Connecticut River in New Hampshire

Trip Overview

The once dreaded Fifteen Miles Falls lies beneath the large Moore Res. The Moore is a long and bending piece of water that stretches for quite a ways. I launched from put in provided by the power company at the end of Old Waterford Road and headed north toward Gilman Vermont. The shores of the Moore are mostly rocky with some sandy beaches thrown into the mix. The water level fluctuates so a rock out cropping that is an island today may be gone the next trip. There are no visible signs of development along the river, except of course the transmission line heading to the hydro plant. The Moore Dam was built in the 50s and is the largest one of its kind in New England.

There are plenty of put-ins available through the courtesy of the power company. There is one on the Vermont side and four on the New Hampshire side. There is plenty of parking at all locations along with picnic facilities. There is even a hiking trail at the one I used.

The Moore is an under utilized body of water- except of course during the big fishing derby held in early summer. We only counted a half dozen or so power boats. Plenty of room for all of us. The kayakers were out in numbers in all manner of boats. The Moore is a big somewhat unprotect body so it is beneficial to check the weather forecast before heading out. I have seen 2-3 foot rollers and whitecaps during nastier days.

Visit the Moore for a paddle and a picnic before summer slips away or make it a destination for a Fall foliage paddle.

Accommodations:

Littleton is a small city that is growing fast, so it has just about everything you need. Try the Italian Oasis for a bowl of pasta and a fantastic hand crafted brew. The owner brews his own brew and is very good at it. There are a few hotels and a great downtown. If you have some time to browse try the Village Book Store, my kids like the basement.

Fees:

Not a dime. Free, nada, zilch, zero. The boat launches and recreation areas are provided as a courtesy to all of us, kayakers and motor boaters alike.

Directions:

From Exit 43 on I93 head north for just a few dozen yards to your first left Old Waterford Road. Follow this until the end.

Resources:

Delorme VT page 43. I'm too cheap to buy the NH one too.