Lord Cove in Connecticut

Trip Overview

"Visitable only by small boat, this brackish marsh contains a five-mile maze of waterways, with an abundance and variety of birdlife."

My wife and I saw many osprey overhead and in the trees as well as marsh hawks, red tail hawks, swan, egrets, herons and more. The further we paddled the more remote it became.

"What to See: Plants
Lord Cove includes the habitat of 10 plant species listed as endangered, threatened, or of special concern in Connecticut, many found at multiple locations throughout the marsh.

What to See: Animals
Many bird species roost and perch within the marsh and surrounding uplands, including the king rail and the least bittern, the northern harrier and sedge wren, bald eagle (in winter), and the savannah sparrow.

Lord Cove is an excellent example of brackish tidal marsh. The preserve has been created thanks to the generosity of numerous donors; the entire preserve has been protected through gifts. Most recently, Jane I. Davison of Lyme donated an easement on 13 acres on the east shore of Lord Cove. Altogether, the Davison family is acting to protect more than 180 acres at the site."

We found this to be a great place to paddle our kayaks. I would recommend to time the paddle with the tides. Best at high tide.

Directions:

From Interstate 95:

Take exit 70 and drive north on Route 156 for about a half-mile.

There is a town landing to the left, where you may launch your canoe or kayak, but parking is limited with a 3 hour maximum; after launching, one of your party will have to return your car to the park-and-ride lot just north of I-95 on the right (1/2 mile from site), and return on foot.

Resources:

"AMC Quiet Water"