Ages 7+ • 2-3 hours • Falls Village, CT to Cornwall Bridge, CT
Float five miles of the Housatonic on an easy, unguided canoe or kayak trip that finishes under the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge. Perfect for families and first-time paddlers looking for a scenic half-day on the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness — able to paddle for 2–3 hours with short periods of higher exertion in riffles.
Wildlife
History
The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is a historic 19th-century crossing that reflects the region’s rural, agricultural past and early transportation routes.
Conservation
Keep the river clean by packing out all trash, avoiding shoreline trampling, and using biodegradable products; follow Leave No Trace to protect riparian habitat.
Clarke Outdoors
Ages 7+ • 2-3 hours • Falls Village, CT to Cornwall Bridge, CT
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.
Check river levels
River flow affects the difficulty of riffles; check local gauges before you launch to avoid low or unusually swift conditions.
Bring a dry bag
Keep phones, snacks, and spare layers dry—one unexpected wet splash can ruin a leisurely float.
Arrive early on weekends
Parking near the launch is limited during summer weekends; early arrival avoids a rushed put-in and long walks with gear.
Wear layered clothing
Wind and river spray can make mornings chilly; a lightweight waterproof layer and insulating midlayer keep you comfortable.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Required for safety; keeps paddlers buoyant in moving water.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Protects phone, keys, and spare layers from splashes and capsizes.
Quick-dry layers and waterproof jacket
Lightweight insulation and a shell handle chilly mornings and river spray.
spring
Water shoes or sandals with heel strap
Protect feet on rocky take-outs and make re-entry from sandbars easier.
summer