Debsoneag
Looking for a trip that’s off the grid and full of grit? The Debsconeag Loop is a challenging, scenic, and rewarding multi-day canoe expedition through one of Maine’s remote wilderness areas. You’ll paddle nearly 30 miles through lakes and rivers, navigate rapids, and complete several portages! This is a true remote canoe tripping experience so be prepared for a new campsite each night, treating all your water, and no outhouse!
There is no previous canoe experience required for this trip but members of this trip should be up for a demanding itinerary, be comfortable on the water and be proficient swimmers.
If there is anything in the trip description or equipment list that you have questions about, please do not hesitate to contact us at (207) 725-4292 or bocOtrips@bowdoin.edu.
Sample Itinerary
Wednesday
- Depart from Bowdoin early in the morning
- Arrive at the put-in, practice paddling stokes, and start your grand adventure!
- Paddle and portage (a fancy word for carrying your stuff and your boats) to camp at Passamagamet Lake
- Have a restful evening camping on the beach!
Thursday
- Paddle the West Branch of the Penobscot into Ambajejus Lake and then into Pemadumcook Lake.
- Camp on an island!
Friday
- Early start for a big day of portaging and paddling:
- 1-mile portage to Third Debsconeag Lake
- Short, portage to Second Debsconeag Lake
- Long 1/2 mile portage to First Debsconeag Lake
- Camp on the eastern end of First Debsconeag—rewarded with sandy beaches and stellar views.
Saturday
- Paddle back to your vehicles and pack up. Clean up all your camping stuff and return borrowed equipment before returning to your dorms.