Narrow River 2026

The Narrow River has several bridges along its length which could pose an obstacle to boats with high superstructures, towers, or masts, but it is very popular with paddlers as well as smaller motorboats and jetskis. In fact paddlers may be happier in the upper reaches (and shallow areas) where motorboats are less common. In the lower section, where these access sites are located, kayaks and other small boats should hug the shore or stick to the very shallow areas. The wetlands along the shoreline of the cove to the west of the bridge offer lots of possibilities for small boat explorations, as well as bird watching.

This is a tidal inlet so you need to pay attention to the tide and tidal currents. It can be very hard work (or even impossible) to paddle against the tide.

Heading downriver from the Route 1A bridge towards the beach does lead to some interesting areas before you get to the ocean but heavy surf is common at the mouth of the river, where the river flows into the ocean. Very experienced kayakers sometimes play in this surf, but all less experienced paddlers should avoid this area. There is a small side channel on the northeast side of the river before it gets to the ocean that is interesting in a kayak and avoided by power boats.

In the many areas where low tide uncovers broad mud flats be careful not to ground out on a falling tide. Even in a canoe or kayak you can find yourself stuck in mud too sticky to paddle off of and too soft to stand on.

The wide parts of the Narrow River and open enough for wind and waves to be a potentially serious issue for paddlers. Watch the forecast and watch the weather once you are on the water.

It should be noted that while most locals know this river as the Narrow River, the official name for it is the Pettaquamscutt River, and that is how it is shown on most maps and in many guide books.
Depending on the wind, current, tide and weather this paddle can go anywhere from beginner to intermediate.
Requirements to attend this paddle

• arrive 1/2 hour prior to posted launch time
• event start time is in your boat, in the water, and ready to paddle! You will need to transport your boat a few hundred feet, from the parking lot to the beach to launch.
• 12 foot kayak recommended - (no inflatable kayaks)
• light
• whistle
• a Coast Guard approved PFD (inflatable PFDs are not allowed)
• spray skirt
• bilge pump
• appropriate clothing for the water temperature

Suggested
We strongly recommend that you bring along the following:

• drinking water
• food
• sunscreen
• a change of dry clothes in a dry bag
• familiarize yourself with the area prior to paddling
• check weather conditions for wind speed direction and tides

Any paddle sport is an assumed risk sport. Some aspects of canoeing and kayaking involve the risk of serious injury or death. Southern New England Paddlers (SNEP) although safety conscious, cannot guarantee your personal safety in our Meetup activities.