One of the most beautiful of New England’s landscapes is surely the tidal salt marsh, a living and constantly changing ecosystem where sea life begins and find nourishment.
Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center on the southern Maine coast offers canoe and kayak rentals through Labor Day, September 7, 2020. Come take a self-guided paddling tour of the meandering Dunstan River to explore the unique habitat of the salt marsh.
This giant estuary is composed of tidal marsh, salt creeks, freshwater marsh, and uplands. Wildlife rely on the marsh as a place for resting, breeding, and feeding.
Reservations for rentals are required. Scarborough Marsh, at 92 Pine Point Road in Scarborough, can be reached through its website at maineaudubon.org/canoe (must reserve at least 24 hours in advance). For same-day rentals, please call 207-883-5100. Map.
To keep everyone safe, Maine requires out-of-state visitors to self-quarantine in Maine for 14 days before interacting with others or have proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Certain states are exempt; please check the Maine CDC website for updates.
When you visit with plans to get out on the water, please bring your own life jacket. The marsh managers have life jacket vests available for sale while supplies last. It is always a good idea to bring a full water bottle (there is no running water on site), bug repellent and sunscreen. No indoor rest rooms; only a Porta-Potty is available.
More information on canoe and kayak rentals: Hours are 9 a.m.to 4 p.m., and the last boat has to be back by 5 p.m. Cost is $20 for an hour; $28 for and hour and a half; $35 for two hours ($45 maximum)
At least one person in your group must be 18 years or older. Children must be at least 4 years old. Dogs are not permitted in the boats.
Do you love to hike? Make your way to these beautiful trails on the property:
View the Scarborough Marsh trail map on Maine Trail Finder.
Scarborough Marsh Nature Trail
Scarborough Marsh Nature Trail – French
Scarborough Marsh Scavenger Hunt Guide
Scarborough Marsh Scavenger Hunt Guide – French
