The Global Paddling Community

Playspot: USA, Maine, Bucksport area, Blue Hill Bay, Blue Hill Falls

What's it like

Great surfing wave formed by the incoming tide forced under a bridge, followed by one hundred yards of wave train, ending in a large pool (Salt Pond), with large eddies on both sides. Depending on the tidal surge it ranges from a flat smooth wave to a steep pulsating breaker followed by a steeper “second chance” wave. It’s possible to get 2-3 boats on the front wave.

The wave begins to form 2 1/2 - 3 hours before high tide in Portland. (Tide charts are available at LL Bean or the local newspapers). The greater the difference in high and low tide heights, the better the wave. A 10 foot or greater difference seems to be the most popular.

The falls can be run in reverse on the outgoing tide although you might get up close and personal with some barnacles. The water can be cold and swimming can be time consuming because of the huge pond. This is a great place for a boater of any level to practice or just surf and squirt till the tide flattens out the wave. Sometimes surfers have to dodge bridge jumpers, tubers, fishing boats and an occasional open boating tourist without flotation (which is not appreciated by the rescuers).

Ever surfed under a full moon? This is the place.

How to get there

Take Rt. 1/3 to Bucksport. Head east out of town towards Ellsworth. Rt. 15 South to Blue Hill. Go through town and turn right on Rt. 172/175. After a few miles Rt. 175 turns left. Follow this until you reach the concrete arch bridge. Park on the side of the road and watch for traffic as there are hills and blind curves around the parking. Put in is usually on the inland side of the bridge.

Locals

There is private property surrounding the play spot. Please be respectful. This is a good spot for the non-boaters to search for shells and star fish, or take photos! The town has lots o’lobster and other food. Local paddlers are very friendly. If you're on the Maine coast, strap on the boat, it’s worth the trip!

Info sources

Classic Northeastern Whitewater Guide, (1998) 3rd Edition, by Burce Lessels (Appalachian Mountain Club Books )

DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer

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