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Allagash Wilderness Waterway Watercraft Regulations
Definitions:
Canoe: A canoe is defined as a form of small watercraft long and narrow, sharp on both ends or sharp on one end and blunt at the other, usually propelled by paddles or small motors and having no sails. The width at the widest point shall not exceed 20% of the craft’s overall length, nor shall the transom, if any, exceed 26 inches in width. Measurement shall be the outside of the hull but shall not include gunwales, rub rails, or spray rails, if any
Kayak: A kayak is defined as a form of small watercraft, long and narrow, sharp on both ends, usually propelled by a double-bladed paddle in a sitting position, and having no sails. It usually has a covered deck, a cockpit covered by a spray-deck and/or skirt, and may be equipped with a small rudder. The width at the widest point shall not exceed 25% of the craft’s overall length. Measurement shall be the outside of the hull but shall not include gunwales, rub rails, or spray rails, if any.
Restrictions
Allagash rules restrict use of types of watercraft in several sections of the Waterway in order to maintain a traditional experience. For example,
Telos and Chamberland Lake motor size is unlimited, but personal watercraft, hovercraft, airboats, racing boats, and pontoon boats are prohibited.
Lock Dam North to West Twin Brook only canoes and kayaks with motors not exceeding 10 horsepower may be used. Watercraft must meet the definition of a canoe or kayak shown in the box above. Inflatable watercraft and prefabricated sails are prohibited. Watercraft
Allagash Lake and Allagash Stream, only canoes and kayaks without motors may be used. Watercraft must meet the definition of a canoe or kayak shown in the box above. Inflatable watercraft and prefabricated sails are prohibited. Watercraft
Basic Guidelines
Length |
10ft |
11ft |
12ft |
13ft |
14ft |
15ft |
16ft |
17ft |
18ft |
19ft |
20ft |
21ft |
22ft |
23ft |
24ft |
Canoe 20% |
24” |
26” |
29” |
31” |
34” |
36” |
38” |
41” |
43” |
46” |
48” |
50” |
53” |
55” |
58” |
Kayak 25% |
30” |
33” |
36” |
39” |
42” |
45” |
48” |
51” |
54” |
57” |
60” |
63” |
66” |
69” |
72” |
To measure the width:
1) Measure to the outside of the widest part of the hull.
2) Do not include gunwales, rub rails, or spray rails.
THE FOLLOWING WATERCRAFT ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THE ALLAGASH WILDERNESS WATERWAY
We want your Allagash experience to be as pleasurable as possible.
If you’re still uncertain about your canoe or kayak’s specifications, please call our office:
M-F, 8am-4pm, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Maine Bureau of Parks & Lands
207-941-4014
bpl@maine.gov | 
