Take Out

This take-out site on the Saco River in Bartlett, New Hampshire provides access to one of the Northeast's most popular whitewater paddling destinations. The Saco River is a large river system with a total length of nearly 136 miles and significant elevation drop that creates dynamic water conditions suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The average gradient of 13.6 feet per mile and flow rate of approximately 3,523 cubic feet per second indicate this section experiences moving water with consistent current and potential for rapids.

The take-out location at Bartlett sits in Carroll County and serves as an exit point for paddlers completing sections of the Saco River. This area receives substantial whitewater traffic, particularly during spring snowmelt and after heavy rainfall when water levels rise. The river's stream order classification of 7 indicates a mature, well-developed river system with established channels and established paddling routes.

Paddlers using this take-out should be prepared for cool water temperatures typical of New Hampshire rivers and should have appropriate skills for whitewater conditions. The Saco River flows generally eastward toward the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 136 miles downstream from this access point. Local conditions vary seasonally, with higher water volumes in spring months and lower, potentially more technical conditions in summer and fall.