The Connecticut River, known by the Algonquian here as Quinihtukqut, meaning “Land of the Long Tidal River,” flows between forested hills and fertile farmland in this scenic reach. This quiet section, well away from major highways, passes through the French King Gorge and by Mount Sugarloaf. Below Turners Falls are a series of lively Class…
Lyman Falls is a special property located on a scenic stretch of the upper Connecticut River. Both sides of the river here have been conserved by the Vermont River Conservancy. On river right is Lyman Falls State Park, which hosts three campsites for paddlers. On river left is land now owned by the town of…
The picturesque town of Guildhall, Vermont, makes a great starting point for a Connecticut River trip. Put in below the breached Wyoming Dam, on a portage trail improved by a North Woods youth crew. River banks are largely forested here, and wildlife abounds. Keep your eye out for mergansers – and perhaps moose lurking in…
Seldon Neck State Park is a very scenic island located near the river’s mouth. Four official campsites (Cedar Camp Area, https://www.connecticutriverpaddlerstrail.org/node/1462 >Hogback Camp Area, Springledge,and Quarry Knob are easily accessible and make for great basecamps from which to explore the river. Consider circumnavigating the island, or paddling up a bay to the town of Lyme….
Hurd State Park is a scenic and varied state park nestled in a quiet section of the Connecticut River. It is an easy and scenic seven mile paddle from Middleton’s Harbor Park. Paddlers seeking a longer (20 mile) paddle can launch from the Town of Glastonbury’s Riverfront Park. You’ll pass through a section of the…
This is an easy 2-3 day family paddle with great sights, swimming and campsites. There are a couple access points in Woodsville, including a small launch below the bridge, and an access in the community ball fields. This is a wide, lovely valley to paddle in. There are several camping options, most provided by the…
It may be more of a drive from “down south” than other sections of the river, but a north country paddle rewards paddlers with great fishing, mountain vistas, and plenty of peace and solitude. The classic start is Canaan, where a large parking area and improved launch has been developed for paddlers. But if you…
