Kayaking in Connecticut: 6 Waterfronts Around the Litchfield Hills

1. Lake Wononscopomuc (Lakeville, CT)

Hard to say; fun to explore! Just steps away from our main building here at Interlaken, Lake Wononscopomuc has the distinction of being the deepest natural lake in Connecticut. The deep waters here in our backyard lake make it an ideal choice for anglers. Some of the fish varieties found in Lake W. include trout, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and sunfish.

2. The Twin Lakes (Taconic, CT)

With captivating scenery and the full-service marina, O’Hara’s Landing, the twin lakes of the Washining and Washinee draw in guests from miles around. Pack a lunch and paddle out to the island within Lake Washining; here, you can find the Stone Tower and a picnic area at Camp Isola Bella. In between the twin lakes, you can also take a peek into the limestone caves scattered alongside the aptly-named Between the Lakes Road.

3. Housatonic River (Cornwall, CT)

Looking for something to spike that adrenaline? If you already have some paddling experience under your belt, set up a whitewater excursion at Clarke Outdoors in Cornwall. If it’s a more relaxing ride you’re after, Clarke also offers tours through simpler sections of the Housatonic by kayak, raft, and canoe.

4. Mudge Pond (Sharon, CT)

Located next door in the town of Sharon, Mudge Pond is far less frequented than some of the bigger bodies of water in the Litchfield Hills. The quietness of Mudge Pond and the sandy shores of the adjacent Sharon Town Beach make it a perfect location for families looking for a tranquil day on the water. Sharon’s beach also includes a changing pavilion, picnic tables, and playground.

5. Copake Lake (Copake, NY)

Well, it’s almost Connecticut. About 30 minutes from Interlaken Inn, Copake Lake’s vibrant sunsets and scenic views of the Taconic Mountain Range make it well worth the short drive. At Copake Lake Boat & Ski, rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, jet ski, or up the ante and take a spin on a pontoon boat or wakeboard.

No matter which dock you launch from, there’s no wrong choice for scenic kayaking in Connecticut. Make a reservation here at Interlaken Inn to test the waters on complimentary kayak rentals for Lake Wonoscopomuc and keep yourself close to the many pristine waterfronts of the Litchfield Hills.