Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Connecticut River Greenway stretches over 400 miles along the Connecticut River, the longest river in New England, flowing through Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. This greenway protects a continuous corridor of forests, wetlands, farmlands, and historic river towns, working to conserve both ecological integrity and cultural heritage. The river and surrounding lands support a vast range of wildlife including bald eagles, beavers, otters, and migratory fish species, like Atlantic salmon and American shad. Visitors can explore numerous state parks, wildlife refuges, and public lands that offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, paddling, camping, bird watching, and cycling. Key landmarks include historic mill towns, covered bridges, and riverside parks. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the greenway's mix of easy riverfront trails and more rugged forested routes, along with numerous access points for kayaking and canoeing. Seasonal events such as river clean-ups and interpretive programs enhance visitor engagement. The greenway also plays a critical role in regional environmental education and sustainable development, providing habitat connectivity and floodplain protection. Through cooperation among state agencies, nonprofits, and local communities, the Connecticut River Greenway is a model of multi-state conservation and outdoor recreation management, welcoming over a million visitors annually.
