Natchaug

Source: Connelly and Portersfield, Appalachian Whitewater: The Northern States, 4th Edition. Text used with permission.

The Natchaug River is a short, but intense, Class IV drop-pool river in eastern Connecticut, easily reached off Interstate 86. Although the tough section is less than a mile long, the river is worthy of paddling because of its 120-feet-per-mile gradient, including a number of waterfall-type drops that challenge the accomplished boater. A nice spot for a picnic with plenty of play spots, the Natchaug River has clear, clean water and evergreen-covered ledges that keep the senses satisfied. The Natchaug provides drinking water for the Mansfield Reservoir farther downstream, and is stocked annually with trout for fishermen.

The normal take-out is at Diana's Pool, a favorite swimming hole and party spot for University of Connecticut students.

The putin is one mile north of the takeout off Route 198. Take the next right above Diana's Pool onto England Road, go over the bridge and park on the left...the river is narrow, about 25 feet wide...Watch out for strainers along this stretch, as spring rains loosen the sandy eastern Connecticut topsoil and trees topple into the river.

See the gauge tab above for visual and on-line correlations.