Charles River in Massachusetts

Trip Overview

I suggest heading to the left to truely enjoy a calming and beautiful experience. There is a small current but it is so minimal you won't even notice it. After about 200 yards you will see an amazing amount of Purple Loosestrife and Duckweed everywhere. This will line the whole trip up to 109 if you decide to go that far which is only about 2 miles, but winding. I came across 4 different Heron and spooked some Cormorants along the way not to mention the numerous varieties of birds that included Red Winged Black Birds, and Doves. Turtles were sunning themselves all along the shorline and you could barely hear anything else.

Don't let the name and reputation of the Charles River put you off from doing this exact trip. By no means is it challenging but if you just want to really relax and enjoy the magic of the outdoors, do it. I strongly suggest going early in the morning to have the whole Watershed to yourself. I went out at 6:30 am and only saw two older gentleman fishing in a canoe.

Fees:

No fees or permits required unless you want to fish you will need a MA fishing liscence.

Directions:

Follow Rt. 109 to Medfield Center and take 27 North for approximately 2 miles. There is a parking area on the left side of the road just before the bridge and the Sherborn line.

Launches:

I put in on the side of the bridge. The path to the launch sit is a bit narrow with some rocky footing but only 30 yards at most. The launch spot is perfect for heading out.

Contact:

http://www.crwa.org/index.html?wavestop.html

Resources:

"Canoeing the Charles is a detailed account of Ralph Frederick Perry's adventures on the Charles River during the turn of the twentieth century."