2026 Wescustogo Paddle

Join us for Royal River Conservation Trust's Fourth Annual Wescustogo Paddle on Saturday, June 6th!

Dust off your canoe or kayak and join us for scenic and leisurely canoe/kayak trip down the Royal River! This group paddle is perfect for both novice and experienced paddlers. The route winds through stretches of conserved riverbank, offering beautiful views and a peaceful paddle.

Paddle Options:

Wescustogo Park to Route 9 Boat Launch (3 miles) – Launch at 10:00 AM

 Route 9 Boat Launch to Yarmouth Historical Society (5 miles) - Re-launch at 12:15 PM

 Full Route: Wescustogo Park to Yarmouth Historical Society (8 miles) - 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Return shuttle coordination will be available.

From 11:15 am to 12:15 pm, we will gather at the Route 9 Boat Launch for a "midway" stop with refreshments, camaraderie, and brief remarks. Boaters can choose to part ways here or re-launch and continue to the Yarmouth Historical Society at 118 E Elm St, Yarmouth.

REGISTRATION is required so we can plan accordingly.

Paddle Afterparty:

As an added benefit to this year's paddle, Brickyard Hollow is having a Royal River Celebration Block Party, RIVERFEST at from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm across from Cleaves Street on the Town Green.

There will be live music, a cornhole competition, and frisbee on the Town Green. Brickyard Hollow's Tap Truck will be pouring their new "Upstream" beer, created to support Royal River Restoration initiatives.

FAQs

What if I don’t own a boat?

RRCT will have access to a limited number of additional canoes/paddles/life jackets and will be happy to coordinate with you ahead of time. Please indicate on the registration form if you don't have a boat.

How do I get back to my car?

The best way would be to leave a ‘shuttle’ vehicle where you will be coming off the river (at the Route 9 boat launch or Yarmouth Historical Society).  RRCT will also provide a shuttle service if you need help getting back to your car. Please indicate on the registration form if you need a ride back to Wescustogo Park.

What should I expect?

The company of other boaters enjoying a day on the river! The river is slow-flowing and while previous canoe/kayak experience is helpful this is a great way to test out your boating skills.

What does this cost?

Nothing! This event is free, but registration is required so we can plan accordingly.

Can I just watch?

Yes, there will be a gathering from 10:15 am to 11:15 am at the Route 9 Boat Launch where you can meet up with the boaters during their ‘mid-way’ stopping point and enjoy complementary snacks and drinks.

Can I just bring an inner tube?

We’re not going to stop you but a self-propelled craft will get you downstream much quicker (and drier…and warmer). Paddleboards welcome for experienced users.

What should I bring?

At the very least you will want to bring sunscreen, bug repellent, water, life jackets, layers for changeable weather, and a dry bag for your personal items is always recommended.  You might also want to bring cameras and/or binoculars as there will be some fantastic birding along the way.

Do you need Volunteers?

Always.  If you are interested in lending a boat (paddles, life jackets etc.) we would love to talk with you.  We will also need help shuttling people back to their cars from the Route 9 Boat Launch and the Yarmouth Historical Society.

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