Clenching a paddle, you’re drenched by an explosion of cascading water as the rapids shoot by in fast forward. Your raft twists and dips in the rushing river, the blur of the beautiful countryside racing by. Your muscles and your mind are sharp as you guide an undersized watercraft through the meandering river. For adrenaline junkies, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Of course, unless you’re staying at Northern Outdoors in The Forks, Maine. Here, after you’ve quenched your thirst for adventure, crack a cold one and quench your thirst with a frosty craft beer. For Northern Outdoors is the only adventure and rafting resort in all of New England with its own microbrewery. And spring is the perfect time to enjoy this combination of adventure and ale with a Raft & Brews Spring Getaway.
The Kennebec River is New England’s most popular river for good reason. Featuring consistent Class II, III, and IV whitewater rafting, there are rapids fit for everyone from beginners to experienced adventurers. As you paddle, soak in the stunning scenery. The famous river carves through a deep, rock-walled gorge in the exciting Upper Kennebec before broadening out into the easygoing Lower Kennebec.
For those in search of white-knuckle whitewater rafting, look no further than the Dead River. This dam-controlled river thrusts you right in the middle of the excitement with heart-pounding Class III, IV, and V whitewater rafting. Crank up the action during a Kennebec Turbine Test, during which the water flows are upped to 8,000 CFS (cubic feet per second), nearly double the Kennebec River’s normal rafting release volume.
Drop your paddle and pick up an amber-hued speciality ale or lager at The Kennebec River Brewery, located in the main lodge at The Forks Resort Center. These handcrafted brews on tap put the perfect twist on that lazy, classic beach getaway. Sip these hoppy concoctions in casual comfort and see why Travel & Leisure called the Kennebec River Brewery one of America’s Coolest Breweries. For even more suds sampling, explore the Maine Beer Trail’s (of which the Kennebec River Brewery is part of) nearly three dozen breweries.
This intoxicating stay also showcases plenty of fun on dry land. Set off on a hike through the lush nature trails and find yourself at scenic overlooks, including the tallest waterfall in Western Maine. 
Take a soak in the giant hot tub on the back patio deck and enjoy live music on weekends. This time to unplug, enjoy nature’s majesty, and sip a few brews with buds is truly priceless.
“This is the premier whitewater rafting company of the East Coast,” a satisfied customer said. “I have done all three rivers now and it was a blast. The food, accommodations, guides, and staff were superb and the microbrewery tops off your fun.”
The best part is that all of this springtime fun comes at a discount. You receive 10 percent off rafting and lodging when you book 90 days in advance. All this comes on top of the already reduced value pricing during May and June, meaning your Raft & Brews Spring Getaway can be up to 35 percent cheaper than summer rates.
These spring savings, combined with whitewater rafting adventures and the exceptional onsite brewery, make Northern Outdoors the perfect place for exploration and relaxation.
