Despite its close proximity to lots of urban development, multiple major roadways, and a large chemical plant, the Salem River is a pleasant surprise that offers visitors a scenic and enjoyable paddle. The river travels through a mix of wooded, marshland, and swampland terrain with very few structures along the way. The first mile or so of the run below Rte. 620 is fairly narrow and prone to deadfall and natural obstructions but this does not last for long as the river quickly widens.