New Meadows River from Sabino to The Basin

Put-in at Sabino

This was one of the nicest paddles we have had in Maine. The day we slipped away from work with the kayaks on the roof of the car was in late September and because it was mid-week, we saw very little in the way of boat traffic.

The put-in at Sabino, which has no public parking, but a permit may be had by calling the town office and paying a fee. There is a very small parking lot and most of the parking is along the road. It is a relatively easy put-in although we arrived about an hour before high tide and took out about 3 hours after, so I cannot say what it is like at low tide. Some local clammers and lobster fishermen and women were coming and going, using this access. They were friendly and helpful, but in a hurry to get their gear loaded and  unloaded, which we respected. One of them told us that the little cottage on the rocks in this photo has a "For Rent" sign on it and it is relatively inexpensive.

The water was unusually calm and we saw porpoise breaking the surface as we paddled past Winnegance Bay toward The Basin, an inlet that is very popular in the summer but quiet this time of year. A few leaves were turning color but most foliage was still green. A seal stretched his neck up to check us out and seemed to follow us for awhile.

Basin Island from the South side

There is a lengthy entrance to The Basin. One would think it was a river or large stream, but it opens up into a large body of water. On the right is Basin Island, which is on the Maine Islands Trail and where on can beach a kayak and enjoy a little stretch and picnic lunch. Go to the north west side of the island to find access. The rest of the island has sides that are too rocky and steep for landing a boat.

This is one of the prettiest places I have been in a kayak. I am looking forward to putting in at Sebasco and paddling up river to the Basin on another calm day this fall.

Whenever we return home from a day on the water, I am happy to have a Maine Warmer to relax and soothe my tired back muscles. The full back warmer is perfect for that, although a neck warmer can feel good as well.