Age 4+
Float the gentle Housatonic for 1–2 hours with an included shuttle and glide under the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge. Clarke Outdoors handles the logistics—bring sun protection, secure your phone, and enjoy an easy, family-friendly river outing.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Low-moderate: suitable for most people who can sit in a tube for an hour or two and handle short walks on uneven banks.
Wildlife
History
The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is a locally recognized historic wooden covered bridge that frames the Housatonic at this village.
Conservation
Pack out all trash, avoid climbing on riverbanks or rock formations, and follow Clarke Outdoors’ guidance to minimize impact on the riparian habitat.
Clarke Outdoors
Age 4+
Clarke Outdoors is a paddling school and outfitter based in Sharon, Connecticut, offering guided and unguided river experiences on the Housatonic River. The company provides a range of trips for all skill levels, from short flatwater paddles and beginner lessons to advanced full-day whitewater instruction led by Mark Clarke, an eight-time National Champion. All guided programs include equipment, local transportation, and lunch when specified, and the beginner and full-day lessons supply instruction tailored to current river conditions.
Families and novice paddlers can choose gentle outings like the Short n' Sweet—Flatwater Paddle and the 2-mile sections that welcome small children and new paddlers. Beginner Kayak Lesson options focus on essential techniques and gear selection in two-hour sessions. For paddlers seeking challenge, the Full Day Advanced Lesson delivers six hours of whitewater coaching and safety instruction from experienced staff.
Clarke Outdoors also offers unguided river trips and rafting on sections such as the South Kent stretch and scheduled Housatonic departures at 10:00 and 11:30, allowing paddlers to explore scenic spots and picnic at the Covered Bridge. Safety emphasis, experienced instruction, and documented trip details make Clarke Outdoors a reliable choice for people seeking recreational paddling, skill development, and guided whitewater experiences in Northwestern Connecticut.
Location
Sharon, CT
Launches on the Housatonic River
Expert Coach
Mark Clarke
Eight-time National Champion & certified instructor
Skill Levels
All levels
Beginners to advanced paddlers welcome
Trips Offered
7 Trips
Range of two-hour to full-day options
Reserve a guided lesson, family flatwater paddle, or advanced whitewater session — check availability for 10:00 and 11:30 departures and full-day lessons.
Secure your phone
Use a waterproof pouch or dry bag clipped to your tube—riverside rocks and shallow riffles can jostle devices.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan 20–30 minutes before your reservation to sign waivers and get fitted so you don’t miss the shuttle.
Wear water shoes
Closed-toe water shoes protect toes when entering/exiting at rockier access points.
Follow staff directions
Clarke Outdoors will brief on pickup points and safety signals—listen closely to avoid missed shuttles.
Water shoes
Protects feet when entering/exiting over rocks and on gravel access points.
summer
Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
Keeps your phone, keys, and snacks dry while you float.
summer
Sunscreen and sun hat
Open river sections offer little shade—protect skin and eyes from prolonged sun exposure.
summer
Quick-dry towel or change of clothes
Useful for the shuttle ride back and to stay comfortable after the float.
summer