolute favorite kind of time, and there are just enough little rips to make this stretch interesting. There’s also at least one portage unless the water is very high.
Tips: The first rip after putting in below the bridge in Whitefield is trickier than it looks, and kind of a surprise if it’s your first paddle of the season. I admit I’ve gotten hung up there more than once, but on a hot day, who cares? You can also portage at Head Tide and take the river all the way down to Wiscasset for a more tidal experience.
More info and directions: http://maineanencyclopedia.com/sheepscot-river-whitefield-to-head-tide/
