Penobscot River

At 350 miles long, Penobscot River is the longest river in Maine. The Penobscot River flows east, towards the Atlantic Ocean where it empties itself in the Penobscot Bay, and its drainage basin contains 8,610 square miles. It is home to the Penobscot Native American tribe of people that live on Indian Island, Maine. Unfortunately, the river suffers from heavy pollution as a result of the nearby paper mills, and there is much effort underway to clean up this problem, which is affecting its inhabitants' way of life.

The formation of Penobscot River resulted from headtreeams that drained from lakes that were created by melting galciers. Penobscot River was first explored by European setters in 1603. Between 1673 and 1759, the French and the Brittish fought over this land, and then in 1815 it was again fought over between the British and the Americans. Initially, people in this area prospered in salmon farming, but it did not gain historical significance until it became an important hub for paper mills fueled by hydroelectric power, and for the transportation of timber. Penobscot River also gained popular recognition as the filming location for the movie The Hunt for Red October.

For visitors, Penobscot River is most well-known as a great place for water activities such as fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, and canoeing, as well as hunting in the woodlands. A popular attraction for visitors is the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, where adventurous tourists can venture up top to see a panormaic 360 degree view of the Penobscot Bay and the Maine coast from 42 stories high. There are several companies which can take you out on a river adventure, including Katahdin Outfitters and Moxie Rafting. The Penobscot River is considered Maine's most technical river, so it is highly recommended you get a guide or a rafting company to take you out onto the water. Some highlights of your river adventure will include beautiful scenery by Mount Katahdin and Baxter State Park, white water rapids to keep you going during the summer months, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way. In the upper west branch of the river it is very common to see moose.

Since Penobscot Bay is a place of nature, there is not much development in terms of shopping or dining. In surrounding areas, however, you will find plenty of restaurants as well as unique art, handcrafted quilts, pottery, sculpture, and antiques. Some of the most popular restaurants include the Blue Moon Restaurant for family dining, The Brooklyn Inn & Irish Pub, where the food is made with all local and organic ingredients, and Marlintini's Bar & Grill, where there is weekly live entertainment at night. Another hot spot in the evening is Wescott Forge Restaurant Lounge and Bar. Some of the best places to shop nearby include Four Flag Gifts, where you can pick up a souvenir, and Harbor Farm on Little Deer Isle, where you will find everything from books to furniture to local arts and crafts.

In the Penobscot Bay Area, you will find adorable B&B's, hotels, and other accommodation. The Brass Fox B&B provides a uniquely New England experience in an old Victorian farmhouse. At Hiram Blake Camp, you can rent a cottage on the shore, and breakfast and dinner are provided.

The Penobscot Bay Area is situated between Camden and Bar Harbor. It includes the towns of Blue Hill, Brooklyn, Brooksville, Castine, Deer Isle, Orland, Penobscot, Sedgwick, and Stonington. The Penobscot River can be found by car off Interstate 95. Be prepared to get wet when you arrive!