Living in Old Lyme

Looking for a unique way to connect with nature in Old Lyme, CT? The Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an exceptional opportunity to explore its stunning ecosystem from a whole new perspective – by water! This guided paddling tour allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of one of Connecticut’s most precious natural areas while learning about its ecological importance. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or simply curious about local wildlife, this event promises an unforgettable journey through one of our area’s noteworthy locations.

Immersive Refuge Experience

The guided paddling tour at Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge takes you on a serene 3.5-mile round-trip journey down the Menunketesuck River. As you glide through the peaceful waters, you’ll gain a unique vantage point of the salt marsh habitat that simply can’t be experienced from land. The perspective from the water level offers a direct connection with this delicate ecosystem, allowing you to observe wildlife in their natural behavior patterns without disruption. The rhythmic paddling creates a meditative experience, connecting participants with the natural flow of the refuge in a way that walking trails simply cannot match.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the abundance of species that call this refuge home. Previous paddling expeditions have revealed an impressive array of wading birds, including great blue herons, black-crowned night herons, green herons, great egrets, and snowy egrets hunting in the shallow waters. The real highlight for many participants is the opportunity to witness remarkable birds of prey in action. Osprey can often be seen plummeting from the sky to catch fish, while the bald eagle has been spotted soaring above the marsh. The salt marsh ecosystem serves as a critical habitat for these creatures, and experiencing their natural behaviors from the water provides a profound appreciation for this vital environment.

Essential Planning Information

This special event begins at the Kirtland Landing boat launch, conveniently located at 50 Old Clinton Road (Route 145). Participants should look for the parking area near the bridge crossing the Menunketesuck River. The tour group will meet at 9:30 AM, allowing for optimal wildlife viewing conditions during the morning hours when many species are most active. Registration is limited to just 10 vehicles to minimize environmental impact and ensure a quality experience for all participants, though multiple kayaks or canoes can be transported per vehicle. This exclusive nature of the event creates an intimate group setting where questions can be asked and a deeper connection with the environment can be fostered.

Participants must bring their own kayak or canoe for this self-propelled adventure, along with the required personal flotation device (PFD) – no exceptions for safety reasons. Don’t forget to pack binoculars and cameras to capture close-up views of wildlife that might otherwise remain distant blurs. The tour proceeds in most weather conditions, but may be canceled in case of inclement weather – participants should check the event website or Friends of Outer Island Facebook page by 8:00 AM on the scheduled date for any cancellation notices. Sponsored by Friends of Outer Island in cooperation with the refuge, this free guided experience offers exceptional value for nature enthusiasts looking to explore this protected area from a new perspective.