The Saco River provides ideal canoeing and kayaking for families. It’s wide and meandering, with a gentle current that flows by mountain scenery, sandy beaches, fishing holes, and rope swings, with nary a rapid in sight.

Northern Extremes offers several ways to get out onto the river, including three different guided trips between one and five hours, and rentals of canoes, kayaks, and tubes. Better yet, the company operates a continuous shuttle along the river so you won’t get stranded. Make a day of it with inflatable cooler and toys.