The best kayaking in Western Mass

At Adventure East, paddling is more than a pastime—it’s a way to connect with the land, the water, and the stories that shape our region. Western Massachusetts offers some of the most scenic and ecologically rich waterways in New England. Whether you're seeking solitude, wildlife, or a bit of adventure, these are the places we return to again and again.

1. Connecticut River - French King Gorge – Launch from Cabot Camp

This paddle is a journey through deep time. Launching from Cabot Camp, a historic riverside retreat, you’ll glide into the French King Gorge, where steep rock walls rise dramatically on either side. The elegant French King Bridge arches overhead, a striking contrast to the wildness below. The gorge is a reminder of how rivers shape landscapes—and how we can enjoy them without leaving a trace. Avoid the weekends if you can as the boat traffic from the Franklin County Marina is heavier.

2. Connecticut River - Barton Cove – A Birdwatcher’s Dream

Barton Cove is a haven for wildlife and a favorite among birders. In summer, the cove comes alive with great blue herons, ospreys, and the occasional bald eagle. Paddle quietly and you’ll hear the splash of turtles slipping into the water and the rustle of reeds in the breeze. Bordering the eastern edge of the cove, are ancient plunge pools carved by glacial meltwater that tell a story of the Earth’s past. Barton Cove is a place where geology and ecology meet in harmony. Our favorite time to paddle here is at dusk.

3. Connecticut River - Turners Falls to Sunderland – Along the Pocumtuck Range

This is our favorite stretch of the Connecticut River and it offers a peaceful paddle with sweeping views of the Pocumtuck Range and Mount Toby. The current is gentle and the scenery expansive. You’ll pass floodplain forests and farmlands rarely seeing any other paddlers. With 10 miles of paddling, it’s a great route for those who want to paddle with purpose and appreciate the natural rhythms of the river. With the put-in at Turner's Falls and the take-out in Sunderland, this route is best paddled by setting a shuttle with your paddling buddy.

4. Connecticut River - Sunderland Islands – Wildlife and Paddling Skills

Just upstream from the Sunderland boat ramp, the Sunderland Islands offer both beauty and challenge. Island 1 is home to a bald eagle nest, and sightings are common. Around Island 2, the current picks up—perfect for practicing your upstream strokes. The basalt peninsula, between the two islands, on river left makes for the perfect spot to stop for sunbathing and swimming. This section of river is great for a short paddle with lots to see and do,

5. Connecticut River - Sunderland to Hatfield – A Float-Friendly Favorite

This is a relaxing, gentle paddle downstream. Let the current carry you as you enjoy the scenery with Mount Warner and the Holyoke Range forming the backdrop to this gentle float. The calmness of this stretch makes it ideal for both self-guided paddles as well as our full moon paddles. With the put-in at Sunderland and the take-out in Hatfield, this route is best paddled by setting a shuttle with your paddling buddy.

6. Lake Warner – A Birding Sanctuary

Lake Warner is a shallow, biodiverse lake tucked behind the village of North Hadley. It’s a favorite for early morning birding paddles, when the lake is still and the air is filled with birdsong. Paddle through patches of water lilies and cattails, and you might spot herons, kingfishers, or even a muskrat weaving through the reeds. It’s a place where quiet observation becomes a form of stewardship.

7. Tully Lake – Islands and Exploration

Tully Lake is perfect for paddlers who love to explore. With its scattered islands and access to Long Pond, it offers a mix of open water and quite explorations. The shoreline is largely undeveloped, making it a great place to experience the natural world on its own terms. Pack a picnic, bring binoculars, and take your time. The Army Corp launch on the east side is ideal for exploring the lake while the canoe launch on Doane Hill Road, on the north side of the lake, is better for paddling up Long Pond.

8. Sherman Reservoir – Remote and Wild

Tucked along the Massachusetts-Vermont border, Sherman Reservoir feels like a true backcountry escape. With dense forests, minimal development, and a sense of stillness that’s hard to find elsewhere, it’s a place to unplug and reconnect. Keep an eye out for loons, beavers, and the occasional moose track along the shore. It’s wild, it’s quiet, and it’s worth the trip.

Paddling Safety Tips

Before heading out, make sure you’re prepared to paddle safely and responsibly:

• Wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times, even in calm water.
• Check the weather forecast and river conditions before launching.
• Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially on longer trips.
• Tell someone your plan, including where you’re going and when you expect to return.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, including other paddlers, wildlife, and changing currents.
• Leave no trace—pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and stick to designated launch areas

Adventure East – The Only Full-Service Outfitter on the Connecticut River in Massachusetts

At Adventure East, we believe paddling is one of the most immersive ways to experience—and protect—the natural world. Every stroke connects us more deeply to the rivers, lakes, and landscapes that define Western Massachusetts. We hope these favorite spots inspire your next adventure and deepen your appreciation for the region’s ecological richness.

As the only outfitter operating on the Connecticut River in Massachusetts, we’re proud to offer everything you need to get on the water—including boat rentals, guided trips, shuttle services, and camping gear. Whether you're a first-time paddler or a seasoned explorer, we’re here to help you paddle with purpose.