The informal and fun-focused Great Falls Paddling Society was formed in 2009 to raise awareness of the recreational potential of the Androscoggin River in downtown Lewiston-Auburn, Maine and to introduce paddlers to the river as well as the historic landscape along its banks.
The Society hosts specific activities to connect residents and guests with the Androscoggin River during the summer paddling season each year. Please join us at any of these events, become a member of ALT and you will also belong to the Great Falls Paddling Society!
- Annual Androscoggin River Cleanup; Usually the weekend before the Great Falls Balloon Fest in mid-August (look to the events page for current season dates) volunteers gather at Little Andy Park in New Auburn to walk and paddle up and down both sides of the river picking up trash and debris. The City of Auburn will take away the accumulated trash and the volunteers enjoy snacks during the event and afterwards, the first Baxter Beer provided to each adult volunteer. Hundreds of pounds of trash have been cleared each year and we look for lots of volunteers to support this fun morning of good effort. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own canoes although there is always a supply of available canoes. This event is sponsored by ServiceMaster Clean and Baxter Brewing.
- The Great Falls Balloon Festival; for the three days of the festival, held the third weekend in August, paddlers gather at Little Andy Park in New Auburn to enjoy viewing of the balloons from the river. 5 am and 5 pm launch times, weather permitting.
- Paddle After Hours; a monthly event in the summer on a Thursday evening (look to the events page for current season dates) paddlers gather at the Auburn public boat launch at 5:15 pm for a paddle and pint at Gritty’s after work.