A longtime “unofficial” river access site, private landowners didn’t always appreciate the carloads of boaters and anglers crossing their land to access the river. That’s why Vermont River Conservancy stepped in. We purchased the 2.5-acre parcel in 2012 and added a conservation easement to protect public access to the Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail. Today, the site is owned by the town of Canaan and includes a parking area, ADA accessible porta-potty, kiosk, and boat launch. It’s just downstream of the Canaan Dam, and is the “end” of the portage around the dam.
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
This boat launch is located in the heart of Canaan village, downstream of the Rt 114 bridge that crosses the Connecticut River and connects Canaan VT to West Stewartstown, NH. Access the river via a loop road to the west of this bridge. This road down to the river must be kept clear for emergency vehicles; park in the parking area downstream of the loop road. Walk across the mowed field, and follow the steep ramp down to the river.
