DO NOT SWIM! Vermont waters are currently unsafe. Due to significant rain and flooding in most of Vermont on July 10th, with rains continuing on July 11th, currents are very strong. Also, most rivers are filled with debris, effluent, chemicals, fertilizers, etc. and are unsafe for swimming.

Nulhegan Pond Access

Brighton, Vermont

Nulhegan River Main Stem and East Branch

Paddling Access
Paddling Access
Wildlife & Watershed Protection
Wildlife & Watershed Protection
Explore the headwaters of the Nulhegan River, a free flowing and wild river with many meanders and unique ecosystems, from this site.
Dogs allowed on leash
Dogs allowed on leash
No cell service
No cell service
Portage
Portage
Danger, use caution
Danger, use caution
! Special considerations: When paddling, be sure to pack in and pack out trash. Always wear a life jacket.
  • Public access: Yes
  • Activities: Paddle, fish
Nulhegan Pond Access Brighton, Vermont Nulhegan River Main Stem and East Branch

Nulhegan Pond Access

Located at the headwaters of the Nulhegan River, this site provides the opportunity to explore an extensive wetland complex, or go downstream and see the many bends of the river. Both directions feature abundant wildlife and plant communities.

The watershed is one of the most biologically rich areas of the state and supports a wide variety of riverine and wetland communities. It is an important breeding area for migratory songbirds and is home to a variety of rare plant and animal species, including one of Vermont’s threatened species. Much of its watershed is conserved as state and federal wildlife refuges and through easements on working forest lands. As a result, water quality is outstanding and wildlife sightings are frequent.

Conservation Details

  • River: Nulhegan River Main Stem and East Branch
  • Acreage: 13
  • River frontage (ft): 1,568

Before You Go

There is a small mowed parking area at this site. A 3’ wide trail provides access to the river. Timber cribbed steps have been installed to provide paddling access to the river.

Directions

From the intersection of Route 105 and Route 144 in Island Pond, travel east on Vermont Rt. 105 for 4.6 miles. The river access area is just past Dupuis Sand and Gravel, before a bridge over the Nulhegan River. As of writing the parking area is a mowed field, with plans to improve it to be a gravel parking area.