Getting out on the water is a wonderful way to escape to the outdoors, and Concordians are fortunate to have three rivers and several ponds on which to play, explore, and relax. These waterways provide opportunities to enjoy the natural world in a way that is quite different from experiencing our roadways, parks, and trails. On the water, one can imagine being in a distant place.

Does on the shore

Concord’s three rivers are part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, a program created by Congress in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Less than 1/2 of 1% of our nation’s rivers are protected under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System and we are fortunate, indeed, that Concord’s three rivers are part of the program. rivers.gov/index.php

A family of swans out for the day

Each of our area’s rivers is distinctly different. The Sudbury River is slow-moving and more open with Fairhaven Bay opening up from the River as if entering a pond with an island and a stone boat house on the shore. The Assabet River feels more intimate with its narrow and meandering flow. The Concord River is a mix of both and provides more places to go ashore and explore, including the North Bridge, Great Meadows, and October Farm. 

Egg Rock

There are several excellent access points on our rivers, including the place on Lowell Road where one can go about 200 yards upstream to Egg Rock and the confluence of the three rivers, or downstream to the North Bridge and more of the Concord River. Another is on the Lincoln side of the Rt. 117 bridge where it’s just a short distance downstream to Fairhaven Bay. There is also the launch off Baker Bridge Road which invites us to paddle up to Damon Mill. 

A beaver goes for a swim

Don’t have a boat? It’s easy to rent a canoe or a kayak for the day at the South Bridge Boat House and explore miles of peaceful waters on the Assabet, Sudbury, and Concord Rivers.

In addition to the rivers, we also have Walden Pond, White Pond, and Warner Pond, the first two of which are terrific places for a delightful summer swim.

Kayaking on a beautiful afternoon

The best times to be on these beautiful waterways are morning and early evening. Pack a picnic lunch and bring along binoculars and a camera. Look for the birds, mammals, and interesting plant life that are so different from the rest of Concord. So, whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, put on a life jacket and get out there to enjoy Concord’s amazing waterways.

For more information, visit the Concord Visitor Center at 58 Main Street. visitconcord.org

Photography by Dave Witherbee