My favorite places to kayak are those with wildlife and interesting landscapes. There are two bodies of water at Bigelow Hollow for kayaking so I compared them. 2020 is my first year kayaking so I have a sit on top big plastic kayak to remain the most sturdy on the water so I can take pictures without fear of getting wet. This visit was in October 2020.
Bigelow Pond
Soon after you enter the park you will find Bigelow Pond. Easy access boat launch on a gravel road with about 15 parking spots.
From the launch you can go right or left to various alcoves around the pond offering many opportunities for fauna, herons and turtles.
Had I more familiarity I’m sure there is much more that others might see.
But for this NYC gal this was a great adventure.
Mashapaug Pond
As this is a lengthy car ride for me to get to I thought I better go and see what the other body of water had to offer. Mashapaug pond is at the end of the park road also with an easy launch access. It was definitely the more popular of the two and the one more often recommended for a true day on the water.
For everyone else I could see why. It was much larger and offered true fun on the water with areas to pull off and have a picnic. For me, it was a windy day so it was harder for me to navigate the kayak and there wasn’t as much wildlife to be found. So apologies as I don’t have pictures there since the wind and current was too strong and choppy. I later read this is considered a more moderate paddle. But it’s awesome for the true water lovers and great in the fall with the changing colors!
So while my vote is door number 1 (Bigelow Pond), you may like door number 2 (Mashapaug Pond).
Breakneck Pond
I definitely will be back to try a hike likely around the third body of water, Breakneck Pond. My understanding is that there is no easy way to launch there so it’s more of a hiking opportunity.
Pivot and Pause in New England 