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Ipswich River [1]
Detail Map (55k)
Locus Map (60k)
Location: The Ipswich River is formed in Wilmington by the junction of Lubber and Maple Meadow brooks and flows easterly and northeasterly for 45 miles through the towns of Wilmington, Reading, North Reading, Middleton, Topsfield, Hamilton, and reaches the sea at Ipswich. The map indicates canoe access points in Ipswich.
Parking: At access points, but in most locations, parking is for a very limited number of cars.
Permitted: Only non-motorized boats, fishing, and swimming in certain areas..
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The Ipswich River, one of the most beautiful rivers in Massachusetts and perhaps the most canoed river on Boston’s North Shore, provides a sense of wilderness for the canoeist. The shallow, glacially-formed river passes through many swampy and wetland areas as well as uplands and offers the possibility of seeing a wide variety of birds.
The river is primarily flatwater although in the spring flood, it can run fast in certain sections and the novice canoer should be cautious. There are two dams across the river in Ipswich: Willowdale Dam and Ipswich Dam (previously known as the Sylvania Dam) in downtown Ipswich.
Be aware that most of the land along the river is privately owned and that trespassing is unlawful. Remember also that the river provides drinking water for many communities, so please carry out litter and do not pollute.
The Canoeing Map of the Ipswich River which covers the river from its beginning in Wilmington to where it flows into Ipswich Bay is available from the Ipswich River Watershed Association, Inc. The map includes a detailed description of the river as well as access points starting 32 miles upstream in Woburn.
Contact the Ipswich River Watershed Association, Inc., 218 Boston Street, Suite 204, Topsfield, MA 01983. 978-887-8404 Fax: 978 887-0389.
Public Canoe Access Points
By the Ipswich River Watershed Association
1. Willowdale Dam - Foote's Canoe Livery. Check with owner before putting in. If you have your own canoe, it is not recommended that you put in here.
2. Winthrop Street bridge. Difficult access.
3. Sylvania Dam. Access on west bank from Peatfield Street (limited public parking) or east bank by carrying 200' across town park to South main Street behind the 1640 Whipple House. Canoeists continuing to the ocean must portage 1/5 mile up South Main Street and put in on the right at Choate Bridge. Salt water begins here.
4. Ipswich Town Wharf. Boat ramp.
5. Labor-in-Vain Road. East side of bridge over Gould's Creek.
6. Little Neck. The Causeway between Great Neck and Little Neck.
