Shawsheen Pines - Serio's Grove - Ballardvale
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. Downstream:
This map is available to assist in paddling this area. Print on 11" x 14" stock (legal size).
- 1.8 river miles (about one hour downstream) to Andover Street through quiet sections of protected open space.
- Family friendly paddling at both low and high water levels. Scouted and maintained by Shawsheen Greenway.
- Serio’s Grove Andover Conservation Reservation is downstream on river right (about 20 minutes).
- There are picnic tables, a pavilion, and a portable toilet at this site.
- Further downstream you pass under an arched stone railroad bridge and the Pole Hill Andover Conservation Reservation and then reach the open area known as the ‘flats’. The ‘flats’ are a good area to explore in higher water and a turnaround point for returning upstream.
- Beyond the ‘flats’ a little bit farther downstream is Andover St and the Mill Pond at the Ballardvale dam.
- This section can also be started at the Mill Pond at the Ballardvale dam and run upstream. However, there is no public parking in this location.
This map is available to assist in paddling this area. Print on 11" x 14" stock (legal size).
