Best Kayaking in Rhode Island

Trying to find the best kayaking in Rhode Island? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Rhode Island, Providence

02 :01 hrs
2.4 mi
27.229202 ft
I

This paddling adventure offers a nice paddle with a smooth, small current and good scenery, touted as one of the prettiest trips in Rhode Island. The shores of the river are lined with maple, ash, oak and birch. The Pawtuxet River is know for its good fishing; there are a variety of fish species, but the river is stocked with trout several times a year.

2

Rhode Island, Washington County

06 :20 hrs
14.9 mi
1.2372609 ft
I

Ninigret Pond is Rhode Islands largest coastal pond and although parts of the shore are moderately developed it offers a great paddling experience. You can expect to see a variety of different waterfowl and marsh birds, a dune barrier beach and lots of different flora, including some rare plants. Some of the vegetation that you may see include bayberry, beach plum, shadbush, dogwood, seaside goldenrod and cedar. Be apprised that although this is rated as easy there can sometimes be strong winds and tidal currents that will make this paddle a bit more difficult.

3

Rhode Island, Washington County

03 :22 hrs
8 mi
4.995104 ft
II

This paddling adventure features views of the forest and Great Swamp area as well as Worden Pond. There is a great spot for lunch at Stony Point in Worden Pond. Wildlife that you may see include deer, fox, coyotes, raccoon, osprey and turtles. Be apprised that there is a good amount of poison ivy on this trip. The poison ivy becomes almost unavoidable especially after Worden Pond, so make sure to wear gloves, a long sleeve shirt and long pants. If you would like you can just take out after Worden Pond to avoid all of this.

4

Rhode Island, Bradford

03 :05 hrs
7.2 mi
3.554822 ft
I

Pawcatuck River is wide and offers a pleasant paddle through undeveloped land along wooded shores. Beech, black gum, willow, ash, red maple, scarlet oak and white pine line the shores of this river. Wildlife that you may see on this paddling adventure include mute swan, beaver, osprey, Canada goose, cardinal, veery, catbird, chickadee, tufted titmouse, wood duck, yellow warbler and great heron. Be apprised that motor boats are allowed.

5

Rhode Island, Washington County

02 :30 hrs
5.9 mi
5.287533 ft
I

This paddling adventure features a nice marshland as you travel through Alton Pond and Wood River. The Wood River area has been touted as one of the most pristine wilderness areas in Rhode Island. There is a good amount of vegetation on display, including mountain laurel, red maple, black gum, white pine and blueberry bushes. Wildlife that you can expect to see include muskrat, great horned owl, osprey, mallard, heron, comorant, kingfisher, wood duck and otter.

6

Rhode Island, Providence County

04 :27 hrs
10.6 mi
18.174976 ft
II

This paddling adventure offers a pleasant paddle just outside of Pawtucket. The quality of the water and surrounding area has improved a lot over the last couple years. The city has also made an effort to add several more accesses so more people can enjoy the river. Be aware to take note of the three places that you will need to portage; one of the dams is pretty dangerous. Make sure to scout Pratt Dam, since the gates are often blocked with debris; it is the dangerous dam.

7

Massachusetts, Norton

07 :35 hrs
18 mi
27.149696 ft
II

The Wading River is a small stream that leaves from Barrowsville Pond, crosses MA 140, and meanders through Woodward Forest until a small side stream feeds into it and it becomes the Three Mile River. It then continues to flow south through a series of ponds until it meets up with the Taunton River. On this route you will encounter flatwater, quickwater, and Class I and Class II rapids. The scenery varies between woodlands, swamps, and small millponds. One portage is necessary at the south end of the Barrowsville Pond, one at the south end of Sheppards Factory Pond, and another at the dam just past the Spring Street Bridge.

8

Rhode Island, Washington County

02 :39 hrs
6.2 mi
2.8426037 ft
I

The shallow Green Hill Pond has many small islands, interesting creeks and rocky outcroppings. There is a variety of shoreline views which include wooded areas, summer colonies and a barrier beach on the south shore. The southern shore also has salt marshes, which makes a great environment for birds of several different species. There are several islands on the pond that are worth exploring for any who have time.

9

Rhode Island, Kent County

02 :32 hrs
3 mi
2.9990158 ft
I

This paddling adventure utilizes three different waterways for a scenic and quiet paddling experience. You will go through a broad marsh with a lot of variety by way of vegetation and waterfowl. Make sure to explore the large coves near the I-95 embankment. Flora you may encounter include fanwart, bladderwort, pickerelweed, arrowhead, fragrant waterlily, pondweed, yellow pondlily, fern, maples, alders and oak.

10

Rhode Island, Washington County

03 :15 hrs
7.7 mi
0.5722021 ft
II

Quonochontaug Pond offers a scenic saltwater paddle right next to the Westerly beaches. Some of the features of this adventure include great ocean views, wildlife, fishing, barrier beaches, coastal marsh areas and several islands where you can stop to have lunch. Wildlife that you may encounter include a variety of waterfowl including crane and heron.

See more adventures..

Explore complete list