Ages 7+ • 2-4 hours • Falls Village, CT to West Cornwall, CT
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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone with basic paddling ability and moderate fitness; families encouraged to participate.
Wildlife
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.
Clarke Outdoors
Ages 7+ • 2-4 hours • Falls Village, CT to West Cornwall, 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.
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.
Kayak or Canoe
Reliable and stable watercraft is needed for paddling both calm and flowing sections of the river.
spring
Water Shoes
Protect your feet when entering or exiting the water and walking on rocky riverbanks.
summer
Sun Hat & Sunscreen
Shield yourself from midday sun exposure during open stretches on the river.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Be prepared for sudden showers typical of autumn in Connecticut's river valley.
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