Cheryl Thompson

The Blackstone River and its watershed offer a multitude of boating experiences for the novice or the expert. Explore the quiet, teeming marshes. Shoot through the challenging narrows and unusual flows. Don't forget your camera! There are at least 200 species of birds in the National Heritage Corridor, including 16 types of waterfowl.

Water in the Blackstone River drops 450 feet in its 46-mile journey from Worcester, MA to Pawtucket, RI, and eventually empties into the Narragansett Bay in Providence. It runs through urban areas, historic mill villages, past farmland and through forests, inviting paddlers to explore the physical remnants of its heritage including canal locks and mill structures. Dropping an average of ten feet per mile, it is interwoven with canal segments and flows over 18 dams. While noted for its industrial heritage, the river also offers many great recreational opportunities for flat water and quick water paddling.

The industrial history of the Blackstone Valley can be attributed to the power of the Blackstone River. While in most places the river is narrow and shallow, the power of its water flow should never be taken for granted. During times of heavy rain or major snowmelt, the water level of the river will rise quickly, significantly increasing its speed and presenting new obstacles for paddlers. In high water, strainers or sweepers are common along the banks of the Blackstone and require the paddler’s full attention. All levels of paddlers need to respect the power of the river and be aware that the water flow can fluctuate wildly over a short period of time, quickly creating challenging conditions. Please wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when paddling the Blackstone River. Paddlers should check the water level, weather, and river conditions prior to every trip. For more information on this see the “Contacts” section.

Enjoy discovering why the Blackstone River was once called “America’s Hardest Working River.”

Portages

Portages are listed at the beginning of each tour. Required portages, such as dams, rapids, and canal/river loops are noted on the map and in the accompanying text. Be aware: there are currently no warnings of approaching dams, and they are not always obvious from upstream. There are currently 18 dams along the River and most tours involve a portage.

Be prepared for a “wet portage”. Rubber-soled shoes that can get wet are a must for any paddling trip on the Blackstone River. Getting in and out of your boat in water and mud is part of every trip.

Assume that all land bordering the river is private property. Therefore, please be courteous and show respect for these lands. Portage quickly; do not loiter. Help foster a spirit of cooperation between riverfront landowners and recreational paddlers.

Many variables influence the amount of time required to paddle a mile of river. Water conditions exert the greatest influence, while wind, weather, and the paddler’s approach – athletic or leisurely – will all have an influence on the travel time. Most paddlers can expect to paddle approximately three miles per hour on a typical late spring day with minimal wind. Additional time is needed for portaging.


Beginner paddles In Massachusetts:

Blackstone Gorge, County St., Blackstone, to Millville Lock, Millville, MA

Blackstone Canal Paddle at River Bend Farm, 287 Oak St, Uxbridge, MA

Fisherville Pond, 176 Providence Road, Grafton, MA

Lackey Pond and the Mumford River, 42 Lackey Dam Rd, Sutton, MA

Quinsigamond River - Ekblaw Landing, 111 Worcester St, North Grafton, MA

Quinsigamond River - Riverview Park, 176 Providence Rd, Grafton, MA


Beginner paddles In Rhode Island:

Lonsdale Drive-In, North 121 John Street, Lincoln, RI

Slatersville Reservoir - 2890 Broncos Highway, Route 102, Burrillville, RI

Tarkiln Pond, Mowry and Tarkiln Road, Burrillville, RI

Wakefield Pond, Lee Circle, Pascoag, RI

Pascoag Reservoir/Echo Lake, Maroney Road/Widow Smith Rd, Chepachet, RI

Keech Pond, Indian Trail, Chepachet, RI

Smith & Sayles Reservoir, 82 Sand Dam Road, Chepachet, RI

Manville Landing, 5 Manville Hill Road, Cumberland, RI

Woonasquatucket Reservoir, Log Road, Smithfield, RI

Lincoln Woods State Park, 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln, RI

*** INTERMEDIATE **** River Island Park to Manville Dam, 95 Bernon St, Woonsocket, RI

 

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