Experience the Thrill: Best Outdoor Rowing Spots in Boston for Fitness Enthusiasts
By: Sarah Lapinsky
Boston is the place to be if you are passionate about rowing! Its scenic waterways and community love for the outdoors provide the perfect backdrop for this invigorating activity. Whether you're an experienced rower looking for a new favorite spot or a beginner excited to dip your oars in the water, the city has multiple options that you are sure to love. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best spots for rowing outdoors, so you have all the knowledge you need to improve your fitness while experiencing the city’s beauty!
The Charles River
One of the most iconic and well renowned spots to row in Boston is right on the Charles River! This gorgeous waterway weaves right through Boston and Cambridge with stunning views of the espande and city skyline. The gentle current of the Charles provides the perfect stability needed to glide through the water. Additionally, there are a multitude of boat houses located right on the river itself, demonstrating the strong rowing culture present in this location. Some of these boathouses include Northeastern, Boston University, MIT, and more! Rowing clubs and programs are offered at these schools and it is often very common to see students out on the water getting in a great workout to start their day. However, the rowing community on the Charles isn’t limited to schools as there are several other programs available anyone can get involved with!
The Head of the Charles, one of the most popular rowing races in the country, is held right on the Charles River in October. This incredible race attracts rowing enthusiasts from all over the country, showing just how beloved this sport is in Boston. However, it is important to consider that with all this popularity comes a lot of activity on the water here. We recommend being mindful of your surroundings and willing to share the waters while rowing on the Charles. However, the Charles River is the most popular location for rowing in Boston for a reason, and we encourage you to get involved yourself to see what all the fuss is about!
Mystic River
The Mystic river runs between Boston (Charlestown), Chelsea, Medford, Everett, and Somerville, making this location easy to access for those in the Boston area! There are plenty of ramps along the river where you are able to easily load your boat in the water. Additionally this river hosts a variety of rowing organizations that you are able to get involved with. One option that is convenient for those in Boston is the Gentle Giant Rowing Club in Somerville. This club is a non profit organization that has a mission to bring this sport to more locals. They provide a multitude of lessons or opportunities to practice so you can take your skills to the next level.
The mystic river is a scenic, peaceful spot that is beloved by many rowing enthusiasts. Some wildlife you may spot on your morning row include osprey, kingfishers, loons, duck, geese, egrets, bitterns and heron. The water is often calm but varies depending on which section of the river you are rowing in. This makes the Mystic river a perfect place for both beginners and advanced rowers!
Boston Harbor
The Boston Harbor in the Seaport District also offers rowing activities. However, with the choppy waters and large boats in this area, this spot is not for the faint of heart. This challenging environment isn’t a great fit for beginners, so it may be best to gain more experience before attempting to row here. Another way to ensure safety while rowing in this location is to row with others. Several groups row in the Boston Harbor that are easy to join. These groups include the Boston Rowing Center, Community Boat Building, and Riverside Boat Club. If you are interested in an adventurous rowing journey and have some experience behind you, we recommend exploring Boston Harbor!
Jamaica Pond
Jamaica Plain, a neighborhood right outside Boston, is home to a pond large enough to row in! While this option certainly is on the smaller side, it offers a great quiet space for a peaceful rowing session. The gorgeous natural scenery offers a nice escape from the city while also being incredibly accessible to those in Boston. A historic boathouse provides rentals for rowboats and kayaks as well. This makes this spot a great place for beginners to get out on the water with the small size, calm environment, and rental availability.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful morning on the water or to take your rowing skills to the next level with a more intense workout, Boston's outdoor rowing scene has something for everyone. The city’s vibrant rowing community, coupled with stunning city views, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to embrace the excitement of rowing. So grab your gear and head out the door to one of these highly recommended spots; each stroke will take you one step closer to a healthier, more energetic you!
