First trip of 2026! Finally made it up to the White River main stem. Lower than expected water levels (976 cfs, 4.5 ft on the West Hartford gauge; 43 cfs, 3 ft on Ayers Brook gauge) forced a slight change in plans to paddle the middle section of the White River from Bethel-to-South Royalston instead of the Stockbridge-to-Bethel stretch which is only recommended at 1200+ cfs. After launching from Peavine Park and passing under the Rt 107 bridge, you hit a couple of Class 1+ rapids in the first mile of the trip, got a little wet on them which felt very good on this warm 84F June day. Also had to stop and drain the kayak to maintain optimal balance. Saw several families swimming riverside and a bald eagle fly straight overhead. The second half of the trip you hear more road noise from nearby I-89 but the river was beautiful, clear, smooth and wide. At this water level you just need to pay attention to where the deep water is and avoid gravel bars. One last rocky Class II rapid just under the South Royalton bridge keeps you focused. Highly recommend this trip!
