The Great Works River is a historic river that is known for being the first to turn a water-powered mill in the United States. The river is also very scenic though as it runs through heavily wooded rural terrain between North and South Berwick. The river is narrow and winding and consists of mostly class I waters and flatwater. The upper section of the river can be shallow and dry during the summer. Downed trees and other debris can also be an issue, especially during the first part of the run. The last 3 or 4 miles usually have sufficient water for paddling all season long. Be sure to take out at Brattle Street as there is a dam and falls just after the bridge.

Located in beautiful Eden, Lake Eden is sandwiched between Stowe and Jay Peak. Private campgrounds, vacations rentals and summer homes dot the perimeter of the lake. The lake is small and offers excellent paddling conditions. There is a small gravel launch ramp but no facilities provided. It can be enjoyed year round but the parking and ramp are not plowed during the winter months.

Squam Lake offers some excellent paddle touring on a large lake with a convoluted and scenic shoreline. The center of the lake is host to many islands from tiny wooded outcroppings to larger inhabited woodlands. The northeastern portion of the lake has several isolated bays to explore that are separated by narrow straits. There are ample fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities on the lake and the nearby town of Holderness can provide basic services. Boat ramp and parking fees apply.

This section of the Saco River is very popular in the summer months, so be prepared for crowds during that time. During the spring, high waters usually force this into a one-way trip, however, at some other times the water is slow enough to allow upstream travel for those with no shuttle options or are novice paddlers. On this route, there should be little-to-no signs of development, but only natural scenery. One can also detour and visit Pleasant Pond while paddling, but be courteous since the pond is located within private property. There are usually fees associated with parking at many of the take-out areas by the Route 160 bridge.

Grafton Pond has at least half a dozen bays to explore as well as many small islands and the straights between them. Despite being labeled a pond Grafton has over six miles of wooded shoreline to paddle along with a minimum of development. The lake has powerboat restrictions concerning wake and horsepower making it safer and quieter for the paddler. This lake is particularly attractive in fall when foliage colors are vibrant.

Willard Pond is located on a large Audubon Society preserve making its shores almost entirely free of development. This pond has clean, crystal-clear water, views of a nearby mountains and densely wooded banks. Powerboats are not permitted on Willard Pond so paddlers can be sure they’ll have peace and quiet. This pond is particularly scenic in fall when foliage colors are vibrant.

Maidstone Lake is a remote lake in the Northeast Kingdom. It was created when glacial ice carved out a deep basin in a preexisting valley. It offers a pleasant setting for paddling with spruce-fir trees that line the shoreline. Loons love this lake and are common to see.

This paddle begins with a portage of about a third of a mile but the extra effort pays off with the benefit of solitude. This pond located in the White Mountains has about two miles of shoreline to explore in a lush woodland setting of hardwoods and evergreens. Of course given the hike there are no powerboats on Mountain Pond, in fact they are restricted, adding to the peace and quiet. There is a lean-to on the north side of the pond should you desire an overnight outing.

Fairfield Swamp is a large wetland complex with upland forests. You will find several species of rare plants, birds and wetland animals. The paddling is smooth, quiet and mystical. Vermont department of fish and game maintains the parking lot and ramp.

Little Averill Pond is located in a remote corner of Northeast Kingdom. It is a beautiful place to canoe with cliffs and Brousseau Mountain as a backdrop. The access has a good-sized parking lot and a concrete boat ramp that is plowed through the winter. A restroom is available.