Paddling on Spofford Lake & More This Summer!

If you’re looking for a delightful summer escape filled with adventure, relaxation, and quintessential Vermont charm, don’t miss the chance to stay at our Brattleboro, Vermont Bed and Breakfast. From here, there are endless possibilities of things to do, including spending a day paddling on Spofford Lake in New Hampshire or hiking your way through the nearby Chesterfield Gorge, also in New Hampshire. 

Spofford Lake is just a short drive from downtown Brattleboro and is a prime spot for paddling. Whether by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, gliding across the calm, reflective waters provides a refreshing respite from the summer heat. The lake’s clear waters and scenic surroundings make for a picture-perfect moment for contemplation and offers the perfect counterbalance to our often busy, complex lives! Though the allure of the water is hard to pass up, it’s not the only draw to this area.

For those who prefer solid ground beneath their feet, the nearby Chesterfield Gorge presents an excellent hiking opportunity. The trails here offer varying degrees of difficulty, allowing both novice and experienced hikers to find adventure. The Gorge, with its rugged cliffs and lush forest canopy, offers splendid views and perfectly rounds out a day of natural beauty.

These are just two of the many adventures and activities waiting for you in Brattleboro and the broader Southern Vermont area. Consider staying for a while so you can enjoy it all. There’s no better place than our Brattleboro, Vermont Bed and Breakfast. Our comfortable guest rooms and welcoming hospitality offer an exceptional base to explore further and enjoy the area’s many offerings. With additional days at your disposal, the pace can relax, allowing for a deeper exploration of Brattleboro’s artistic community, local cuisine, and the scenic beauty of Vermont. Book your stay today! 

man and woman kayaking at sunset on Spofford Lake in New Hampshire

Paddle on Spofford Lake near Brattleboro

We love paddling on the Retreat Meadow and the West Connecticut River, just behind our Vermont Inn, but that’s one of the many great places to paddle in Vermont this summer. Spofford Lake is just across the border in New Hampshire, about a fifteen-minute drive from our Inn. Spofford Lake serves as an inviting destination for paddling and boating enthusiasts. This pristine lake, tucked away in the Monadnock region, offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a range of aquatic activities. 

Spofford Lake offers several coves and islands that provide interesting nooks to explore, making it an engaging experience for beginners and seasoned paddlers. One of the many highlights of paddling on Spofford Lake is Pierce Island State Park. The park encompasses a 5-acre island densely wooded with Hemlock and other trees and offers a scenic respite amidst this beautiful lake. The island provides a fantastic bird habitat, including our nesting loons and local eagles. No services are available on the island beyond a boat ramp, but there are hiking trails and even some wild blueberries that you can pick during the summer.

The best place to launch your kayak is from Wares Cove Beach, which is open to the public. This is also a fantastic place for picnicking and swimming, as the beach is sandy and the water is shallow for quite a ways. There’s also a public boat launch on Spofford Lake, which is perfect for motorized boating. The lake’s ample size makes it just as great for paddling as it does for boating and fishing. The surrounding views of lush greenery and distant hills enhance the experience, creating a picturesque backdrop that changes with the hours.

You can rent canoes and kayaks locally in Brattleboro. Visitors to Spofford Lake can also benefit from the nearby amenities, including picnic areas, hiking trails, and local eateries. The lake’s proximity to other regional attractions makes it a convenient place to spend an afternoon during your weekend getaway in Brattleboro.

fall foliage and a waterfall at Chesterfield Gorge, NH near our Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast

Hike at Chesterfield Gorge, NH

While we love spending time on Spofford Lake, it’s only one of the outings we recommend in the Chesterfield area. Another interesting place to explore is Chesterfield Gorge, NH. The Chesterfield Gorge State Natural Area is a fantastic place to enjoy an afternoon of light hiking in the Brattleboro area. This beautiful natural area is a small but scenic 13-acre park created over the centuries by water erosion. It’s one of the best hidden gems in New Hampshire and, like Spofford Lake, is just a short 15-minute drive from our Vermont Inn. 

Chesterfield Gorge features dramatic rock walls and the swift, clear waters of Wilde Brook. The hiking trails at Chesterfield Gorge range from easy to moderate in difficulty, making it an excellent place for various hikers. Each trail takes you through different parts of the Chesterfield Gorge, giving you differing perspectives of the gorge’s impressive cliffs and the diverse ecosystem surrounding them. Spring and early summer reveal a lush greenery, while autumn transforms the area into a vibrant palette of golds, oranges, and reds. 

As you meander the trails at Chesterfield Gorge, NH, you’ll encounter beautiful cascades and waterfalls as Wilde Brook makes its way through the narrow gorge. As you hike, watch for diverse plant and animal life, too. For those looking to extend their adventure, you’ll find more terrific hikes in the area, including the nearby Pisgah State Park and the popular Madame Sherri Forest in Brattleboro. 

Of course, our Vermont Inn is your perfect home base for all your adventures in Brattleboro, from the adventurous to the relaxing. We offer six guest rooms, a daily breakfast, exceptional amenities, and top-notch hospitality. Book your stay at our beautiful and historic Vermont Inn today!

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