Connecticut
First Connecticut Lake to Lake Francis (Trophy Stretch)
| Difficulty | II-III |
| Length | 2.9 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 78 fpm |
| Reach Info Last Updated | July 19, 2024 |
River Description
It's a short two-and-a-half mile section below the first Connecticut lake. It's easier at the start but you have to watch out for trees, ledges, and fishermen. The biggest rapid is right before St-Francis lake. At some flow, Judge's and Jury ledge could be riverwide dangerous hydrolic. Over 700 CFS, rapids are class 3. Check flow on http://www.h2oline.com/srcs/335122.html
River Features
1st CT Lake Dam Put-In
Put-in on river right below the dam. 500 feet below the put in, there is an island that tends to have sweeper
Judge's & Jury ledge
First big rapids after the put in. Go far left to avoid the river wide dangerous hydraulic. If you are not sure about it, you should scout it before you get on the river.
In Between Water Rapid
Long non-stop 2/3 of a mile rapid. At 700 CFS and more, they're not a lot of places to take your breath. Toward the end of the rapid there is a wood jam on the left side of a right river bend. Make sure to avoid it.
Skating Rink Rapid
Big wave train with a nice pool to recover
The Step Pool Rapid
Biggest rapids on the section nothing too serious. Toward the end, there is a big rock in the middle, it could hide a hole at certain levels
Lake Francis State Park take out
Take out on river right in the State Park where the river ends at the reservoir.
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportRiver was at 700 cfs, at that flow river is non stop. Lots of trees but nothing side to side. Trees may be dangerous for a swimmer. Rapids bellow Perry stream was so fun.