Burr Pond in Connecticut

Trip Overview

Burr Pond is one of my favorite paddling spots in Northwestern Connecticut. At 88 acres, it's big enough to be enjoyable, but small enough to allow for a quick exit if the weather goes downhill in the middle of a run.

Burr Pond is part of a State Park with a beach and canoe/kayak rentals, but the boat launch has a separate entrance and there's no fee to put your boat in the water or park at the launch site. There are no power boats or jet skis to contend with, but you'll find other kayakers and canoeists paddling or fishing.

The wooded hillsides come right to the waters edge, and there is a hiking trail a short distance back from the shoreline. The main body of the pond splits into three coves at the south end which makes for an interesting paddle.

You'll find a variety of birds and other wildlife as well as water lilies and other aquatic plants towards the south end of the pond. Watch out for rocks just below the surface at various locations around the shore. It can be a busy place on weekends, but is generally very quiet during the week.

Accommodations:

Paved parking at boat launch with paved/gravel ramp. Full facilities, picnic tables, beach, canoe/kayak rental at the Park.

Fees:

No charge at boat launch. Park entrance fee varies, $6 weekdays/$7 weekends for CT residents, $7/$10 for non-residents.

Directions:

Route 8 to Exit 46 (Pinewoods Rd.) about halfway between Winsted and Torrington. West to Winsted Road (traffic light). Left to Burr Mountain Road (blinking light). Right to Burr Pond State Park.
Note: Boat launch is a short distance past the park entrance on the left.

Contact:

Connecticut State Parks and Forests