Snake River in Massachusetts

Trip Overview

Started at Winnecunnet Pond in Norton to Lake Sabbatia in Taunton. The first half mile or so of the river was VERY narrow with many downed or low hanging trees that took up most of the stream although there was enough room to sneak by. The worst part was the poison ivy, there were several large patches hanging over the water but again if you were careful you could get by without touching it.

The river was somewhat fast as there had been 3 days of rain previous to our trip but it was plenty deep the whole way, I read another report where someone made this trip in October and the stream was dry and they had to walk through.

After the first half hour the stream opened up and while there were still several short narrow passages it was much better than the first stretch. There is one foot bridge that you need to pull out to get around and again be careful of the poison ivy. After that bridge things really opened up and it was a very pleasant paddle.

We saw blue heron, trumpet swans and several eastern bluebirds after we passed under 495. The entire trip was about 4.25 miles and took 1:45 to complete.

Accommodations:

Good launch areas at both ends.

Fees:

No

Directions:

Bay Road in Norton across the street from Winnecunnet Pond