Thinking about kayaking down the Connecticut River?

Question

Well, I've been thinking about this for a bit, and I want to kayak down the CT river next spring/summer. I plan to start in Springfield, MA and go all the way to the ocean, then follow the coast and finish at Mystic, CT.

I've been trying to find some information on that stretch of river and can't find much. I came across a site that said there was rapids past Enfield. Is there any waterfalls? I sure don't want to go over one by mistake.

I estimate that it'll take a few days, maybe as much as a week to get to the end. Does anyone have ideas for food, camping equipment or anything else? I feel like I have to assume things will get wet at one point or another. Like from going down the rapids. Also, any ideas where I would be alllowed to stop for the night and set up camp? If I landed on a deserted island, would it be ok to spend the night there?

Thanks for your help!

c_kayak_fun · Accepted Answer

There is a designated canoeing trail (of course, suitable for kayaking as well) for the northern portion of the river.  You'll find information on that here:

http://www.connecticutriverpaddlerstrail.org/

This site covers the portion that runs from the MASS border to Long Island Sound.

http://www.ctriver.org/programs/recreation/index.html

You'll note it lists a book that covers the entire river from Canada to the Atlantic -- you should definitely order the book and use it for reference in planning the trip and take it along with you.  It is compact and waterproof and has everything you need in it:

http://www.ctriver.org/publication/boating%20guide/index.html

Before you attempt such an ambitious trip you should do some weekend overnight camping paddles to shake down your gear and gain some experience packing your boat and setting up your camp.  There are plenty of sites with information on selecting gear.  One good place to start would be http://www.paddling.net, the free paddler's forum website.  In fact, I guarantee there are members on there who have canoed and kayaked the entire river.  Posting your question on the forums there (under the 'communications" tab) would get you better answers than you will find on here.

I've kayaked the section of the river 10 miles upstream from the Sound but can't tell you anything about the rest of it.  It's a big river and you will need to know the maritime regulations for navigating an industrial waterway also.

Anonymous · Answer

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Thinking about kayaking down the Connecticut River?

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