Contoocook River
Hillsborough / Merrimack Co. · 80 mi · Class I–II
—CFS
Loading…Optimal: 200–1200 CFS · USGS #01089000
Length
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Optimal
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Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
New Hampshire Rivers Management Program · Covered Bridge Scenic Byway
Central New Hampshire's classic canoe river flows 80 miles through covered bridge country from Jaffrey to the Merrimack. The Contoocook passes through quintessential New England — white steepled churches, stone walls, and eight covered bridges including the last remaining Contoocook Railroad Bridge. Gentle Class I–II water perfect for family paddling.
Trip sections
Jaffrey to Peterborough — Class I, upper headwaters
Peterborough to Henniker — Class I–II, covered bridge corridor
Henniker to Penacook — Class I, lower river to Merrimack confluence
Outfitters
Contoocook River Canoe Company
Canoe and kayak rentals, Henniker NH
72-Hour Flow Forecast
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.