There’s no shortage of ways to explore the MetroWest by the water. There are rivers, ponds and lakes sprinkled throughout the area, and shops offering up boat, kayak, canoe and paddle-board rentals. When the weather cooperates, take a chance, and explore a new sport!

Boston Boat Rentals is located in Cochituate State Park and Hopkinton State Park. They offer lessons, camps and rentals for families to have fun out on the water. Eastern Mountain Sports has a kayak school at Hopkinton State Park, and Charles River Canoe and Kayak in Newton has a variety of trips and rental packages to choose from. 

Families who own their own boats can explore nature and get to know the area from launches across the MetroWest. White Hall Boat Launch in Hopkinton, Ashland State Park Boat Launch and Farm Pond Boat Launch in Framingham are all easy and accessible. Additionally, Pleasure Point Boat Launch in Holliston and Rose Donahue Boat Launch in Framingham can be fun for weekend exploring; Stoddard Park Cartop Boat Launch in Holliston and Wayland Town Ramp are best left to kayakers. These spots are wonderful to explore in the fall, where locals know the spectacular foliage reflects on the bluest of waters. 

Paddling down the Sudbury River can be difficult for beginners. Check out sites like paddling.com or sudbury-assabet-concord.org to familiarize yourself with the river and its path before your first adventure out.