The annual Androscoggin Source-to-the-Sea Trek launches in about two weeks, and it's worth checking out as a wonderful way to get out on the water with canoeing or kayaking friends -- or make some new paddling pals -- and learn about Maine's third largest river.

Kayakers paddle down the Androscoggin in the section between Gilead and Bethel.
SCOTT ANDREWS FILE PHOTO

Longtime Andro trekkers like myself might notice that the word "canoe" has been dropped from the title. That avoids the No. 1 question, which is "I have a kayak. Am I welcome?" The answer has always been "come along!"

Kayakers and canoeists paddle below the NewPage paper mill in Rumford.
SCOTT ANDREWS FILE PHOTO

What hasn't changed is the emphasis on introducing new outdoors enthusiasts to the Andro, which was once ranked (by Newsweek magazine) as among our nation's 10 filthiest.

The Pulp and Paperworkers Resource Council always participates in the Androscoggin Source-to-the-Sea Trek.
SCOTT ANDREWS FILE PHOTO

The trek is organized by the Androscoggin River Watershed Council, and despite the through-paddling implications of the name, it's really a series of independent day trips.

The public is invited to participate. Most people paddle one or two days, but a few do half a dozen or more.

Nearly all sections involve easy flatwater paddling, and the average day only covers about 10 miles. The pace is slow and participation is free; this is neither a race nor a fund-raiser. It's more of an awareness-raiser than anything else.

All sections are led by experienced paddlers (I personally lead two days) and many segments include a free picnic lunch and an interpretive program by a riverside organization.

This year's dates are July 6-25. The paddling starts on Lake Umbagog, on the Maine-New Hampshire border, and continues to tidewater in Merrymeeting Bay and finally reaches Fort Popham on the Gulf of Maine.

Paddling in Merrymeeting Bay last summer.
SCOTT ANDREWS FILE PHOTO

Pre-registration for each section is required. Call coordinator Barbra Barrett at 207-527-2163.

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