Access Site Updates

The new launch on the Woonasquatucket River was built thanks to efforts of the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) as part of the organization’s Greenway Project along the River. Partial support for the launch came from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Sport Fish Restoration Program Boating Access Fund administered through the RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife.

The name Woonasquatucket (woon-AHS-kwa-tuk-it) is a Native American name meaning “the place where the saltwater ends,” referring to the meeting of the river and the sea. In fact, the river remains tidal well past the Providence Place Mall with significant daily tidal fluctuations occurring along the stretch of river that parallels Promenade Street and Kinsley Avenue. Because of these fluctuations, boaters should plan ahead, as the highest tides of the month can make bridge passages challenging while moon tides can leave very shallow water upstream of the mall.

In addition to the new launch on Kinsley Ave, additional boating opportunities exist 1.5 miles downstream in the heart of the city. Launch your own craft at South Main Street or rent a boat from Providence Kayaks at Dyer Street Landing.

Kayaking the Providence River upstream into the Woonasquatucket carries you below street level, tucked away from the city’s rush as you glide past Waterplace Park’s granite walls and under the mall, where the urban energy feels worlds away. Emerging from the tunnel, the scene softens into lush greenery, and with luck, a great blue heron stands watch along the quiet shoreline. Paddling along Promenade Street feels like drifting through northern New England, the striking shift from cityscape to nature unfolding while you remain in the heart of Providence, an experience you simply have to see for yourself.