Hopeville Pond / Pachaug River in Connecticut


A self-supported trip created by podpaddler

Trip Overview

Hopeville Pond is a widened, 3-mile part of the Pachaug River, located in eastern CT. The best way to access the pond is by entering Hopeville Pond State Park, there you will find hiking trails, picnic areas, camp sites, etc., and a beach that is the perfect place to put in your kayak. (The water is brownish from organic matter, but other than that it is beautiful!) As we left the beach we headed to the left and followed the pond through woods, farmland,a small areas of cottage, under a country road, and eventually we were peacefully paddling in the Pachaug River. We explored some of the coves, finding a beaver dam which you could only access by pulling yourself under a low footbridge---of course, this is an optional part of the ride! Wildlife is everywhere, including blue herons, ducks, swans, Monarch butterflies........and the dragonfly that hitched a ride on my kayak for a bit!

We saw a few other people paddling, and a couple fishing on the banks, but for a day of relaxing paddling, this is the place to go!

Accommodations:

The actual boat ramp is in the camping area, which is seasonal and has limited parking, but you can put in at the beach (which is what we did). There is plenty of parking there, but you will have to carry your kayak about 100 feet to the water---it is worth it! There are also(seasonal) bathroom facilities.

Fees:

As with most of the state parks, during the summer there is a day-use fee to enter the park.

Directions:

Take Interstate 395, get off at exit 86, onto Route 201 East. There will be signs to Hopeville Pond State Park, just stay on Rt. 201, which forks to the right after about 0.5 mile, the park entrance is about 1 mile past the fork.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: Flat/Sheltered Water

Trip Location