Each year, the Connecticut River in Lebanon, New Hampshire, wakes with an energy that dares paddlers of all skill levels to answer its call. The Connecticut River Paddling Festival transforms this stretch of water into a playground of adventure where the river isn’t just a backdrop—it is a living force pushing and pulling, challenging and rewarding with every stroke.

Set against a backdrop of mixed hardwoods and spruce that lean toward the water’s edge, the festival takes place over the last weekend of June. The river’s current invites participants to glide along nearly five miles of navigable water, flowing steadily with a moderate pace that keeps the rhythm lively but manageable for casual paddlers. The surrounding landscape shifts between gentle curves and open vistas where sunlight glistens off the rippling surface, providing ample opportunity to connect with nature’s raw pulse.

The event features multiple launch points along the river, making it accessible whether you’re bringing a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. For beginners, the festival offers guided tours and safety workshops to instill confidence before you venture into the current. More experienced paddlers can refine their skills or simply enjoy the challenge of the river as it arcs past forested banks and small wetlands where kingfishers dart and dragonflies patrol their territories.

Practical planning is key: bring a water-resistant dry bag, hydrate consistently—river air and exertion can sneak up on you—and wear footwear suited to wet, slippery boat ramps. Launching early morning or late afternoon allows you to avoid the midday sun and catch the river when it’s coolest and less crowded.

Beyond the paddle, the festival includes demonstrations, local food vendors, and environmental talks rooted in stewardship—reminders that this river is fiercely itself, shaped by communities and ecosystems that depend on its health. Participation means not only enjoying the sport but embracing responsibility.

The Connecticut River isn’t a tame waterway; it’s a force you engage with respectfully. Currents shift without warning, eddies swirl playfully before sweeping you along, and the river’s mood changes with weather and season. For those prepared and willing, the Connecticut River Paddling Festival is both a test and a celebration—an invitation to get on the water and move with the natural flow.