I started kayaking in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. Bantam River was one of the first places I paddled. I park at Whites Wood Road to put in.
Normally I go left into Bantam Lake. Reason being that on the right there’s a beaver dam that I could never get over.
With a lot of recent rain I decided to give it a try on Labor Day 2021. Eureka! I easily went over that Beaver Dam and had a perfect day to paddle to Little pond as well as under a series of bridges to the golf course.
I was surprised to see the leaves already start changing!
I always enjoy the waters reflection of the sky and clouds. 4-5 bridges along the route also offered its image in the water. Somehow the world just pieces together when I see that.
Wave to the golf cart!
TIP: Whites Wood Road Parking lot is small so I generally go on this paddle on a weekday when I can. However you can drop off and park down the road and walk or bike back (yes with a lock to lock your bike). It’s worth the effort.
Here’s a link to the spot on Whites Wood road as many have asked.
https://goo.gl/maps/N8Wd7PXv2FMaGLuv9
I followed this paddle with a short hike up nearby Mount Tom. Perfect day.
https://btographytravels.com/2021/09/06/ct-litchfield-county-mount-tom-state-park/
Pivot and Pause in New England 