Submitted by BigEDogJenkins on Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:30
Hello Folks,
I'm looking to take a 2-3 day trip from Ryegate to Hanover. Last year my son and I paddled Kings Island to Harbor Park in Middletown in one day (brutal for newbs). I see that East Wilder allows overnight parking. Is it acceptable/safe to drop car and leave for the trip? Plan on having ride take us up to Ryegate on 8/18/24. Should be taking out on the 20th.
Any recommendations or tips? No tents, hammock camping for us. My son and I will be the only paddlers.
jimgosselin258
Mon, 07/22/2024 - 11:05
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We just did this run!
We just did this run this past weekend (July 19-21) and it was great. The water is fast enough near the Ryegate dam to make easy work of the first 10 miles to the Horse Meadow campsite in Haverhill. The paddle on Saturday from there to Bugbee landing was a work out (we had some head wind) but it was doable. We finished in Orford where we left our chase car over night.
Horse Meadow was a little tough to navigate to as the bank was steep and muddy. It had a picnic table and fire ring with lots of fire wood. Getting into town was a little treacherous as we cut through someone's yard and they yelled at us.
Bugbee was a nice site, but limited fire ring (not sue they even want you to have one...and little firewood options), no picnic table and you're basically in the town boat landing/golf course/ball fields. Better dinning options in this town though.
I would be happy to share our planning docs or answer any other questions on this route, but we thankfully had great weather and even better company. You can reach me at jimgosselin258@yahoo.com
Good luck on your trip!
BigEDogJenkins
Mon, 07/22/2024 - 12:00
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First overnight float
Thank you for the reply! It is very helpful.