This paddle begins with a portage of about a third of a mile but the extra effort pays off with the benefit of solitude. This pond located in the White Mountains has about two miles of shoreline to explore in a lush woodland setting of hardwoods and evergreens. Of course given the hike there are no powerboats on Mountain Pond, in fact they are restricted, adding to the peace and quiet. There is a lean-to on the north side of the pond should you desire an overnight outing.

Upper Kimball Pond is a good place to observe wildlife and has a healthy loon population. It has almost three miles of shoreline to explore much of still in a natural state. Powerboats are restricted to having a 10 Hp motor or less so this pond is generally quiet and wake free.

Conway Lake is surrounded by rolling woodlands and offers over 8 miles of shoreline to explore. The northernmost portion of the lake has a large amount of residential development but as you travel south you see fewer and fewer lake homes and wildlife viewing opportunities increases. Basic services are available in nearby Center Conaway.

This bit of river is certainly not for the novice. The first three miles from the put-in is filled with class IV rapids requiring advanced skills and an appropriate amount of scouting particularly as you approach the Loon Mountain Rapids; pull out above Loon Mountain Bridge, visible by mile 2.4. Beyond Loon Mountain the river becomes even more technical for over a mile. At river mile 4 there is a portage on river left over an old dam. After passing through North Woodstock the waters mellow from class III to II+ providing a “mellow” run-out for the final four miles into Woodstock.

This paddle makes an excellent day on the water at medium flow levels; contact local authorities for current river levels. You’ll encounter quickwater and mild rapids of class I or II. The banks of this section of river are largely unspoiled and development in this river valley is fairly unobtrusive. The take out is easy to spot as it’s at a historic covered bridge on Blair Road.