Wrightsville Reservoir in Vermont

Trip Overview

Wrightsville Reservoir isnt the biggest pond out there, but it's a great place to get out and paddle or swim for an afternoon. You can always find many forms of wildlife around the edge so bring a camera. A kayak or canoe will allow you to get extra close if youre quiet and allow you to travel to all the points that the motor boats and swimmers can't get to. Its a good place to paddle when you want to relax and take in everything.

Accommodations:

Montpelier has numerous accommodations, you can check them out at www.montpelier-vt.org

Fees:

Not at this time :)

Directions:

From I-89 coming north or south, take EXIT 8 toward US-2/MONTPELIER/VT-12/ST. JOHNSBURY. At your second set of lights you'll want to turn LEFT onto Bailey Ave.. At the next intersection take a RIGHT onto State Street. Follow State St. about a half mile (you'll also see VT's capitol building on your left). After you pass the Capitol Movie Theater, Montpelier Post office and the Court House you'll want to take the next LEFT onto Elm. Street. This is your last turn until the reservoir. Elm St. will eventually turn into US Rt. 12. Follow Rt. 12 about three or so miles and the reservoir will be on your RIGHT (it is the next right after Horn of the Moon Rd.).

Launches:

There are two access areas. The directions will lead you to the public boat launch area. Motorized boats are allowed on the reservoir at this location but are only permitted to be used in the designated area. Muscle powered boats are allowed throughout the reservoir. The second access point in just a half mile or so down the road on the RIGHT. This is the public swimming/beach access with bathrooms but is also another point to start from. There are also shelters that can be used for picnics and BBQs.

Resources:

None, but the many local outdoor and cycling shops have them. Try Onion River Sports located on Langdon St. which of right off of Elm St. on your way to the reservoir. And dont be afraid to stop in Montpelier and look around. Any of the stores will be able to point you in the right direction again.