Musquash Paddle

By ACAP Saint John

Overview

Join us to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Musquash Estuary Marine Protected Area (MPA) with a guided paddle down the Musquash River.

Join us to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Musquash Estuary Marine Protected Area (MPA) with a guided paddle down the Musquash River. Established by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the Musquash Estuary MPA was created to safeguard one of the Bay of Fundy’s most unique and productive estuarine ecosystems. As we paddle, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this protected area up close - taking in its diverse habitats, rich wildlife, and dynamic tidal landscapes that make the Musquash River a truly special place to explore.

The paddle

Starting at Shipyard Rd, participants will follow the tidal flow down the Musquash River towards the Bay. There will be a take out at Five Fathom Hole for all canoes, and those paddling kayaks not suited to cross the open Bay to Black Beach. For those paddling sea kayaks, it will also be the take out spot if conditions are deemed unfavourable to continue to cross the open Bay to Black Beach.

In Step Adventures will be guiding groups of 10 participants through the paddle to make sure everyone is safe and comfortable on the water. There will be stops along the way to learn more about the marine protected area and the on-going work of many groups. (and to give your arms a little break!).

Launching

Groups of 10 people will launch from Shipyard Rd. Participants will be grouped based on boat type and experience. Look out for our email closer to the event for your launch time!

Transportation

Since we will be launching and ending in two different places, a shuttle will be available to bring you back to your vehicle. Placing a vehicle at the launch and end points is also an option if car pooling with others for the day.

BBQ

BBQ and social for all participants at Black Beach post paddle!

Want to bring your own boat?

For this event, we are accepting canoes and sea kayaks (min. 14ft Sea Kayak with a bulkhead)only due to safety concerns. All boats must have proper Transport Canada safety gear. Got questions about safety gear or if your boat is suitable? Please reach out to the team, and we will make sure you are all set.

WHAT TO BRING?

Big Idea: Dress in Layers & Stay Versatile!

When exploring the Maritimes, it’s common to experience multiple weather systems in a single day—cool mornings, unexpected rain, hot sun, and wind can all show up with little notice. While we always check the weather and won’t head out if conditions are unsafe or extreme, it’s important to remember that temperatures and wind can vary significantly between the forest, the coast, and open water. Layering is key.

Checklist:

• Footwear: Be prepared to get wet. It is certain that your feet will get wet getting in and out of your kayak, and your clothes will get wet from splashes and paddle drippings. Bring dry shoes for after paddle comfort.
• Hat and/or sunscreen
• Jacket for wind or rain
• Day Pack or Dry Bag: For carrying your snacks, jacket, and any extra layers.
• Water Bottle: Recommend two 750+ml bottles filled with fresh drinking water: 1 for enroute, and 1 to store in your pack for later.
• Note: To minimize waste, we will not have single-use plastic bottles available. We do have reusable bottles for sale if needed, that we will fill for you before departure @ $7ea.
• Waterproof bag for electronics: A simple Ziploc bag will do!
• Change of clothes
• Bathing suit & towel (if you’re into a post paddle dip!)
• Appetite! Post Kayak BBQ at Black Beach after the event - We hope you’ll stick around for some chatting, food and fun!