About Hike and Paddle at Appleton & Ipswich River Watershed Association

Join staff from Appleton Farms and the Ipswich River Watershed Association for a fun and adventurous hike and paddle excursion. We’ll meet at the farm and hike over to the headquarters of IRWA, right on the Ipswich River. IRWA staff will help us get into canoes and kayaks then lead a trip down the river, into downtown Ipswich and back. This unique experience will be a wonderful way to explore the natural surroundings of Ipswich, over both land and water.

The entire program will take about four hours, including an hour hike to IRWA, two-hour paddle, and an hour hike back to Appleton. Be sure to enjoy some local beer and seasonal treats at the Farmhouse after the return hike.

This popular program sold out fast last year. Space is limited and registration is required. This is suitable for ages 14 and up and for the kayaker with some experience. The river is low this time of year and a portion of the kayaking will be against the current. All participants whould have the physical ability to paddle a kayak for a continued period of time with some floating in between.
Be sure to pack some snacks, water, extra clothes, and sunscreen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Program Refunds/Cancellations: In the event that a program is cancelled due to severe weather, low enrollment, or other circumstances, we will notify you as soon as possible by email and issue you a full refund within 14 days of the cancellation. If you cannot attend a program as planned, contact appletonfarms@thetrustees.org at least 7 days prior to the start of the program to receive a full refund or transfer to another date/class. Refunds and/or class transfers will not be granted for registration cancellations placed fewer than 7 days before the start of the program. There are no refunds for missed classes. Appleton Farms reserves the right to change program locations, schedules, or instructors when necessary.
• Where to park: Directions to the Waldingfield Lot: On 1A South, about two miles south of downtown Ipswich, you will take a right onto Waldingfield Road (if you see the main entrance to Appleton Farms, you have gone too far). The parking lot is immediately on your left. On 1A North, about four miles north of downtown Hamilton, you will pass by the main entrance to Appleton on your left. Take your next left onto Waldingfield Road and the parking lot is immediately on your left.

• Membership Lookup: Click here to find your membership number.
• Need to see an existing order? Click here to see your current orders.
• The Trustees reserves the right to photograph or video visitors and program participants for promotional use, and usage of its properties implies consent. See the full policy at thetrustees.org/photovideo
• Buy out a class/private events: Have a group that wants to take a class or program together? We have options to buy out our classes and/or create private events. Email appletonfarms@thetrustees.org for more information.
• While you’re here: Don’t forget to visit the Farm Store open daily Tuesday-Sunday.

All are welcome at Appleton Farms, we are excited to host you!

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