Nemasket River in Massachusetts

Trip Overview

I kayaked the Nemasket River with my kayaking partner. It was a cold day and we got a relatively late start. We hit the water at about noon. There is a great put-in spot at a herring run off of the main road. Some interesting currents at the put-in spot, but once you get inside your kayak, it's smooth sailing.

The current is noticeable but not anything difficult. We began heading with the current on our journey. The river winds its way through a secluded south shore suburb. At some points houses are visible, but for the most part the river is surrounded by forest and wildlife.

Areas closer to shore still had ice, but we maneuvered our way around the ice, made for some great winter scenery. The river takes you under a few small bridges. Some may decide to portage at a couple of the bridges, but my friend and I decided to go under the bridges as we always do. This made for some interesting fun trying to battle the ice that was under the bridge, but when we finally made it out we felt pretty good, even though we knew we'd have to make it back under the bridge on the way back.

We've been doing a lot of planning with kayaking camping trips, Kayamping as we refer to it. We decided to pull our boats out of the water and cook some soup in a secluded spot, utilizing my friends new lightweight stove.

Our trek back up the river was far more taxing than the relaxing paddle down the river. Once again we battled our way back under the bridges, got a little wet, but no one took a cold bath, so we were happy. Spotted a great blue heron on the way back.

We made it back just before dark, and just in time, the temperature had dropped significantly as the sun went down. The Nemasket River is beautiful and secluded, with small glimpses back into civilization. The current is great for any beginner or for someone who just wants to enjoy a comfortable paddle. If you are feeling ambitious and have the time, continue up the river, where it joins the Taunton River. We haven't done that yet, but I'm sure that trip awaits us.

Accommodations:

There is some river information at the herring run, but nothing substantial. A port-a-potty.

Fees:

None.

Directions:

Take Rt. 44, Middleborough, MA towards Carver, MA from the Middleborough rotary, the herring run is on this road and is easily spotted on the side of the road.