Whether you are looking to catch the vibrant fall foliage in Maine, navigate the rugged backcountry of Canada, or escape the winter chill in the American Southwest, timing is everything. At Smoking Rivers, our fully guided, all-inclusive canoe expeditions run year-round, following the best water levels and seasons across North America.

Review our calendar below to find the perfect dates for your next wilderness getaway.

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Seasonal Expedition Highlights

Our trips are carefully scheduled to ensure optimal river conditions, comfortable camping weather, and peak wildlife viewing. While specific dates vary from year to year, here is a general rhythm of our paddling seasons:

Spring & Summer: The Northern Waters

As the ice thaws and the rivers rise, we kick off our season in our own backyard.

• Maine Canoe Trips: Spring brings thrilling high-water expeditions into the deep Maine woods. By mid-summer, the water warms up, making for perfect, family-friendly trips down lively rivers like the St. Croix.

• Canadian & Arctic Expeditions: High summer is the best time to safely access our most remote destinations. Join us for rugged Canadian wilderness trips or our once-in-a-lifetime journey above the Arctic Circle on the Soper River.

Autumn: Fall Foliage Paddling

There is nothing quite like a crisp autumn morning on the river. Our September and October dates in Maine are highly sought after for their spectacular, vibrant colors and peaceful, quiet waterways.

Winter: The American Southwest

When the snow flies up north, we head south. Our winter calendar features destination adventures in the American Southwest, exploring the breathtaking canyons of the Rio Grande and the San Juan River.

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Canoeing Instruction Clinics

If you are looking to build your skills before tackling a big expedition, check the calendar for our annual instruction clinics. We regularly hold poling and whitewater clinics to teach paddlers how to handle a canoe in demanding river situations, read the river for the “V”s, and master new paddle strokes.

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Can’t Find the Perfect Date?

If our pre-scheduled calendar dates do not align with your family vacation or friends’ getaway, do not worry. We specialize in Custom Canoe Trips. If you have a specific time frame or a bucket-list river in mind that is not currently on the schedule, our team of experienced guides—including Jason, Dan, Randy, Will, and Chris—are happy to help you plan and guide a fully outfitted, personalized expedition.

Ready to secure your spot? Spaces on our trips are limited to ensure a high-quality, intimate wilderness experience. Browse the calendar below to find your adventure, or check out our FAQs if you have questions about what to expect on the water!