Wild and Scenic, Pawcatuck River- Quad Town Kayak Trail Launch

This past weekend representatives from the Town of Stonington, North Stonington, Westerly and Hopkinton celebrated the launch of the Lower Pawcatuck River Quad Town Canoe and Kayak Trail.

Stretching out along our two states of CT and RI, and finally releasing into Little Narragansett Bay, the Wild and Scenic Pawcatuck River is a natural treasure in our community. After years of efforts from many individuals representing our four Towns, it was wonderful to officially launch this trail. 

Thanks are due to the North Stonington Conservation Commission who took the lead on the project, as well as the strong collaboration with the Westerly Conservation Commission, Hopkinton Conservation Commission and Stonington Economic Development Commission. Further, this would not have been possible without support from the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. One of the biggest challenges in setting up the trail, was the fact that North Stonington did not have a water access point of their own.

The Mashantucket Pequot Chairman Rodney Butler, was incredibly supportive and worked with the Town of North Stonington to provide public access.

In total there are six sites for entering or leaving the river, with the option of extending your time on the river by going the additional 5 miles to Napatree Point, and returning.

Another wonderful benefit of exiting at Donahue Park is the option to go into the downtown village of Pawcatuck, where kayakers are encouraged to spend some time.

Copies of a brochure that includes a map of the trail are available at various locations around Stonington, including Town Hall, and a copy can be found attached. 

Please consider taking your own trip down the river, and share the brochure with friends, family and neighbors. We are really hopeful that residents and visitors alike will be able to enjoy what the wild and scenic nature of our river.