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Saco River Conditions & Weather Forecast

Saco River Tubing & Paddling Report

Saco River Conditions in Conway, NH

Please respect nature and those around you!
Plan ahead & be safe!
River Temp Level River Speed  Height  Notes
53 Medium/High 1540- 4.35- Early season conditions. Use caution.
Cold & risk of hypothermia if a capsize occurs with prolonged exposure.  Stay dry! SB to MM6/Below MM7

Trips are running quicker than average.

 As measured in Cubic Feet Per Second Conway, NH 

+ = Rising / – = Receding

 As measured in feet – Conway, NH

+ = Rising / – = Receding

 Early Season Conditions

 

Be aware that early season conditions are still prevalent on the river. This means the water levels are higher and the current is stronger than what you might expect during midsummer. Additionally, there is a significant amount of obstacles in the river and along the banks that could obstruct safe passage.  For your safety, it is crucial to steer well clear of any obstacles in the river as you approach them. We advise everyone to exercise extra caution under these current conditions.
Recommendations, Info & Tips:
  • No children under 9
  • No tubes
  • Wear you PFD! Mandatory by law this time of year.  
  • Swimming abilities, paddling or river experience may be necessary.  
  • 1:1 ratio of strong adult swimmer to weaker swimmer or younger person.
  • Use caution approaching Swans Falls. Take out river-right well above the dam.
  • Watch for and avoid debris and obstacles especially trees and limbs in the current, (strainers). 
  • Use caution entering and exiting the river, especially watch your footing on stairs and docking systems.  
  • No overnight trips beyond Walker’s Bridge. There is a large & potentially dangerous obstruction around Marker 13 near Brownfield.

Use this information only as a guide.  River conditions are always changing.  Hazards exist.  Know weather and river conditions before making a decision to go on the river. Updated river flow statistics at USGS Saco River

Practice No Trace Principles – Plan ahead and prepare; travel and camp on durable surfaces; dispose of waste properly; leave what you find; minimize campfire impacts; respect wildlife; and be considerate of other visitors.

Saco River Valley & Conway, NH WEATHER

Why Saco Bound has the best Saco River Tubing & family trip…

Saco Bound operates on a section of river that is perfect for tubing and family trips.  It’s hard to steer a effectively tube.  So, obstacles like rocks and trees can be a problem.  Our section of the Saco has very few obstacles, especially our 3 mile trip from Saco Bound, (Putin #1) to Weston’s Beach.  This section also “holds” water better and has a reliable flow when the river is at its lowest. Safety, professional service and private, riverside properties further enhance the experience.  So, come tubing with us! We offer the most and very best tube trip on the Saco!  

Saco River Conditions Guide – from Redstone/Saco Bound, NH through Fryeburg, Maine

Level Low  Summer Medium High Very High
Cubic Feet Per Second Below 200 CFS 200 to 1,200 CFS 1,200 to 3,000 CFS 3,000 to 4,000 CFS Over 4,000 CFS
Appx Paddle Times (canoes & kayaks) 1 to 2 MPH Max 2 to 3 MPH 3 to 4 MPH 4 MPH +
Appx Float Times (tubes) Less than 1 MPH Around 1 or 2 MPH
Conditions Slow conditions.  May hit bottom or some waking.  Still mostly passable, however.   Many beaches and easy paddling conditions. Great for Tubing! Most typical in July & August. Good for canoe & kayaks.  Some Sections Too fast for Tubing.  Swimming skills necessary.  Use extra caution with young kids. Swift current, experience necessary.  Not recommended for kids or non-swimmers. Potentially Dangerous Conditions

Please Respect Nature & Leave NO Trace

Wear your PDF  • Know Before You Go • Use This Report Only as a Guide • River Conditions Can Change • Respect Other River Users

Weather Links & Other River Info: