River Maps

Our interactive map is your all-in-one tool for exploring the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers. It features: 

VIEW IN GOOGLE MAPS

OARS 3 Rivers has crafted a collection of river trips to help paddlers enjoy the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers. These suggested routes are designed with the average paddler in mind, offering mostly roundtrip options that are manageable and enjoyable. Whenever possible, we recommend starting your paddle upstream. This approach lets you assess your ability to paddle against the current first and ensures a downstream journey when you are ready to head back.

Rivers are dynamic living systems with unique personalities and ever-changing conditions. Each section of the river offers something different, and even familiar stretches can transform dramatically based on water flow and weather. To paddle safely and enjoyably, consider the following key factors:

1. River Depth and Flow: Be mindful of how quickly and consistently the water moves
2. Water Temperature and Weather: Cooler water and changing weather can significantly affect your experience
3. Technical Features in the River to watch for:

   • Bridge Supports: These can create areas of faster or turbulent water

   • Obstructions: Dams, fallen trees, and undercut banks can pose challenges

   • Rocks: These can be submerged or visible, creating potential hazards

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil trip or something more adventurous, understanding the river’s personality and conditions will help you make the most of your paddle. Check out our Paddle Trips by River section below for detailed trip options.

For Beginners

For new paddlers, river conditions can be unpredictable. Calm water at the launch may quickly turn turbulent or fast-moving around the bend, making it harder to navigate. To stay safe, always start your trip by paddling upstream.
This lets you:

• Test your ability to handle the current before going too far
• Spot hazards like fast water or obstructions with time to adjust
• Enjoy an easier downstream return when you are more tired

Observing the river’s changing conditions and staying cautious will give you a safer, more enjoyable experience.

For Advanced Paddlers

Experienced paddlers may enjoy exploring longer trips and one-way routes. These trips require skills in:

• Trip Planning (water, weather, time, etc)
• Logistical Planning (like car shuttling) 
• River Scouting (for flow and obstructions)
• River Reading (for technical features and dangers) 
• Paddling Skills (strength/stamina, self-rescue skills) 

These skills are essential for tackling longer or one-way trips, navigating colder water or weather, and managing higher water flows.

Resources for Safe Paddling:

• USGS Current Water Data for Massachusetts
• RiverApp: River Levels & Conditions
• ACA Paddlesports Online Course
• USCG Boating Safety Laws & Training

Explore our rivers with ease by downloading our river recreation maps!

Need gear? These locations offer rentals for your next adventure:

South Bridge Boat House

Located in Concord, offering easy access to serene paddling routes

Ice House Landing Kayak Rental Station

Town of Maynard’s convenient kayak rental station

Natick Boathouse

Perfect for exploring Cochituate State Park Lake

Hopkinton State Park Reservoir
A picturesque spot for beginners and families

Help us improve our maps and your river experience!

• Notice a hazard, obstruction, or large trash item? Let us know through our Feedback Form.
• Noticed incorrect or outdated map information? Let us know through our Map Updates or Corrections Form.
• Have general questions about the maps or river recreation? Reach out via our Contact Form.
• Prefer a paper version of the map? You can request one here: Request a Paper Map.