Middle Blackwater

Trip Overview

Down the middle section of the Blackwater River from Peter's Bridge in Salisbury to Burbank's Mill in Webster to NH. The route is entirely within the flood control area behind the Blackwater Dam (US Army Corps of Engineers). This is a flatwater trip though there is a constant current that can be paddled against if required. The area visible from the banks is in a substantial natural state except for one road crossing and the occasional historical remnants of settlement. Approximately 13.75 miles. Because the riparian zone is relatively remote there is no effort to remove wood from the stream to facilitate paddling and this led to 13 portages around blow downs. Of the 13 two were simple enough to lift over but the remaining 11 required hauling boats around through brush and other obstacles. There were also several "schooch" overs. At different water levels you might encounter fewer or more obstacles. It took us 6+ hours to make the descent (two people). A challenging effort but the feeling of solitude and remoteness is unparalleled this far south in New England.