Top U.S. Flatwater: New England

A glowing sunset (Corel)

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The Connecticut River divides New Hampshire from Vermont—something for which the residents of both states are grateful. The river then flows down through Massachusetts and its namesake state, before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The Connecticut is an old waterway, long-used by colonists and Indians before them. You'll find much evidence of human settlement: dams, farms, towns, traces of logging. But you can find many wild stretches, particularly in the northern reaches.

Wildlife viewers might want to consult the Silvio O.Conte National Wildlife Refuge for areas that are particularly good for wildlife. Habitats to explore include bogs, spruce and fir forests, freshwater wetlands, and the edge zones around farmlands and townships. Camping is possible at many sites along the way, making this a classic canoe journey.