Ever wondered where you can paddle through history, spot rare wildlife, and connect with nature-loving locals all in one place? Welcome to Concord, New Hampshire – a kayaker’s paradise hiding in plain sight. This charming city offers beautiful rivers, peaceful parks, and a friendly community that loves the outdoors. Let’s explore Concord’s best kayaking spots and learn some helpful tips for your adventure.
Key Takeaways
– Concord, New Hampshire, is a great place for kayaking with beautiful rivers and parks.
– The Merrimack River offers calm waters and is perfect for families and new paddlers.
– The best time to kayak on the Merrimack River is between May and October to see lots of plants and animals.
– The Contoocook River provides a more challenging 9-mile kayaking trip with lots of wildlife.
– White Park in Concord is a nice place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities on land.
– Contoocook Canoe Co. rents kayaks and provides transportation for your kayaking trips.
– Safety is important; always bring life jackets, sunscreen, and water.
– The Concord Farmers Market is a good place to find local gear and fresh food for your trip.
– Concord offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a friendly outdoor community.
The Merrimack River: A Peaceful City Escape
The Merrimack River flows gently through Concord, creating a beautiful place for kayaking. The river’s calm waters and green surroundings are a peaceful break from busy city life. It’s great for new and experienced paddlers. As you paddle along the Merrimack, you’ll see Concord’s natural beauty from a new angle. The quiet atmosphere is perfect for families wanting to teach their kids about kayaking. For those seeking a more extended getaway, Spacious Skies French Pond, a family-friendly campground in nearby Henniker, offers a serene natural retreat with opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
For the best kayaking on the Merrimack, plan your trip between May and October. The weather is nicest during these months, and you’ll see lots of plants and animals. Watch for different kinds of birds that live near the river.
The Contoocook River: A Wildlife Adventure
If you want more excitement, try the Contoocook River. It offers a fun 9-mile trip from Contoocook Village to Concord. This river has lots of trees along its banks and fallen logs in the water, making it more challenging and interesting for paddlers. As you kayak down the Contoocook, you’ll feel far away from the city. The high riverbanks and quiet surroundings help you enjoy nature fully.
Keep your eyes open for the many animals that live here. You might see Canada Geese swimming, a Blue Heron fishing, or even a bald eagle flying overhead. The Contoocook River is great for animal lovers. The NH Fish and Game Department has a list of animals you might see, which can help you identify the creatures you spot while kayaking.
White Park: A Nature Lover’s Retreat
White Park in Concord is a great place to take a break from kayaking and enjoy some time on land. This big park has beautiful trails and open fields where you can walk, run, or just relax. You can have a picnic on the grass or play frisbee with friends and family. The park’s natural beauty makes it a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city.
White Park was created in 1884 by Armenia White to remember her husband Nathaniel. The park’s design, finished in 1888 by Charles Elliott, is still loved by visitors today. White Park now has modern features like a baseball field and an ice skating rink, so people can enjoy it all year round. The City of Concord’s website shares more info about what you can do at the park and any special events happening there. It’s a great place to visit before or after your kayaking trip to fully enjoy Concord’s outdoor spaces.
Local DIY Gear Tips and Resources
If you need gear for your Concord kayaking trip, there are great places to help you. The Contoocook Canoe Co. at 9 Horse Hill Rd rents kayaks and helps with transportation. You can rent a two-person kayak for $30, and they’ll take you to where you start your trip. People really like Contoocook Canoe Co. Trip Advisor reviews say they’re friendly and well-organized. They rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, and offer rides to the river.
Safety is very important when kayaking. Always listen to safety tips before you start. Contoocook Canoe Co. gives helpful advice and helps you get your kayak in the water. Remember to bring life jackets, sunscreen, and lots of water. For longer trips, bring portable chairs. They make resting more comfortable and let you enjoy the scenery while taking a break. Summer is great for family trips, with chances to swim at Daisy Beach. For a shorter trip, start at Contoocook Canoe Co. and paddle to Daisy Beach. Fall is beautiful for kayaking, with colorful trees along the river. The water moves slowly in fall, making it easy to explore.
Don’t miss the Concord Farmers Market on Saturdays. It’s where outdoor lovers and locals meet to support farmers and artists. You can find local gear, fresh food for your trip, and get advice from experienced kayakers. The market’s website shows what you can buy there each season.
Concord, New Hampshire, is a hidden gem for kayakers and outdoor lovers. From the peaceful Merrimack River to the wildlife-rich Contoocook River and the historic White Park, this charming city offers many ways to enjoy nature. Whether you’re an expert paddler or just starting out, Concord has everything you need for a great outdoor adventure.
As you plan your next kayaking adventure, remember that Concord’s rivers and parks offer more than just beautiful scenery. They provide a chance to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and become part of a community that cherishes the outdoors. Whether you’re gliding down the Merrimack, navigating the Contoocook, or relaxing in White Park, Concord’s natural wonders are waiting to be explored. So grab your paddle, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let Concord’s hidden treasures become your new favorite kayaking destination. And for those looking to extend their outdoor experience, consider a stay at Spacious Skies French Pond, where you can continue your water adventures on French Pond and enjoy the serene natural beauty of New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to go kayaking on the Merrimack River?
A: The best time to go kayaking on the Merrimack River is between May and October.
Q: Where can I rent kayaks in Concord?
A: You can rent kayaks at the Contoocook Canoe Co. located at 9 Horse Hill Rd.
Q: What wildlife might I see while kayaking on the Contoocook River?
A: You might see Canada Geese, Blue Herons, bald eagles, and many other types of birds and animals.
Q: What activities can I do at White Park in Concord?
A: At White Park, you can walk, run, relax, have a picnic, play frisbee, and enjoy the park’s trails and open fields.
Q: What safety items should I bring while kayaking?
A: You should bring life jackets, sunscreen, lots of water, and portable chairs for longer trips.
Q: When is the Concord Farmers Market held?
A: The Concord Farmers Market is held on Saturdays.