Preparation is key to a successful canoe trip on the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
There are no stores or cell service along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway so if you don't bring it, you'll need to get by without it. Being prepared with proper food and water supplies and essential gear will set you up for an enjoyable trip along the river. You will need to be self reliant and be able to self rescue if necessary so pack accordingly. Use this packing list as a helpful guide as you think about what you'll need.
GEAR
- Canoe
- Paddles and spares
- PFDs
- Throw bag
- Hatchet/bucksaw
- Dry bags
- Tent (ropes, stakes, repair kit)
- Tarp
- Sleeping bag in stuff sack
- Sleeping pad/air mattress
- Daypack
- GPS or compass, map
- First aid kit
- Knife
- Water filter or purifier tablets or pot for boiling
- Water bottle
- Duct tape
- Insect repellant
- Sunscreen
- Chapstick
- Flashlight
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Nylon rope
- Toliet Paper
- Trash bags: Allagash Wilderness Waterway is carry in-carry out
Cooking Essentials
- Matches/lighter
- Nesting pots/pans
- Fry pan and spatula
- Pot holder
- Can opener
- Stove/fuel
- Bowls/plates
- Cups – include measuring cup
- Personal utensils
- Dishpan/soap
- Pot scrubber
- Ziplock bags
- Bucket
Clothing
- Sandals with heel strap or wet shoes for river crossings
- Dry shoes for around camp: crocs, sneakers, lightweight hiking boots
- Sturdy boots for portage
- Long pants: something quick drying
- Shorts:
- Long sleeved shirt: synthetic, fleece, wool, nylon
- Short Sleeve shirts
- Set synthetic/poly long underwear, top and bottom
- Lightweight jacket: fleece, synthetic, wool
- Rain gear
- Brimmed hat for sun protection
- Gloves
- Lightweight socks
Food
Unlike backpacking, a canoe makes it easy to bring a lot of gear. Some paddlers enjoy campfire cooking and plan hearty meals while others prefer freeze dried food to cut down on weight.
If you do bring a cooler, consider freezing meats, butter, cheese, juice, etc ahead of time.
Bring some non perishable food items as well like pasta, rice, oatmeal, peanut butter, nuts, dried fruit and granola.
