10 Scenic Places to Visit Along the Connecticut River

From the Canadian border in New Hampshire to Long Island Sound in Connecticut, the Connecticut River flows through some of New England’s most scenic and historically rich landscapes. This 410-mile-long river provides endless recreational and sightseeing opportunities. Here are ten spots that provide a glimpse into some of the delightful features the Connecticut River has to offer.

Connecticut River Headwaters - Pittsburg, NH

Tucked away in the wilderness of northern New Hampshire are the humble headwaters of the Connecticut River. The waters originate from a small, spring-fed lake known as the Fourth Connecticut Lake that is just yards from the Canadian border. Take a hike on the Fourth Connecticut Lake Trail and weave your way through boreal forests and across international boundary markers. You might be lucky enough to enjoy a potential moose spotting along your way. This is the only place along the river where you can stand across the entire span of the river.

The Narrows - Woodsville, NH

Other than the headwaters of the Connecticut River, this is the narrowest part of the river throughout its long journey to the sound. Just above the Ranger Bridge, the river tightens between granite walls as the Ammonoosuc River pours in. The confluence creates swirling currents and occasional whirlpools for paddlers, and this can be perfect for those in kayaks seeking a thrill. The scenic views and echoes of historic log drives and early river exploration will keep you satisfied on land as well.

Photo by William Daugherty

Sumner Falls - Hartland, VT

Sumner Falls, aka Hartland Rapids, is an adventurous spot where the river carves out rapids with swirling eddies. Whitewater paddlers and anglers will have a terrific time visiting. Beyond its scenic views, Sumner Falls carries layers of heritage. It sits near the site of the long-abandoned Sumner Falls Canal, which was part of an early 19th‑century effort to bypass the rapids via locks and navigable waterways. The area was also a key part for the lumber trade, which helped shaped the town now known as Sumner’s Village.

Bellows Falls - Bellows Falls, VT

Bellows Falls, VT, offers a riverside experience centered on the Connecticut River. This riverside town is home to one of the earliest canals in the country. This canal shapes the flow of the river, and it touts public amenities like picnic spots, boat ramps, paddler campsites, and a fish ladder and visitor center operated seasonally. Nearby, the new Riverfront Park is stewarded by the Historical Society and invites walkers and kayakers to the water. Amid the plethora of activities, you can also find a centuries‑old Bellows Falls Petroglyph Site: panels of faces carved into bedrock just beside the Great Falls. These figures are believed to date anywhere from 300 to 3,000 years and are considered sacred spiritual markers.

Great Falls - Turners Falls, MA

This natural waterfall, which is now modified for hydroelectric power, is a fascinating taste of the industrial history along the Connecticut River. Once used for navigational purposes, the current canal has bike trails and fishing access at various points. Visitors should stop by the Great Falls Discovery Center to learn more about the river’s fascinating ecosystem.

Image by CodyBCleo

Northampton Meadows and Elwell Recreation Area - Northampton, MA

This riverside area offers biking and walking trails, a boat launch, and fishing spots along a quiet, meandering stretch of the Connecticut River. Located just south of the Coolidge Bridge, it’s ideal for an afternoon paddle or birdwatching break.

Chester-Hadlyme Ferry Crossing - Hadlyme, CT

In operation since 1769, this historic ferry connects scenic river roads and brings travelers to the base of Gillette Castle, a stone mansion perched high above the river. The crossing offers panoramic river views and a taste of old New England transport.

Gillette Castle State Park - East Haddam, CT

Right by the river is the castle actor William Gillette built in 1914, visitors are able to explore the grounds and tour the inside of the medieval style building. The overlook behind it offers one of the best views of the Connecticut River, particularly during sunrise or peak foliage. Paddlers can also find public river camping sites tucked away on the forested grounds of this 24-room mansion.

Photo provided by CT State Parks

Selden Neck State Park - Lyme, CT

Only accessible by boat, this island park is one of the river’s hidden gems. With primitive camping, hiking trails, and a rugged shoreline, Selden Neck offers a backcountry experience away from the hustle and bustle and only a few miles from the river’s mouth.

Photo by Connecticut Tourism Office

Connecticut River Estuary & Ferry Landing State Park - Old Lyme, CT

At the southern end, the river meets Long Island Sound in a dynamic tidal estuary rich in birdlife and maritime history. The state park features a boardwalk, boat launch, and sunset views over salt marshes and barrier islands. In the nearby town of Essex, resides the Connecticut River Museum, which hosts exhibits and events related to the history of the river.

If exploring the river by foot is not your chosen mode of transportation, the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail is a wonderful resource for boaters. With primitive campsites and river access points, anyone can begin their journey on the water. Some may even decide to paddle all 410 miles, completing a Source to Sea journey. Happy exploring!