Boston may be a bustling city, but there are numerous enjoyable outdoor activities, particularly during spring, summer, and fall. When the weather is pleasant, one of the most popular destinations is the iconic Charles River, which flows from Hopkinton through 23 towns before reaching Boston.
In the city, you will find an array of outdoor enthusiasts jogging and cycling along the river’s trails, while others opt for a tranquil boat ride. For those seeking a bit more adventure, consider kayaking or canoeing your way along the scenic waters of the Charles River.
Where to Rent Boats
The Charles River meanders through several neighborhoods in Boston, providing ample opportunities to rent kayaks and canoes at various locations.
The Esplanade, conveniently reachable via the MBTA Red Line at Charles/MGH stop, features a large park along the river, home to the famous Hatch Shell, where summer concerts and the city’s elaborate Fourth of July celebration take place. The Esplanade hosts Community Boating, allowing you to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for $45 per day from April to October. In spring and fall, operating hours are 9 a.m. on weekends and 1 p.m. on weekdays, while in summer, they begin at 3 p.m. during the week. Daily closing is 30 minutes prior to sunset at their easily accessible launch area located at 21 David G. Mugar Way.
Paddle Boston (previously known as Charles River Canoe & Kayak) offers another fantastic option, featuring kayaks, canoes, and SUPs across four locations—Boston (Allston/Brighton), Cambridge (Kendall Square), Newton (Nahanton Park and Historic Boathouse), Medford (Condon Shell), Somerville (Blessing of the Bay), and Waltham (Moody Street Dam). Rates can vary depending on the location. In 2019, they generally started at $10/hour for children and $16/hour for adults for kayaks, and $22/hour for a standard canoe accommodating 2-3 adults. Visit their website for additional details regarding other available options such as rowboats and day rates.
Where to Go and What to See
Once you’re equipped with your kayak or canoe, the river’s exploration is entirely up to you!
If you start your adventure with Community Boating along the Esplanade, expect to paddle between the Mass Ave. bridge and the Longfellow bridge, capturing stunning views of the Hatch Shell and the vibrant city skyline.
For a more extended experience with Paddle Boston starting from Allston/Brighton, you’ll enjoy a downstream paddle without challenging currents, taking in sights from renowned institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Boston University along with picturesque views of the skyline and Esplanade. You’ll discover ample stopping points along the journey, including Magazine Beach in Cambridge, located just past the B.U. Bridge.
Paddling from Kendall Square offers a scenic route past popular Boston landmarks, including the Esplanade, Hancock and Prudential Buildings, and the Museum of Science. Notably, just past the Museum of Science, you can take a breather at North Point Park, which boasts a playground for kids. A word of caution: the high dock may present challenges for some; if that’s the case, consider Nashua Street Park instead.
If you launch from Newton’s Nahanton Park, you’ll experience twelve miles of tranquil water bordered by parks, stretching from Silk Mill Dam at Upper Falls to Dedham Ave in Needham. You can stop by Hemlock Gorge (it’s advisable to steer clear of Silk Mill Dam) or explore hiking trails at Cutler Park. Across from it lies Millennium Park, featuring walking paths, fields, and picnic spots.
The Moody Street Dam in Waltham presents a delightful six-mile paddle on open waters with gentle currents. You have the option to pause at Forest Grove Park, featuring a sandy beach and short walking trails, or visit Newton’s Auburndale Park, which offers a beach along with playgrounds, ballfields, and picnic areas.
Safety on the River
Before setting out on the Charles River, it’s crucial to review the safety regulations provided by each boat rental company. All rentals necessitate the usage of life jackets, which are supplied. Additionally, each company has varying requirements regarding the minimum age for renting kayaks or canoes.
According to Community Boating, children must be at least 9 years old and 40 inches tall to accompany a parent in a boat. Paddle Boston allows children, including infants and dogs, to ride on their boats, and from six years old, children can paddle on their own provided they’re with a parent or guardian on the water.
