In 1903, the old Lyman Falls dam brought the first electric power to the country. When the dam was partially removed in 1963, the site quickly become a popular recreational spot — showing how dam removal can open up new river recreation opportunities. For decades, the land was owned by New Hampshire-based Washburn Lumber Company. Owners Malcolm and Dallas Washburn sold the land to Vermont River Conservancy because, “We thought it extremely important to have the land maintained as it is now. It has a lot of natural beauty and is one of the few places with river frontage that looks out across to a forested shoreline in New Hampshire.” The land is now owned by Vermont Forests, Parks, & Recreation, and Vermont River Conservancy holds a conservation easement that allows public access and prohibits development.
Plunge pools, rapids, and riffles below Lyman Falls add oxygen to the water to create an excellent cold-water fishery, which is reached by foot access only. The moderate, wadeable riverbed and consistent riffles attract anglers for fine catch-and-release fishing.The site also has an undeveloped water access-only canoe campsite, which is part of the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail.
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
Take 91 North to Lyndonville exit. Proceed on Route 5 to Route 114. Proceed Northeast on Route 114 to Route 105. Go right on 105 to town of Island Pond. Continue on 105 to Route 102, into the town of Bloomfield. Go left (North) on Route 102. A little over 2 miles, look for an orange gate on right. This is gate into property. If you see Agency of Transportation (AOT) property, you have gone too far.
