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Berkshires and Pioneer Valley host padding, canoeing, kayaking adventures

River Kayaking - Adventure East - Sunderland, MA
Adventure East

11 Bridge Street Sunderland, MA, 01375 Phone: 413-800-5345

River kayaking, canoeing tours provide breathtaking scenery, excitement and relaxation

There is nothing quite like a paddle down a river to satisfy both your desire for adventure and relaxation at the same time! At Adventure East, the outdoor center in the picturesque Connecticut River Valley, they offer a variety of padding excursions for all levels of ability. The low-key Barton Cove Sunset Paddle features stunning views along stretches of the quiet river. There’s also a Full Moon Paddle on the Connecticut River. And there’s the three-day kayak camping tour, where you’ll explore French King Gorge among other sights, staying overnight at the Barton Cove Campground. You can also rent a kayak or canoe at the outdoor center and paddle to Lake Warner or on a river stretch from Turners Falls to Sunderland, MA where you might see bald eagles.
Lake Mattawa

Lake Mattawa Road Orange, MA Phone: 978-544-2254

Two boat ramps serve this clear mountain lake. Motor boats are limited to 10 hp or less. See full description of Lake Mattawa.
Forest in Mohawk Trail State Forest - Charlemont, MA
Mohawk Trail State Forest

175 Mohawk Trail (MA Route 2) Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 413-339-5504

Canoe along 18 miles of rivers in this scenic hidden gem. - Trail Map (PDF)
Reservoir - Tolland State Forest - East Otis, MA - Photo Credit Anne Iverson
Tolland State Forest

410 Tolland Road East Otis, MA, 01029 Phone: 413-269-6002

There is a public motorized boat launch ramp along Otis Reservoir. Be aware of swimmers and fishing in season.
Westfield River - Robinson State Park - Feeding Hills, MA - Photo Credit Kurt Langheld
Robinson State Park

428 North Street Feeding Hills, MA, 01030 Phone: 413-786-2877

Follow the paved path alongside Westfield River to reach the boat launch area for canoes and kayaks. - Trail Map (PDF)
Paddling at October Mountain State Forest - Lee, MA - Photo Credit MA State Parks
October Mountain State Forest

317 Woodland Road Lee, MA, 01238 Phone: 413-243-1778

Non-motorized canoeing and kayaking is done at this rustic mountainside park. Several boat ramps are available.
Lake Paddling - Savoy Mountain State Forest - Florida, MA - Photo Credit Shawn Fortini
Savoy Mountain State Forest

260 Central Shaft Road Florida, MA, 01247 Phone: 413-663-8469

Launch non-motorized boats only from North Pond's public ramp. Day use fees apply.
Kayaking - DAR State Forest - Goshen, MA - Photo Credit Ana West Reyes
D.A.R. State Forest

78 Cape Street - MA Route 112 Goshen, MA, 01032 Phone: 413-268-7098

Bring your canoe for some smooth paddling around the Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. Ramps are available; day-use fee applies. Please ensure that your boat and equipment are clean.
Hampton Ponds State Park - Westfield, MA - Photo Credit MA State Parks
Hampton Ponds State Park

1048 North Road Westfield, MA, 01085 Phone: 413-532-3985

The fresh water pond in this park is open to paddlers, canoeists, kayakers, and motor boats.
Connecticut River Greenway State Park - Northampton, MA - Photo Credit Carrie Beauvais
Connecticut River Greenway State Park

136 Damon Road Northampton, MA, 01060 Phone: 413-586-8706

Use the Pauchaug, Barton Cove, Sunderland, Hatfield, and Chicopee Boat Access points to launch your canoe (find details below). Elwell Recreation Area is designated for canoes and rowing only. Paddle at your own pace up/down the scenic and historic Connecticut River.
C.M. Gardner State Park - Huntington, MA - Photo Credit MA State Parks
C.M. Gardner State Park

Route 112 Huntington, MA, 01050 Phone: 413-354-6347

Good for paddling, hiking & walking; fishing; pets allowed except on beach area

Canoe along the scenic Westfield River East for a fun work-out! Bring lunch for a picnic, too, but anything you take into the park, you must leave with.