From the Passiac’s headwaters in the Great Swamp to its terminus in the Newark Bay the Passaic and its tributaries offer miles of paddling from urban flatwater to some of the most challenging whitewater in New Jersey.
Paddling (or rowing) the Passaic is a great way to experience the river and escape into the wilds or see the Passiac’s cities from a different perspective.
The Passaic River Coalition has partnered with and recommends a number of area paddling clubs.
Paddling is a risk sport, and though much of the Passaic can be paddled with basic skills, equipment and of course a life jacket, paddling with a club or experienced group or agency is safer and a great way to learn about the myriad of opportunities in the Passaic watershed and beyond.
Hackensack River Canoe and Kayak Club often does trips on the Passaic and offers a variety of flatwater and fasterwater trips in the area.
The Kayak and Canoe Club of New York is the area’s largest and oldest whitewater paddling club and often paddles the Pequonnock thru Butler and other whitewater rivers in the area. In additional, they offer winter pool sessions only a mile from the Passaic in Garfield to learn the maneuvers and the eskimo roll and have loaner whitewater gear available.
Located a bit further west, the Mohawk Canoe Club also offers a variety of flat and fastwater canoe and kayak trips.
River of God Paddling /Urban Wilderness in Paterson offers kayaking on the Passaic River at various locations for first-timers and recreational enthusiasts.
Rentals
Flatwater Paddling Company offers kayak and stand up paddleboard (SUP) rentals and lessons in season on Monksville Reservoir and Shepherd Lake in Ringwood State Park.
Rowing On the lower Passaic River
Nereid Boat Club, established in Rutherford in 1862, continues it competitive rowing traditions for beginners in middle school through adults of all ages.
Passaic River Rowing Association (PRRA) in Lyndhurst offers rowing to all ages and skill levels with various programs for youth up through adults and from beginners up through competitive rowers.
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