Shawsheen Pines - Sanborn Reservation (Tewksbury)
The Shawsheen Pines Conservation Area on Lowell Junction Road (across from Pfizer) is the best access point for paddling in Andover sections above the Ballardvale dam. This location offers parking and access for both downstream and upstream paddling options.
Upstream:
Map (PDF):
This map is available to assist in paddling this area. Print on 11" x 14" stock (legal size).
Upstream:
- 1.0 river miles through a winding meadow above Rt 93.
- Family friendly paddling at both low and high water levels.
- Scouted and maintained by Shawsheen Greenway.
- Paddle under the Rt 93 overpass immediately upstream from the launch site to the Tewksbury town line at the overhead high-voltage power lines. You pass by the AVIS Sanborn Reservation and Andover Conservation Lightning Tree Reservation areas. There are take-out options at the Reservation areas for hiking or picnicking but no convenient put-in access there.
- Depending on water levels and potential obstacles (downed trees), it is possible to travel farther upstream to just below Mill Street in Tewksbury (approx. 2.2 mi) until you reach a difficult narrow, fast water section.
Map (PDF):
This map is available to assist in paddling this area. Print on 11" x 14" stock (legal size).