Paddling the Blackstone

Canoeing the Blackstone River

The story of the Blackstone River and Canal can be told from many vantage points, but perhaps the best way to experience its history and beauty is on the waterways themselves. The river and canal segments form an interesting and sometimes seamless exploration of the Valley and its industrial heritage where you will discover the dams, canal locks, bridges and other structures that tell the story of “America’s Hardest Working River”.

The main stem of the river meanders 46 miles from Worcester, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island through urban landscapes, historic villages, farmlands, and forests. The Blackstone drops an average of almost 10 feet per mile. This drop allowed for the development of the many mills you will see along the way. Today, 18 dams are still in place and presents paddlers with the challenge of several portages in certain stretches of the river.

To learn more about where you can paddle on the Blackstone River, visit the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor's website.

Details

Duration

1-4 Hours

Activity

Paddling

Age(s)

Individuals who attempt to paddle the canal should be old enough to safely be in a canoe or kayak, and should be in good health. Paddlers are reminded to always wear personal flotation devices when on the water.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

1075 Lower River Road, Lincoln, RI 02865

There are numerous locations to begin a beautiful paddle down the Blackstone River or the Blackstone Canal. Visit our Outdoor Activity webpage for more information on where to paddle the Blackstone by clicking here.

The Blackstone River is a great spot to paddle the canal and river. 

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Individuals who attempt canoeing or kayaking the Blackstone should be in good physical health. Paddlers are reminded to always wear a personal flotation device while on the water. There are several access points along the river and the canal which ease access to the river, but individuals attempting to paddle should be highly mobile and in good health.