North River Canal Walk
A scenic urban pathway along the canal, blending industrial history with natural views, with some sections having seasonal access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Access to hydroelectric plant segment
North River Canal Walk
Best Time
Access to hydroelectric plant segment
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic urban pathway along the canal, blending industrial history with natural views, with some sections having seasonal access.
"Very nice walk with historical industrial views."
📅 Check Water Levels
Access to the hydroelectric plant section depends on water flow. Check the website before visiting!
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenery
The walk offers a very nice experience with historical industrial views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wannalancit Mills Segment
From UML east campus to Wannalancit Mills
A consistently open and scenic stretch, perfect for a leisurely stroll with historical industrial views.
School Street Bridge Access
School Street Bridge (near McDonalds)
This bridge offers a key access point to the canal walkway, often opening up more of the path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Seasonal Access
Best Segments to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Why is the walkway across closed off?
📅 Check Water Levels
Access to the hydroelectric plant section depends on water flow. Check the website before visiting!
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenery
The walk offers a very nice experience with historical industrial views.
River walk open!!!
Merrimack Canal Walkway Open!
🐴 Remember the Past
Some visitors recall a beautiful black horse grazing in the area years ago.
Northern Canal Walkway Open Today
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Water Levels
Access to the hydroelectric plant section depends on water flow. Check the website before visiting!
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Scenery
The walk offers a very nice experience with historical industrial views.
🐴 Remember the Past
Some visitors recall a beautiful black horse grazing in the area years ago.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the North River Canal Walk to be a very nice and scenic experience, particularly the consistently open section from UML east campus to Wannalancit Mills. While access to parts of the walk, especially near the hydroelectric plant, is seasonal and dependent on water flow, the available sections offer pleasant views and a touch of local history.
"From UML east campus to Wannalancit Mills is always open, except the segment along the hydroelectric plant which is only open over the warmer months and if the flow rate of the Merrimack at that point is lower than a certain amount, as listed on the website."
Lu
"Very nice walk"
Boris Nikitin
"When I was growing up, mid to late 30's on, there was a beautiful black horse that was on that land beside the canal. He grazed and froliced on that beautiful green grass and was a pleasure to watch. I guess he must have worked for someone that had access to that area and it was, apparently, perfect for him (or her). He/she was a pleasure to see. The place looked empty when he/she was no longer there. Anyone out there remember that beautiful sight?"
Joanne Landers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points include the UML east campus and the School Street Bridge near McDonalds. The segment along the hydroelectric plant has specific access requirements.
Parking availability can vary by access point. It's recommended to check local parking regulations for the area you plan to start from.
While not explicitly stated, canal walks are often suitable for biking. However, be mindful of pedestrian traffic and any posted signage.
The main paths are generally paved and level, making them accessible. However, specific segments might have limitations due to seasonal closures or terrain.
Check local transit maps for bus routes that serve the areas around UML and Wannalancit Mills for convenient public transport access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the North River Canal Walk is generally a public access area and does not require tickets for entry.
The walk from UML east campus to Wannalancit Mills is always open. However, the segment along the hydroelectric plant is only open during warmer months and specific water flow conditions.
This segment is open during the warmer months and when the water flow rate of the Merrimack River is below a certain threshold.
It's best to check the official website for the North River Canal Walk or local park advisories for the most up-to-date information on access and closures.
There are typically no fees for accessing and walking the North River Canal Walk.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many find the walk from UML east campus to Wannalancit Mills particularly nice, offering scenic views and historical industrial architecture.
Expect a mix of industrial heritage, green spaces, and the calming presence of the canal. Some recall fond memories of the area's past.
Yes, the industrial structures and canal offer unique photographic opportunities, especially during different seasons.
Amenities can be limited. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially for longer walks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in a bit of local history, discussing the industrial past of the area can add an educational element to the walk. While the hydroelectric plant segment has access restrictions, the main path provides enough interest for a family stroll.
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers might appreciate the pockets of greenery and the calming effect of the water. While not a wilderness trail, it provides a refreshing break from urban surroundings. Be sure to check access for the hydroelectric plant segment if you're looking for a more varied route.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Access and Closures
This variability means that planning your visit, especially if you wish to explore the entire length, is crucial. Checking the official website or local advisories before heading out will help you confirm current access status and avoid disappointment. The intermittent opening of the hydroelectric plant segment adds an element of discovery for those who time their visit just right.
Travelers have noted that the School Street Bridge, near the McDonalds, serves as a significant access point that can sometimes be closed off. Its opening often signifies a more complete access to the walkway. Understanding these nuances ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the North River Canal Walk.
Historical Echoes and Natural Beauty
Beyond the industrial structures, the walk provides a pleasant environment for recreation. Some long-time residents recall a specific memory of a beautiful black horse that used to graze in the fields beside the canal, adding a touch of nostalgic charm to the area's history.
The canal itself offers a calming presence, and the surrounding greenery provides a natural contrast to the built environment. It's a place where one can appreciate both the ingenuity of past industries and the enduring beauty of the natural world.
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