The Peconic River ,
Riverhead Long Island

The Peconic River is Long Island's largest river and is also one of its most ecologically diverse. Originating mid-island, the river flows eastward until, fifteen miles from the source, it empties into the bay. A canoe trip down this shallow, slow-moving river is a relaxing eight mile, three-hour tour.

Turtles, muskrats and birds can be seen in the swamps of water willow with tiny pink blossoms. Phragmites reeds are abundant along the shores. Swans, geese and ducks can be seen as you canoe around the bends of the channel.

As you paddle eastward, the river widens where this section of the river was dammed at three locations to permit cultivation of cranberries.

Put in at the Peconic Paddlers on Peconic Avenue in Riverhead. They offer a variety of canoe rental packages and free basic instruction. No experience is necessary.