Lyman Falls Overnight

Lyman Falls (River Mile 351) 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 in collaboration with the state of Vermont and the town of Columbia. On river right is Lyman Falls State Park, which hosts three excellent campsites for paddlers. On river left is land now owned by the town of Columbia, NH. Here, paddlers are welcome to camp on island just upstream of the breached dam.

The river in this vicinity is a mix of quick-water and Class I rapids. It can get quite bony in the summer – if you can, plan a trip here in late spring, early summer or after summer and rains bring the river up. Otherwise, be prepared to get out and walk in the river on occasion.

The breached dam at Lyman Falls is no longer a significant hazard for paddlers. Old sections of concrete used to create pinning hazards, and rebar in exposed timbers were dangerous. However, through the efforts of trail partners, these hazards were removed in 2022. A block of concrete was left in the middle of the river (and armored with rocks) to maintain the fishing and excellent swimming hole below.

There are several launch points, depending on how far you want to paddle, including in Canaan, (RM 373), Colbrook (Bridge Street Access, RM 363), or Lemington (Francis Smith Memorial Access, RM 356). On your second day out, paddle south to Debanville Landing Bloomfield (RM 348) for a short trip, or, for a longer day, on to the Maidstone Bridge (RM 336), through a beautiful, quiet section of river that is also part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.