Merrimack River

The Winnipesaukee and Pemigewasset Rivers join behind Franklin High School to make the Merrimack, which provides opportunities for paddling, fishing, swimming, and bird watching. Public access can be found behind Franklin high school (Winnipesaukee River), at the Canterbury Conservation area, and at the boat launch just north of the Merrimack County Jail in Boscawen. Note that some sections have faster-moving water and more shallower areas than others. The Boscawen section can typically provide calmer, deeper waters for paddling, but please note that conditions can vary greatly depending upon season and rainfall. Plan for a variety of possible conditions and always be observant.