Access Site
MA
Merrimack River (Methuen)
City: Methuen, MA
County: Essex County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 42.70306356, -71.21299056
Air Temp: --
Location
Interactive access map
Loads when you reach this section.
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Merrimack River
3 runsDifficulty 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
Downstream from here Upstream from here
III
Upstream from here (8.2 mi from take-out)
Pawtucket Run
0.8 mi
I-II+(III)
Upstream from here (23.2 mi from take-out)
6) Amoskeag Falls to Goffs Falls (Crack Pipe, 293 Wave)
5.1 mi
4 ft/mi
I
Upstream from here (41.2 mi from take-out)
1) Franklin to Concord
24.0 mi
5 ft/mi
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
This fully accessible boat ramp on the Merrimack River in Methuen provides convenient put-in access near the intersection of Riverside Drive and Lowell Boulevard (Route 110). The facility is designed for both fishing and recreational boating, offering a dedicated platform for launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats. Parking is available above the ramp gates with no launch fee required.
The Merrimack River in this section is known for diverse fishing opportunities including largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, walleye, and crappie. The area has historical significance as the site of Reeds Ferry, one of two Colonial-era ferries that operated in the region. Paddlers can access the scenic Merrimack River system, including opportunities to explore both developed sections and wilder upstream segments toward New Hampshire.
**Note:** Check current seasonal status before planning your visit, as this ramp has experienced seasonal closures. The site is part of the broader Essex National Heritage Area and provides easy access to one of Massachusetts' major waterways for day trips and recreational paddling.
The Merrimack River in this section is known for diverse fishing opportunities including largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, walleye, and crappie. The area has historical significance as the site of Reeds Ferry, one of two Colonial-era ferries that operated in the region. Paddlers can access the scenic Merrimack River system, including opportunities to explore both developed sections and wilder upstream segments toward New Hampshire.
**Note:** Check current seasonal status before planning your visit, as this ramp has experienced seasonal closures. The site is part of the broader Essex National Heritage Area and provides easy access to one of Massachusetts' major waterways for day trips and recreational paddling.
Nearby Recreation Areas
Essex National Heritage Area
Located within
Lowell National Historical Park
Located within