Salt water paddling

As the weather warms, the water beckons and thoughts of sunlit excursions surface. If the scent of salt air is your preference, nothing gets you closer to the water — other than swimming — than kayaking. There is a public launch into the Saugatuck River in Westport, with a choice of heading north into the narrowing reaches of the river or south into Long Island Sound (check the tides). To get to the Saugatuck launch, follow South Compo Road from the Post Road, and cross Route 136, go under the railroad bridge, and turn right; it’s under the I-95 bridge. Calf Pasture Beach in East Norwalk is at the beginning of the Norwalk Islands Canoe/Kayak Trail and a map is posted there. Many towns allow out-of-towners to launch at their beaches off-season; parking fees may be hefty in season. The Connecticut DEP web site has an interactive launch site page. For a different experience, try the Hudson River, which is tidal and offers spectacular views. Free launch sites are available, including in Peekskill, Cold Spring, and Croton-on-Hudson. Check the weather forecast before venturing out; water temperatures are still chilly in early June and can be dangerous. Remember to wear life vests, hats and sunscreen!

Details

For information on boat launches, visit the Connecticut DEP Web site; for the Norwalk Islands, www.swrpa.org and click on Publications. For information on kayaking on the Hudson River, visit hrwa.org. For information on kayaking safety and etiquette, visit www.connyak.org. For local tide tables visit www.harbortides.com.