Where to go Kayaking in Vermont This Summer

With mountain streams and lakes everywhere, there are plenty of places to enjoy a quiet, relaxed summer afternoon kayaking in Vermont. There are whitewater and flatwater sections to paddle, depending on what kind of adventure you’re looking for, and it’s all surrounded by the verdant beauty Vermont is known for. In and around Brattleboro, you’ll find plenty of great places to enjoy a paddle, and there are local guides and outfitters standing by to help. 

Of course, kayaking in Vermont is just one way to enjoy your summer getaways. Southern Vermont offers visitors a quintessential New England experience. With its vibrant arts scene, quaint shops, and local eateries, Brattleboro is a welcoming home base that offers easy access to the best of the Green Mountain State. Whether exploring the many historic charms of downtown Brattleboro or spending some time reconnecting with nature, a summer spent with us will be the delightful retreat from the everyday grind you’ve been craving. 

Unwind in style at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in Vermont. Our historic, upscale Vermont Inn offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury with beautifully appointed rooms and exceptional service. Guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients before heading out for the day’s adventure. Or, you can sit back, relax, and take in the Inn’s peaceful ambiance. The choice is yours – but be sure to book your summer escape before it’s too late. Book your room at our Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast today! 

Close up of a kayak while enjoying the best kayaking in Vermont

Nearby Places for Kayaking in Vermont

Whether getting out on the water is a focal point for your summer adventure or you’re just looking for casual things to do during your getaway, there are plenty of great nearby places to enjoy some nearby kayaking in Vermont. Whether it’s quiet lakes, meandering rivers, or Vermont’s State Parks, getting out on the water will put you right in the middle of some of Vermont’s most storied scenery.

Aside from being beautiful, kayaking in Vermont is also a great way to disconnect from your daily stressors. The rhythmic sound of your paddle cutting through the water becomes meditative, grounding you in the moment and letting you unwind in a deep and restorative way. It’s one of our favorite ways to enjoy Mother Nature at her finest. 

There are some lovely places to enjoy kayaking near Brattleboro, including the West River that’s just behind our Inn. We’ve offered more details on each area below. 

  • The West River is prime kayaking in Vermont, and it’s right in our back yard. It’s a 53-mile tributary that empties into the Connecticut River and offers gentle currents for both novice and experienced paddlers. The scenery is beautiful, too! 
  • You can also easily access a great segment of the West River at Jamaica State Park, about 40 minutes from our Inn. This segment of the river is well-used and great for those seeking some whitewater rapids. Whitewater is usually released here twice a year for recreational whitewater. At other times of year, the water here is calm and perfect for kayaking in Vermont. 
  • Brattleboro is located at the confluence of the West and Connecticut Rivers, so you can also hop in a boat and head out on the Connecticut River. This kayaking adventure offers expansive views and a chance to observe even more diverse wildlife along its banks. The water is usually calm, but it can have more intense currents than the West River. 
  • Spofford Lake, just a short drive from Brattleboro, is a pristine body of water perfect for a leisurely paddle.

You’re welcome to bring your own boats with you if you plan to do a lot of kayaking or canoeing, but you can also rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards just down the road from us at Vermont Canoe Touring Center

Relax in the gardens at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast in Brattleboro

The Perfect Place to Relax in Brattleboro

Spend your days leisurely kayaking in Vermont, or head to nearby parks and trails for an afternoon of hiking, biking, and more. There are so many fantastic things to do in Brattleboro this summer, and it will all be at your fingertips when you stay with us at our charming Vermont Inn. Whether you want to spend your days unplugged and enjoying downtown with your partner or out adventuring in the area, our Bed and Breakfast is a wonderful place to rest, recharge, and explore.

We offer guests four guest rooms in the main house and two suites in the separate carriage house. All guest rooms are unique and tastefully decorated and include a welcome set of amenities, such as generous queen beds with luxuriously soft bedding, seating areas, private bathrooms, and more. Some rooms even have private fireplaces. In the morning, we’ll treat you to a delicious, made-from-scratch breakfast, which can be enjoyed in our dining room, in one of our common areas, or outside in our beautiful gardens.

Speaking of our gardens, they are truly exquisite, offering a quiet oasis away from noise. There are various seating areas to enjoy, or you can take a quiet walk in nature. The Retreat Trails offer miles of walking paths and can be accessed directly from our back yard. 

We’ve curated every aspect of the guest experience, and we think you’ll notice the difference the moment you pull up in front of our stately Inn. This summer, we invite you to enjoy the best of Vermont with us. Book your stay today! 

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