Pemigewasset

5) Ayers Island Dam (Bristol) to Coolidge(Bristol Gorge)

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May 18, 2009

Trip Report

ReporterPaul Cooper

With the bridge out; it is not too difficult to leave a
vehicle at the take-out then walk/boat to the putin. Most people know
there is a very nice path on the New Hampton (paddler's left) side of the
river that makes it easy to drag or carry a (light) boat from the bridge
to the first drop. If you ferry across the river from there you can take
back out at a small pebble beach just before the first drop on the right
side of the river. From there go about 20 feet uphill and you will
magically appear on a lawn that appears to be maintained by Public Works.
You will see a fence that makes it look like you are behind a
locked gate but before you get to the fence you will be on the road near
the recycle center. It appeared to be pedestrian friendly and I did not
see any posted no-trespassing signs but it would be prudent to show the
area the full respect one would show any private property just in case.

You can scout this on your way to the putin also. When you get to
the recycle center take a right instead of the left you usually take then
the field will be on your immediate left. You can drive half way down the
field on the roadway then take the short walk to the river. As with any
outdoor area take precautions against natural hazards such as ivy, ticks,
etc.

Trip Report – Bristol Gorge | American Whitewater