Canaan to Maidstone

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 are getting a later start, consider starting at Arlin Brook, For a three day, two night trip, consider putting in at the Arlin Brook, seven miles to the south. This is an unmarked access on state owned land, across the road from the visitor center on Route 3.

From Canaan is a eleven miles through quick water to Holbrook Point, a campsite developed in 2011 by the Vermont River Conservancy, with room for about three tents. If occupied, the Columbia Meadows Campsite is a short paddle downstream. From Holbrook Point, it is a fourteen mile paddle to Lyman Falls. Adjacent to the old Lyman Falls dam, now mostly removed through an effort spearheaded by the Connecticut River Conservancy. Lyman Falls provides access to some of the finest trout fishing in New England – and great (albeit cold) swimming. State land on the Vermont side hosts several outstanding primitive canoe campsites. The town of Columbia does allow camping on an island on the left as well, but maintenance is more sporadic.

The third day, paddle three miles south to Bloomfield. If you need supplies, or a hot meal, it is worth venturing up to the Debanville General Store on the Vermont side. You can end your trip here – or carry on an additional 11 miles to a takeout just past the Maidstone Bridge. You’ll find a timber staircase on the New Hampshire side. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail’s Maine Central Railroad Trestle Campsite makes a good resting point/ lunch spot on route- it is immediately below a railroad trestle located in the middle of the river, about seven miles below Bloomfield.