Paddle the Housatonic: Easy Flatwater and Gentle Rapids from Falls Village to West Cornwall
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone with basic paddling ability and moderate fitness; families encouraged to participate.
Overview
Discover the 11:30 Housatonic River Trip: an easy, unguided paddle from Falls Village to West Cornwall that blends calm flatwater with gentle rapids. Perfect for beginners and families, it ends with a picnic at the historic Covered Bridge, creating an unforgettable river adventure.
11:30 Housatonic River Trip
Ages 7+ • 2-4 hours • Falls Village, CT to West Cornwall, CT
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the beauty of the Housatonic River on an unguided paddling adventure suitable for all skill levels. Enjoy a mix of flatwater and easy whitewater, perfect for novices. Conclude your trip with a picnic at the iconic Covered Bridge in West Cornwall, creating lasting memories in nature.
All experience levels welcome!
This is an UNGUIDED activity.
This trip runs from Falls Village to West Cornwall. (this trip does NOT go to the Meadows Park)
Duration
2-3 hours
About
Paddle a section of the beautiful Housatonic River in Northwestern Connecticut.
This section is a mixture of moving flatwater and easy whitewater and is suitable for novice paddlers.
The famous Covered Bridge in West Cornwall is a nice place to have a picnic lunch when you finish your trip!
- Canoes : 2 People Ages 7+ with an adult
- Kayaks : 1 Person Ages 13+
- Rafts : 3 - 7 People Ages 4+ with an adult
Adventure Tips
Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket to ensure safety on both flatwater and rapids.
Check River Conditions Before You Go
Water levels affect the difficulty; low water can expose rocks, while higher levels speed currents.
Pack a Waterproof Bag
Keep your phone, snacks, and keys dry during your paddle by using a dry bag or waterproof container.
Start Early to Avoid Crowds
Launching in the morning helps beat weekend crowds and enjoy peaceful paddling conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- River otter
History
The West Cornwall Covered Bridge, built in 1864, stands as a historic landmark symbolizing 19th-century New England engineering.
Conservation
The Housatonic River benefits from local watershed protection efforts ensuring clean water and habitat preservation.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Falls Village
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Kayak or Canoe
Reliable and stable watercraft is needed for paddling both calm and flowing sections of the river.
spring specific
Water Shoes
Protect your feet when entering or exiting the water and walking on rocky riverbanks.
summer specific
Sun Hat & Sunscreen
Shield yourself from midday sun exposure during open stretches on the river.
summer specific
Light Rain Jacket
Be prepared for sudden showers typical of autumn in Connecticut's river valley.
fall specific