Packraft RoundUp Comes to Maine: Four Days on the West Branch of the Penobscot

Whether you're brand new to packrafting or it's already your favorite way to get deep into the backcountry, mark your calendar — the American Packrafting Association is bringing a Regional RoundUp to Maine for the very first time, and it's happening in one of the most iconic paddling landscapes in the Northeast.

From September 4–7, 2026, packrafters from all over will gather at Big Eddy in Millinocket to paddle, learn, and swap stories in the shadow of Katahdin. If you've been looking for your sign to load up the boat and head north, this is it.

Why This RoundUp Is Special

The APA's RoundUps are the longest-running events of their kind in North America, and they've traditionally lived out West — Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado. This is the first time a Regional RoundUp is landing in Maine, and it's a big deal for the East Coast paddling community.

The event is hosted by the American Packrafting Association in partnership with Packraft Maine, who know the West Branch of the Penobscot as well as anyone. Expect daily guided trips on nearby sections of the river, a chance to sharpen your skills alongside experienced paddlers, and the kind of easygoing riverside community that makes these gatherings worth the drive.

It's the whole reason we love this sport packed into one long weekend: moving water, big woods, good people, and the shared thrill of exploring by boat.

What to Expect on the Water

Big Eddy sits right on the West Branch of the Penobscot River, one of Maine's premier whitewater runs, with easy access to a variety of sections — the Lower West Branch, the Seboomook stretch, and the South Branch among them. That range means there's something for a spread of skill levels, from paddlers building confidence to folks chasing bigger water.

Wherever you fall on that spectrum, you'll be surrounded by people who love this stuff and are happy to help you level up.

Dates, Location & Registration

When: September 4–7, 2026

Where: Big Eddy Campground, Millinocket, Maine — on the West Branch of the Penobscot River

Registration: Spots are limited to just 40 paddlers, so this one will fill up. Registration is open now through the American Packrafting Association.

Cost: $100 for APA members, $145 for non-members — so an APA membership pays for itself with the discounted rate (plus you're supporting the organization that makes events like this happen).

Come Paddle With Us

Four days of rivers, learning, and connection in the heart of the Maine North Woods — this is exactly the kind of gathering that reminds you why you fell in love with packrafting in the first place. If you've never made it to a RoundUp because they've always been a plane ride away, there's never been a better time to go.

We'd love to see you on the water. Grab your spot before they're gone, and we'll see you at Big Eddy.

Registration and full details are available through the American Packrafting Association. Questions about the region or the West Branch? Packraft Maine (packraftme.com) is a great local resource.