About
First Atlantic Salmon Return to Connecticut River System in 100+ Years. Through Middlesex County's forested hills, the Salmon River runs 21 miles of Class I-II water from Day Pond State Park to its confluence with the Connecticut River. At 240 CFS average flow (optimal range 100-600 CFS), the upper section from Day Pond to Comstock Bridge carries the most gradient and technical water, winding through the Salmon River State Forest. Below Comstock Bridge, the gradient eases to Class I as the river enters the lower valley. Main Stream Canoe Corporation operates on this stretch. USGS gauge 01193500 provides current flow data for paddlers timing their runs to the seasonal window when Connecticut's smaller rivers hold enough water.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.