Penobscot River
170.67 km | 106.05 mi
Length can differ from official measure!
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The Penobscot River is the longest river in Maine, USA, with a length of approximately 171.74 km | 106.71 mi. It originates in the forests of northern Maine, near the Canadian border, and flows through a diverse landscape of forests, swamps, and agricultural lands before emptying into Penobscot Bay in the Atlantic Ocean. Its drainage basin covers approximately 22,300 km², about a quarter of Maine's area.
The river has historical and cultural significance, particularly to the Penobscot Nation, an indigenous tribe that has lived along the river for thousands of years. It was an important trade and transportation route for timber and other goods during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the river is known for recreational activities such as fishing (e.g., for Atlantic salmon and trout), kayaking, and whitewater rafting, especially in the upper reaches.
Ecologically, the Penobscot River is important, providing habitat for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. In recent decades, efforts have been made to improve water quality and remove dams to promote fish migration, resulting in the successful revival of some fish populations.
Important cities along the river include Bangor and Old Town. The Penobscot River is also known for its scenic beauty, especially in the fall when the surrounding forests ablaze with vibrant colors.
The river has historical and cultural significance, particularly to the Penobscot Nation, an indigenous tribe that has lived along the river for thousands of years. It was an important trade and transportation route for timber and other goods during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the river is known for recreational activities such as fishing (e.g., for Atlantic salmon and trout), kayaking, and whitewater rafting, especially in the upper reaches.
Ecologically, the Penobscot River is important, providing habitat for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. In recent decades, efforts have been made to improve water quality and remove dams to promote fish migration, resulting in the successful revival of some fish populations.
Important cities along the river include Bangor and Old Town. The Penobscot River is also known for its scenic beauty, especially in the fall when the surrounding forests ablaze with vibrant colors.

