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Access Site MA

Charles River

Charles River

Source: massachusetts_department_of_fish_and_game Updated 1 year ago

City: Waltham, MA
County: Middlesex County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 42.36269777, -71.24495156
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Whitewater Runs on Charles River
2 runs
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
This public boat ramp in Waltham provides convenient access to the Charles River for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorboats. Located in central Massachusetts, the ramp serves as a good launching point for exploring this popular urban waterway. The site offers roadside parking and can accommodate small trailers, making it accessible for paddlers with various skill levels and boat types.

The Charles River in this section flows through the greater Boston area and offers opportunities for recreational paddling, fishing, and boating. Be aware that the river passes through several communities, so expect occasional motorboat traffic and plan your paddling accordingly. From this Waltham launch point, paddlers can explore multiple sections of the river, though trip planning should account for current conditions and any portages around locks or dams downstream.

*Note: The nearby Hartwell Tavern Visitor Center (part of Minute Man National Historical Park) is open seasonally June–October and can provide additional information about the area. For specific details about current conditions, fees, hours, and amenities at this access point, contact the managing agency directly.*
Federal Facility Information
(978) 36-9 6993 Free Access

Hartwell Tavern is open seasonally on select dates between June and October each year.

Nearby Recreation Areas
Adams National Historical Park Located within
Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge Located within
Charles River Located within
Longfellow House Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site Located within