Natchaug

The Natchaug River flows through forestland with several campgrounds. Lack of development allows for water quality being among the cleanest in the state. This is a popular canoe route in the spring and late fall.

The river is not easily accessible from route 44. The put-in is about ¼ mile South of junction route 44 and route 198, to General Lyon Road and Pilfeershire Street. A short walk from the put-in easily scouts the first rapid.

At the put-in the river is known as the Still River until the confluence with Bigelow Brook, which forms the Natchaug River.

Mile    ½          Confluence with Bigelow Brook

Mile 1 ½          On-Stage Rapid

Mile 2 ¼          Natchaug State Forest stone bridge and picnic area

Mile 2 ¾          Elbow Rapid

Mile 3 ¾          Morey Road Bridge

Mile 4 ½          Marcy Road Bridge

Mile 6              North Bear Hill Road Bridge

Mile 7              England Road Bridge

The Natchaug State Forest picnic area is the location of many canoe poling workshops. Forest service sign indicates entrance to the park off route 198 between route 44 and route 6 (Lat: 41.84076 Lon: -72.09196)

The take-out is on river left, upstream side of the England Road bridge. A dirt pull-off is available for parking.