Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle
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Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle
The Mystic River Watershed Association presents the 30th annual Mystic River Herring Run and Paddle on May 17, 2026. The event takes place at the DCR Blessing of the Bay Boathouse, 32 Shore Drive, Somerville, MA. It celebrates the annual return of river herring and supports the Mystic River watershed.
Participants can run, walk, and paddle in several organized distances. Boat dropoff is available in the boathouse parking lot, but that lot is not available for parking. Street parking and a courthouse lot about 0.5 miles away are noted in event information. Boat rental and delivery options are offered by local outfitters for those without a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard; registrants are asked to confirm their boat class when registering.
Costs vary by registration method. Pre-registration fees are listed as $30 for either the run or paddle and $50 for both, with a later day of registration price increase. Competitors who enter both running and paddling races are eligible for the Iron Herring Award.
Additional day activities include a free, family friendly 11 mile bike ride along the Malden and Mystic Rivers with a helmet requirement, and a free mobility class led by Wellness Blueprint focusing on hip and spine mobility. Volunteer interest is collected via a form with a response deadline of May 5. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
