Middle Dam & Rapid River Lands
About Middle Dam and our Rapid River Lands
RLHT owns the 165’ of land around Pond in the River and both sides of the Rapid River. RLHT acquired them due to the 1998 licensing of Upper and Middle Dam. It also includes 250’ on both sides of the Upper River, starting approximately 500’ below Middle Dam, to include 250’ on both sides of the Upper River to First and Second Current.
The Rapid River, located between Richardson and Umbagog Lakes, is part of the Androscoggin River drainage basin. The River is 3.2 miles of nearly continuous Class III-IV rapids is one of Maine’s most spectacular whitewater rivers.
The Carry Trail, primarily accessed by Richardson Lake, is the best route to access the foot trails to historical Rapid River pools. The trail traverses several scenic locations and easy hiking with low-impact hills.
North Waters Outfitters manages Cedar Stump Campsites. For reservations to these remote sites, contact them at (603) 482-3817.
The Rapid River is located between Richardson and Umbagog Lakes and is part of the Androscoggin River drainage basin. The Rapid is 3.2 miles of nearly continuous Class III-IV rapids is one of Maine’s most spectacular whitewater rivers.
The Carry Trail, primarily accessed by Richardson Lake, is the best route to access the foot trails to historical Rapid River pools. The trail traverses several scenic locations and easy hiking with low-impact hills.
North Waters Outfitters manages Cedar Stump Campsites. For reservations to these remote sites, contact them at (603) 482-3817.
Recreation Opportunities
Water Levels
Visit Brookfield Renewable’s SafeWaters for real-time information on lake levels and dam releases in the Rangeley Region.
Conservation Story
THE SEVEN LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES
FOR OUR CONSERVATION AREAS
Being prepared means knowing where you are going before getting there. Pack a map, talk with hikers and look at trail apps. Choose equipment for comfort, weather, and safety. Plan the trip to match your time, skills, and abilities.
We strive for one well-designed trail rather than many poorly chosen routes. Stay within the width of the trail and hike single file on durable surfaces, like rock and sand. They can withstand repeated use. Durable surfaces are less likely to erode. Vegetation, including the lichen that grows on rocks, is fragile and easily damaged by treads.
Carry in, carry out. Please remove your pet’s waste.
Allow those who come after you the same sense of wonder by leaving flowers, rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts, and other objects of interest where they are.
Permitted campfires are allowed in the established fire ring. State of Maine laws must be followed.
When wildlife watching, we recommend using the Rule of Thumb. Don’t touch, get near, feed, or pick up wild animals. Doing so causes them stress, and they may have a harmful disease to humans.
Always be courteous to other visitors. Everyone deserves to enjoy a positive outdoor experience. Be mindful of your noise level, be a responsible pet owner, and enjoy the natural world.
Trail Map
Visit Maine Trail Finder for a map of this conservation area and trailside services.
Support Our Work
Have you met a River Ambassador? Consider a gift to support our Community Conservation Corps.
Report a Trail Issue
Let us know where to target our efforts with an easy trail report from your phone!
FIND A CONSERVATION AREA
Boat Storage a the South Tip of the Pond
Boaters that want to store their boat on the Rapid River property must contact RLHT Stewardship staff to pay a $50 non-refundable administrative fee for a three-year term, due April 1st.
- One boat is allowed per person/permit. Land and lease owners are the only exception with permission and RLHT’s discretion.
- No boxes or containers are allowed and will be removed.
- Annually contact RLHT to confirm your boat’s presence.
Please note: The South Tip of the Pond remains the only location boats are stored, and there are a few grandfathered exceptions.
Current Conditions
71°F
