Although New England’s most prominent river, the Charles River, flows right through Wellesley, it can be easy for residents to forget all about the 3.9-mile section that winds from the South Natick line to Wellesley Hills. In all, the Charles glides 80 miles from its starting point in Hopkinton, Mass. to its eventual merger with Boston Harbor.
It does so on a stealth path through Wellesley. No main driving thoroughfares in town move along the river’s path. And the Charles can be so narrow in certain sections that it might be mistaken for a stream.
Getting to know the river is well worth it, however. You just have to know a few access points to open up this wonderful resource and connection to the natural world.
Canoeing/Kayaking
A good launch site for your small watercraft is at Elm Bank Reservation located at 900 Washington St., Wellesley. Take the paved road about 3/4 of the way around and look for the clearly marked canoe launch sign.
It’s bring your own boat here, and we recommend that you stick to non-motorized crafts. We’ve seen motorboats put in at Elm Bank, and as far as we know there’s no rule against doing so. But the river is generally quite low here, spiking in depth only in early spring and sometimes fall after heavy rains.
Cross country skiing, hiking along the Charles River
Elm Bank Reservation also offers a lovely, wide path that goes along the Charles River. Walkers, cross country skiers, and cyclists in the know love this peaceful, generally uncrowded stretch. Follow the paved road. When you pass the second of two darling cottages on the Elm Bank property, look for the small parking lot. The lot is available to Elm Bank visitors.
Also, try out this hike that includes the Waban Arches and Sudbury Aqueduct
Picnicking on the Charles River
On the Wellesley/Newton line on River St. in Wellesley there are a couple of picnic tables and benches available for dining with a view. Pick up sandwiches, soups, and salads from Express Gourmet across the street (11 River St.); or an amazing roast beef sandwich at nearby Mark’s Pizza & Subs of Wellesley (10B Washington St./Rte. 16 east.
