Willimantic River in Connecticut

Trip Overview

This run is about 8.5 miles through a scenic, forested section of Willimantic. It took under three hours to run. We ran it after recent rain so the river was abnormally high for this time of year. The gauge reading was 4.7 on the Willimantic river website. The site recommends trips when the gauge is above 4.2. At 4.7 the current was fast and the water overran established summer vegetation and shallow islands.

The river was quick with many sharp bends and was rather isolated with deep woods, fields, and backwater marshes. Many sections had overhanging branches and occasional limbs sticking out to watch out for. I did hit one and flipped right over. A tree fell across about half way down - there was a narrow passage on the left to get through. An island after I-84 should be run on the right.

The launch spot off Plains Road was deep.
The Takeout at the end of Jones Crossing Road was a nice sand beach.

Fees:

none

Directions:

Launch - Plains Road -- off Route 32, dirt turnoff by river.
Takeout - End of Jones Crossing Road -- Route 195, .5 miles west of Route 32.

Resources:

One should consult the Willimantic River Alliance website - an excellent resource with detailed guide and river gauge information.