Boston Kayaker

Kayaking on Winooski River - from Middlesex VT to Waterbury VT Unrated - The Boston Kayaker does not have enough information or time to make a rating.   Put in Route 100B   in Middlesex VT. Take out at Waterbury Rec Field on   Winooski Street in Waterbury VT. Estimated distance   = 5 miles Hugo   Rapid Junkyard Rapids. Scout   first and may portage. Rapids at both   sides of island.   Community Park   - alternate put in River name came from Abenaki   word meaning "wild onion". Mad River enters   on river left. Middlesex   Dam Putnam State   Forest   Disclaimer: It is your responsibility to determine the legality, suitability and safety of this route for yourself.

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Other resources: Friends of the Winooski Friends of the Winooski: Paddling Guide (16mb pdf), see pages 16 to 17 Friends of the Winooski: Paddling Guide (cached copy) Excerpts from Friends of the Winnooski Paddling Guide (page 17): Difficulty: Intermediate Description: This section of the Winooski features a variety of landscapes including the Middlesex Gorge, woodlands and rock escapements. The Mad River meets up with the Winooski shortly after the put in at the Middlesex Dam. Rapids/Obstacles: Shortly after the put in is the Hugo Rapid, which is caused by a rock constricting the channel. In high water, it is a very large wave. About ½ mile after the Mad River enters from the left, paddlers will encounter Junkyard Rapids. When approaching Junkyard Rapids hug the left shore and scout the rapid to determine your course. There is a relatively short portage over the rocks on the left. Put Ins: At the Middlesex Dam Powerhouse on Rte 100B on the south side of the river. Follow the portage signs to parking and then the trail down to the river. Community Park Access: This small park is located close to Majestic Auto. The trail to the river is very steep. Moretown Access: The access is shortly past the confluence with the Mad River. Take Out(s): Rt 2 Bridge as you enter Waterbury: On the left just after you pass under the bridge. Waterbury Recreation Fields: Take out is on the right, near the mouth of Thatcher Brook.