RI Whitewater

RI Whitewater
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Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)

Posted by Mike B. on 3/11/2026, 9:28 am

Going to scout the river(s) today for a possible trip on sat or sun.
Moderate to easy CL-I-II. The Natchauag is a river the RICA WW crews would run every year. Good WW learning river.
Bigelow brook is a semi remote feeder brook into the Natchaug that is very rarely runnable. However this is what makes it special. Quickwater, CL-I, and a couple easy CL-II's. Last run about 10-12 years ago by myself and a group. Well worth it, steep hills, remote paddling. I'll give an update later today 3/11. Also definitely wetsuit/drysuit condition's and an ability to control your canoe or WW kayak in faster moving water. Bigelow flows into the Natchaug for the take-out.

Re: Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)

Posted by Erik on 3/15/2026, 5:15 am, in reply to "Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)"

I'm in - see you there.

Re: Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)

Posted by Mike B. on 3/11/2026, 5:06 pm, in reply to "Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)"

Update, went to check it (Bigelow) and it's running full, and crystal clear from snowpack, with a good amount of snow still to melt in the woods. Take out at Natchaug State Forest is a boat drag/carry on snow, to the upper parking area. (gated) Previous WW and good boat/kayak control necessary. Again, wetsuit, drysuits mandatory, no change of clothes in a dry bag this trip. Also, I'm retired, can go any day of the week. Located in Eastford Ct.

Re: Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)

Posted by Erik on 3/15/2026, 5:26 pm, in reply to "Re: Natchaug /Bigelow brook tentative trip this weekend (sat or sun)"

A few pictures form today's trip

https://www.flickr.com/photos/eckilson/albums/72177720332543352

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