The Connecticut River runs about 2 km east of downtown Northampton — close enough to reach by bicycle or a short drive. The Norwottuck Rail Trail crosses the river on a converted railroad bridge and continues east toward Amherst and Belchertown, making for excellent flat cycling. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the Elwell Recreation Area near the river.
The oxbow lakes formed by old meanders of the Connecticut at the Northampton meadows are a good spot for birdwatching in spring and autumn migration. The broad floodplain north of town is some of the best farmland in New England and remains in agricultural use.