The East River of Pictou is a Canadian river located in Pictou County, Nova Scotia, flowing approximately 57 kilometres (35 miles) before emptying into Pictou Harbour, a sub-basin of the Northumberland Strait. The river drains a basin of roughly 547 square kilometres (211 square miles). The mouth of the river sits at sea level at coordinates 45°39′38″N, 62°42′15″W.

The river passes through the town of New Glasgow, which serves as the primary hub for paddlers accessing the water. Two launch points are available in New Glasgow: one within Rotary Park and a newer accessible launch situated at Glasgow Square Theatre (155 Riverside Parkway). The Glasgow Square launch features an EZ Launch One-Way Accessible Canoe and Kayak Launch, including a dock and ramp at the base of the gangway, making it suitable for paddlers of varying physical abilities. The Rotary Park location offers ample parking. The accessible launch is available from spring through fall, weather permitting.

The river is characterized as up to Class II, making it appropriate for canoeing and kayaking without requiring advanced whitewater skills. A trip report describes a spring paddle on the river as a pleasant day outing, with conditions comfortable enough for light clothing once the sun was out, suggesting the river can be paddled in early spring even when snow remains on the ground.

The river supports populations of brook trout, brown trout, and sea trout, which may be of interest to paddlers who also fish. The river flows through Pictou County, a region with historical and cultural connections to the Pictou Landing First Nation and associated communities including Fisher's Grant and Merigomish Harbour.

Recommended day trip routes center on New Glasgow, with the Rotary Park and Glasgow Square Theatre locations serving as practical put-in points. Community members also suggest exploring the river from these access points, with Grant Lake mentioned as an additional destination for those looking to extend their paddling in the broader area.