Quinebaug River in Connecticut

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Quinebaug River - Killingly to Norwich

This was a great trip. You could make it into a perfect one day trip or go big and enjoy the entire ride down right into the Thames River at the Norwich Marina.

Started up in Killingly, CT for a awesome 15 mile stretch down into Canterbury, CT ending at Butts Bridge Road for Day 1. The river was approximately 2-3ft in most areas. A few areas were fun while dodging and weaving through the rocky sections. River current was just right, allowing many times to just latch up with your partner (we had 10 people total) held onto each others boats and floated with the current for over a hour enjoying the views. Saw various herons, turtles etc. Nothing overwhelming on this portion of the trip. Recommended for a nice river cruise with fun areas. All skill level's would enjoy this ride.

Day 2 (14 miles) starting at Butts Bridge Rd in Canterbury, CT.
There is a small dirt road with a boat launch. Continue on down river through Aspinook Pond (about a 3 mile stretch) heading towards the Aspinook Dam. We offloaded on the right side next to a small boat launch. Carry kayak/equip down the path following the river, down to a suitable spot along the river bank to slide in. (this was the hardest dam to get around, but well worth it)

The river flowed very nicely from this section going through jewett city. Current was fast and smooth ride down, then you approach a few twists with several rocks that led to a fun obstacle course for everyone. Then it led us to the Greenville Dam - easy offloading to the right side on a cement pad with a ladder to get on rail road tracks. Walk down to a suitable spot on the river bank to slide the boats down in.

Paddled for awhile towards Norwich Dam. Offload on the left and this is a short walk around and your back in the water. As you paddle down into downtown Norwich the old mills and warehouse buildings are quite the site. It will funnel you out into the Norwich Marina. There is a nice restraunt on the water if you want to get dinner, also ice cream shop there.

Overall it was a great trip. The dam's do require a little bit of work but it is well worth it knowing you completed the entire thing. As a side note you can make many day trips out of this river. Whether it be the Killingly to Canterbury run for a full day trip, or launch after the Aspinook Dam and pull out at the next dam in Greenville. Those would be the likely spots I'll redo very soon.

Accommodations:

Bathrooms at put in spot near baseball fields. If there are games going on there are refreshment stands!

Outfitting:

We had 3 Canoe's, and 6 kayaks

Fees:

No fees, permits etc.

Directions:

I-395 North to exit 91 onto route 6. Turn left onto route 12. About 1/4 mile down the road you will see signs for "canoe trail" follow the signs. They lead you into a baseball field. On the backside of the field is the put in point.
Approximate address using GPS is 43 Wauregan Rd. Killingly, CT 06239.

Resources:

Book: AMC River Guide, CT/MA/RI

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: 2-3 Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location