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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

Make a connection to nature paddling a canoe or kayak, observing eagles and other wildlife

What better way to connect with the outdoors than in a kayak or canoe? At Adventure East, minutes from the picturesque Connecticut River, they can find just the right paddling experience for you, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Spend a half or full day canoeing or kayaking on the Connecticut and Deerfield Rivers, resting secure in the knowledge that someone else has planned all the logistics and provided the equipment. Choose an adventure that takes you past islands and sandbars, observing bald eagles and other birds of prey; or a gentle loop around the Sunderland Islands Wildlife Management Area where bald eagles nest. There’s also a low-key, two-hour intro-to-kayaking course on Leverett Pond where you can learn and practice paddling skills.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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)