Paddling on the Willimantic River
Almost the entire river (24 miles) is navigable by small boats, except for the dammed section in the city of Willimantic, which has been proposed as a future whitewater park.
NOTE: Because river conditions and access points may change over time, use of information in this web site is at the sole risk of the user.
On-line Gauge
Before heading out, check the on-line USGS Willimantic River real-time stream gauge. Water levels can make or break a canoe/kayak trip on the river.
If the water level is at 4.2 feet, the river above Eagleville dam is deep enough for boats. The water below Eagleville dam is usually passable, but the ride can be rocky if the water level is below 4.2 feet on the gauge.
River Guide
Quickwater
for experienced river paddlers
This section extends from Stafford Springs to Plains Road bridge between Coventry and Mansfield.
The river is shallow and rocky, and the best conditions are in spring or after rainfall. This part of the river has riffles and small rapids and is rated as quickwater by AMC.
- Map 1 - Headwaters (Stafford Springs, Ellington, Willington, Tolland)
- Map 2 - Midriver (Tolland, Willington, Coventry, Mansfield)
Quiet Water
for novice paddlers
This section extends from Plains Road bridge between Coventry and Mansfield to Eagleville Dam.
This flatwater section is recommended for those not familiar with river techniques. It offers easy paddling because of a slow current and year-round water levels. Car-top/carry-in motor boats may launch at the dam (8 mph limit).
- Map 2 - Midriver (Tolland, Willington, Coventry, Mansfield)
- Map 3 - Lower River (Coventry, Mansfield)
Flatwater
for experienced paddlers
This section extends from below the Eagleville dam to Willimantic.
There is usually enough water to paddle year-round, but note that high water conditions also make it dangerous for paddling in this section of the river. This section is rated as flatwater by AMC, but there are tricky currents appropriate for experienced paddlers only.
Below the Route 66 bridge, there is currently no public place to take out before the dams. The Willimantic Whitewater Partnership has proposed a whitewater park for the dammed section of the river in the city of Willimantic. Follow the progress of this project at www.willimanticwhitewater.org
- Map 3 - Lower River (Coventry, Mansfield)
- Map 4 - Windham/Willimantic (Coventry, Mansfield, Columbia, Lebanon, Windham/Willimantic)