Kayaking the Narrow River
After a week of humid, stormy weather, we were finally in store for a sunny 75 degree day…so we loaded our kayaks to explore the Narrow River in Rhode Island.
Our first stop on the way was to the famous Allie’s Donuts in North Kingstown, RI. Don’t be surprised if the line to order is out the door, but have no fear they continue to replenish their scrumptious selection of sweets throughout the morning. TIP: Be sure to bring cash since they are a cash-only establishment.
After ordering a HUGE chocolate frosted cinnamon roll for our boys and indulging in a maple frosted and sprinkled vanilla frosted donut, we headed to The Pettaquamscutt River, also known locally as the Narrow River…a 7 mile long tidal inlet that runs from North Kingstown down to Narragansett RI. Divided into an upper and lower section, we decided to paddle the scenic salt marsh of the lower section which runs along the John H. Chaffee National Wildlife Refuge. This sheltered tidal flat is the perfect place to see wildlife, especially birds.
We launched our kayaks from the public boat launch at Sprague Bridge which has ample parking but does fill up by late morning on weekends. Once on the river, we paddled left under Sprague Bridge…if you head right, it will take you to the Narragansett Bay and its beaches where you could find dangerous waves and numerous motor boats. TIP: Check out the tidal current schedule ahead of time so you have an idea as to when low and high tide will be.
Paddling against the tide (and wind) for a few minutes, we reached quiet scenic Pettaquamscutt Cove just past the bridge to the left. This is such a peaceful cove because due to its depth, especially at low tide, there is no motor boat traffic. Once in the cove, the tide did not affect us and we easily paddled along the shore and among the sheltered narrow channels observing all the beautiful wildlife and scenery.
TIP: Be sure to wear water shoes…depending on the tide, you might have to exit your kayak to move past a sandbar and there are sharp clams and shells in the sand.
Hungry from all the paddling, we headed 5 minutes south to Monahan’s Clam Shack in Narragansett for a fresh seafood lunch with a view. TIP: There is seating on the side deck, but head to the back and you will find tables looking out to the ocean.
TIP: There is also a dairy bar at Monahan’s with amazing milkshakes!
If you have more time to spend in the area, I recommend visiting the Tilted Barn Brewery in Exeter. In addition to their large selection of on-tap beers served from a beautiful post and beam barn, it is a great place to relax while enjoying live music, their beautiful grounds and even fresh cut flowers to take home!
TIP: There are tables with umbrellas, but feel free to bring your own chairs/blankets to the brewery just in case all the tables are full.
Kayaking the Narrow River is a perfect day trip option if you want to spend time on the water surrounded by views and wildlife…next time we will venture to the upper part of the river!