Recreation
At the Connecticut River Conservancy, we believe that protecting the river and enjoying it go hand in hand. That’s why CRC organizes a beginner and intermediate paddling series during the summer months, collaborates with partners for many other types of on-water/near-water activities, and advocates for river access improvements. We are dedicated to promoting recreation opportunities in the Connecticut River watershed.
Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail
CRC is a member of the collaborative that runs and maintains the Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail (CRPT). With over 100 access points and 50 campsites, the CRPT provides a unique experience for boaters to travel along the river from source to sea.
Source to Sea Paddler Recognition
We love to support and celebrate the adventurous folks who paddle the entire length of the 410-mile Connecticut River. You can see the names of those who have accomplished this feat or submit your story below, or read about Jesse's solo kayak experience.
Maps & Guides of the Connecticut River
From navigation maps to help you traverse the river, to informational guides related to river safety, flows, campsites, and places to visit by boat, we have a range of resources to support recreation access for all.
River Recreation Events
Summer 2026 paddling events are in the works and will be listed soon! Coming up are beginner and intermediate learn-to-kayak events, the Peskeompskut Paddle in connection with the Pocumtuck Homelands Festival, and other activities that may be near the river but not on the water.
All events will be listed here as they open for registration. Be sure to subscribe to CRC's newsletters to hear about them as they open since some events may have limited capacity.
Connecticut River Paddler's Trail Interactive Map
Download our app to access the 410-mile long Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail! Mostly meandering, but at times rushing forcefully, the Connecticut River flows past a diverse landscape of rich agricultural lands, rural communities, urban centers, and tidal marshes.
Source to Sea Journeys
Each year, a handful of paddling enthusiasts complete the 410-mile journey of traversing the entire Connecticut River, from Source to Sea. CRC celebrates these kayakers, canoeists and swimmers (just one so far) by highlighting their section paddles or through journeys!
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If you have completed a journey of the Connecticut River and would like to share your story, contact us at the email below.
The river provided me opportunities to practice letting go of misconceptions of myself, others and of the river, and being in the present moment more fully.
I am extremely grateful to everyone who has been involved with Connecticut River Conservancy since its inception. Their persistent efforts and commitment through the years made this swim possible!
Kari Kastango
First person to swim the entire length of the Connecticut River, 2018 - 2023
Paddler Recognition
Please review the list below to see who has made the incredible journey of traveling the 410-mile Connecticut River. Those who completed the Trail in one season are listed as “Through-Journey” paddlers. Those who completed the Trail in two or more seasons are called “Section-Journey” paddlers.
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​Have you completed a Source to Sea paddle and want to see YOUR name added below? Send your story to dchaplin@ctriver.org or submit here.
Through-Journeys
Ben Jankowski & Phoebe Gelbard (2026)
Brendan Walsh (2025)
Andrew G. Edwards (2025)
Frederick A. Peterson (2025)
Joe Roman (2025)
Jesse Strauch (2024)
Wanda Kirker and Rick Bain (2022)
Mary Anderson (2022)
Gary Vollinger (2022)
Sarah and Scott Lancaster (2022)
Emily Nuckols (2021)
Ben Lynch (2021)
Mack Truax (2021)
Trey McPherson (2020)
Daniel Stevens (2020)
Cathleen (Mumford) Brennan (2019)
Andy Myers (2019)
Timothy Bertch and Mark Alexander (2018)
Ted & Ben Murray (2012)
Ed Terlik, Lenny Desrochers & Kenny Bihler (2005)
Nancy and Tom Condon (2002)
Ted Jones (1982)
Tim Brocket (1979)
Dr. Joseph and Madeleine Davidson (1959)
Section-Journeys
Michael Fairchild (2018-2024)
Lorraine Brisson (2018-2024)
Nick Boatman (2023)
John Rudmann (2023)
Cheryl Fitch (2018-2022)
Bridget Macdonald and Justin Fermann (2015-2022)
Tim Walsh (2021-2022)
Lucy Eyre (2018-2022)
Susan and Peter Craig (2020-2021)
Tim Lewis (2017-2020)
Harvey Hill (2017-2019)
Andrew and Karen Fisk’s JUMP IN JOURNEY (2017)
Brian and Matthew Fogg (2011, 2015)
Jeff Feldmann, Scott Larkham, Scott Stenberg, Ron Merriam and a dog name Abe (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010)
Parker Lord and Jim Poole (2007, 2008)
John Sinton, Elizabeth Farnsworth, Wendy Sinton (2005, 2006)