Connecticut River Adventures
The Connecticut River is the longest river in New England, offering diverse recreational opportunities from paddling to wildlife viewing along its 410 miles through four states.
About Connecticut River
The Connecticut River stretches approximately 410 miles from the Canadian border in New Hampshire and Vermont southward to Long Island Sound in Connecticut. As New England's longest river, it traverses diverse landscapes including forested valleys, wetlands, and historic river towns. The river's watershed encompasses portions of four states: New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. It supports rich ecosystems with habitats for fish species such as Atlantic salmon, striped bass, and anadromous fish, as well as numerous bird species including bald eagles and herons. Historically, the river played a crucial role in transportation, trade, and industrial development dating back to Native American settlements and colonial times. Today, the Connecticut River offers visitors excellent recreational activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and hiking along its banks. Key landmarks along the river corridor include the historic sites of Old Saybrook and Hadley, Massachusetts, the Connecticut River Greenway, and the expansive Great River Trail in Massachusetts. The corridor connects many state parks, wildlife refuges, and preserves, making it a significant conservation area under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Visitors are drawn to its mixture of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure opportunities year-round.
Highlights
Great River Trail – a multi-use 26-mile path alongside the river in Massachusetts
Connecticut River estuary and salt marshes – vital habitat for migratory birds and fish
Historic river towns such as Northampton, Amherst, and Old Saybrook
The Florence Mill area and Connecticut River Walk with scenic river vistas
Notable Natural Features
Connecticut River National Wild and Scenic River Corridor
A designated corridor protecting over 110,000 acres of land along the river in four states, preserving its free-flowing condition and natural beauty.
Holyoke Dam and Canal System
Historic hydroelectric canals and dams near Holyoke, Massachusetts, showcasing early industrial use of the river's power.
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
Extends along the river protecting important riverine wetlands and spawning grounds for migratory fish species.