Paddling NB

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Exploring New Brunswick One Paddling Route at a Time

Kennedy Lakes Natural Protected Area

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Queenstown Wharf to Lower Musquash Island

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Quick Facts

Features river, wildlife
Access boat launch
Route Difficulty moderate
Water Body Type river
Current Type minimal
Route Type linear
Route Distance 9.5 km return
Portage Distance none
Estimated Time 4-5 hours
Elevation Change 5 metres
Scenery Rating beautiful
Cell Reception minimal
Fees none

Description

The Lower Musquash Island Route take you straight along the top of Long Island. This takes you out to the main channel of the Wolostoq (St. John) River. You will find the most boat traffic in this main channel. Be cautious of their wakes. They are sometimes larger boats, and you don’t want to swamp your boat.

Resting with my kayak on the point of Long Island

After passing by the sandy point of Long Island, you will see the shores of Lower Musquash Island across the main channel. The lake in the middle of this large island was my goal for the day. I crossed the main river and turned right, making my way down along the shore. Beautiful hardwoods line the island. Eventually I came to a channel on the left that feeds the lake. The channel is surrounded by mostly grasslands. On my visit I passed a flock of black ducks, a family of beavers, and saw several large eagles. When I got into the lake, I was amazed to see the shallow waters rippling with what I later learned were spawning Blueback Herring. You can watch the video from my adventure here.

Wind and motorboat traffic are the biggest hazards you will run into in this area. I would choose either Otnabog Lake or the channel along Long Island if wind is an issue. Both options are more protected. They also have less boat traffic and the boat traffic they do have tends to be smaller. These would be much better options if you have kids with you.

Eagle on a branch over the Wolastoq (St. Johh) River near the Queenstown Wharf

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Directions

For directions to Queenstown Wharf, go to the Queenstown Wharf page. The boat launch is next to the wharf on the right.

Sitting on the Queenstown Wharf before my paddle

Gallery

Queenstown Wharf to Lower Musquash Island Route Gallery

Trail Last Hiked: May 26, 2024.

Page Last Updated: December 26, 2024.