The first section of this paddle is on the Chain of Ponds, a series of narrow ponds with great mountain views. It is best completed when there is less wind, often in the morning. There is a dam at the end of the Chain of Ponds that requires a 20-yard portage. The portage is found just to the left of the dam, on a small beach landing area. To put back in, follow an informal path around the dam on the left.
After the dam, the North Branch of the Dead River begins with a mix of a few Class I-II rapids and some calmer currents for around 2.25 miles. At this point, Sarampus Falls (Class IV) is found around a curve in the river. The start of the falls can be difficult to spot from the river, so be careful not to go down the falls without the proper preparation. The take-out (or portage) is found on the right side of the river, immediately before the falls at a rocky outcrop. This is a good place for less experienced paddlers to take out, as Sarampus Falls and Little Sarampus Falls (Class III) can be challenging rapids.
If desired, continue on the river for another 5.5 miles to reach another take-out point at a primitive campsite along Airport Road to the left, 13 miles from the start at Chain of Ponds. If paddling this section, Shadagee Falls (11.75 miles) is found about 4 miles after Sarampus Falls. It is a good idea to scout or portage this Class II-III rapid from the right side of the river.
The paddle can be extended downstream to a more challenging stretch of river by paddling from Airport Road to King and Bartlett Bridge.
A downloadable map of the route is available at the Northern Forest Canoe Trail website (free for members!).
For more information, contact:
Put-ins:
Natanis Point Campground: From the intersection of ME-27 and ME-16 in Stratton/Eustis, go north on ME-27 for 21.7 miles. Turn left onto Natanis Point Road. Drive past main office onto small access road to put-in at the beach. There is also a boat ramp if necessary. Fee-required ($5).
Upper Farm Campground: From the intersection of ME-27 and ME-16 in Stratton/Eustis, go north on ME-27 for 18.1 miles. Turn left onto a dirt road that eventually opens into a public campsite beside the water. There is a small beach area to put-in.
Take-outs:
Sarampus Falls: Head north on ME-27 from the intersection of ME-27 and ME-16 in Stratton/Eustis. After 15 miles, there will be a rest area on the right, which is just downstream from the falls.
Airport Road: Head north on ME-27 from the intersection of ME-27 and ME-16 in Stratton/Eustis. After 7.1 miles, turn right on King and Bartlett Road. Stay left as other dirt roads branch to the right. After about 4.1 miles, there is a pull-off on the left that looks like a small campsite. From the pull-off, you can carry boats from the river.
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