KAYAKING INFO
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KAYAKING ADVENTURES INFORMATION
After hiking, discover Vermont’s unspoiled waterways by drifting down a beautiful section of a river, flat-water pond or lake. Central Vermont has many great areas to tour by kayak. Looking for a scenic paddle or a view from a different perspective? Kayaks are perfect vehicles for spotting wildlife or as a way to spend a beautiful afternoon. ATA’s adventures are intended to be fun, making the most of every trip.
Our guided kayaking adventures are very flexible, to suit all ability levels, with beginners especially welcome. We have top-quality kayaks that are very stable and maneuverable, and all equipment is provided, including personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles and dry bags. Our professional guides coach you and go over paddle techniques during the trip to help improve your skills. If you are new to kayaking, we can give you our lake introduction to kayaking and paddle techniques.
The typical afternoon kayak adventure consists of a 1- to 3-hour flat-water lake paddle or a more adventurous river paddle. We can personalize any trip that you would like to try. (Please note that during drought conditions the river levels may be too low to run.)
The Killington region has five lakes, which vary in size, character and jaw-droppingly beautiful views of Mother Nature’s majesty. In addition, there are five rivers we run regularly, all with different personalities, from flat moving water to Class II rapids for the experienced kayaker. Our most popular river trip is a very fun 2-hour, 3-mile trip on flat moving water with no technical rapids, along a scenic section of the local river.
Lakes
woodstock river
upper winding river
lower winding river
Chittenden Reservoir
Just 20 minutes away is ATA’s premiere lake location with a jaw-dropping view. The Chittenden Reservoir is a 741-acre lake surrounded by Green Mountain National Forest; it is two miles across at the widest point. With over a 7-mile shoreline, it has many coves and small bays ideal for exploring by kayak. The deepest spot in the reservoir is 40 feet. The reservoir was completed in 1909 by damming East Creek for power-generating purposes. Chittenden Reservoir is extremely popular with outdoor lovers. The lake and surrounding forest are home to many animals, including moose, loons, bald eagles, osprey, beavers, black ducks, mergansers, black bears, white-tailed deer, red foxes, river otters and many more.
Lefferts Pond
efferts Pond covers over 50 acres, is 10 to 12 feet deep, and is located in the Green Mountain National Forest. Lefferts Pond is a beautiful body of water that provides a magnificent view of Pico Peak. It is a bird lover’s paradise, with more than 115 species tallied. As a bonus, moose, otter, beaver and mink are frequently seen around the pond. Moose-watching is a favorite among those visiting the area.
Kent Pond
The beautiful local Kent Pond takes approximately an hour to kayak, covering 71 acres, with a maximum depth of 15 feet, making this ideal for beginners and first-timers. The pond itself, although relatively small and a popular fishing site from both the impoundment and by boat, has provided several surprises for bird enthusiasts. The man-made impoundment is at an elevation of 1560 feet, with views of Pico and Killington Peaks. In 1959, the Vermont Parks Department purchased property as part of a program of building fishing ponds in the state of Vermont. In 1965 Kent Brook was dammed to create Kent Pond; the lake was stocked and open for fishing.
Upper Winding River
Guests favorite adventure lasting 1- to 2-hour depending on group size is a fun 2 miles of flat calm water, with no technical rapids, along a very scenic section of the local river with beaver dams to paddle over. Very little to no paddling experience is needed for this river, making it perfect for families and first timers.
Middle Winding River
The 1- to 1.5-hour middle winding river is a fun, 1-mile section of flat moving water, with no technical rapids, along a scenic river with beaver dams to paddle over. This narrow river has obstacles such as tree branches to avoid, making it fun to paddle. Very little paddling experience is needed for this section.
Lower Winding River
The 1- to 1.5-hour lower winding river is a fun, 2-mile section of flat moving water, with no technical rapids, along a scenic section of the local river with beaver dams to paddle over. This river is a little wider than middle section and has obstacles such as tree branches to avoid, making it fun to paddle. Very little paddling experience is needed for this section.
Middle and Lower Winding River Combined
Guests second favorite river, the 2-hour upper and lower sections is a fun, 3-mile section of flat moving water, with no technical rapids, along a scenic part of the local river with beaver dams to paddle over. This narrow river has obstacles such as tree branches to avoid, making it fun to paddle. Very little paddling experience is needed for this river.
Woodstock River
The 2-hour Woodstock River is a fun, 3.5-mile stretch of flat moving water, with no technical rapids, along a scenic section of a much wider river.
Whitewater River
For those seeking a real adventure, John’s favorite river contains white-water rapids from class I to II, with a very fun flume paddlers just love. Paddling experience is needed for this white-water river. With multiple put-in and take-out locations, any duration can be requested, even trips with a picnic lunch at a swimming hole. We provide kayaks, spray skirts, paddles, PFDs, dry bags and helmets.
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Contact Us
Call or Text: 1-802-347-4343
Mailing: PO Box 394, Killington, VT 05751
Hours: Open 7 days a week from 7:00am-8:45pm