Norton Reservoir Retreat

Pirates Paddling by Lisa Rubini

Our "paddling club" has now been renamed "The Pirates of the Charles River" thanks to our matey, Earl!   We are still meeting on Thursday evenings when the weather cooperates (which hasn't been often this summer season).  Because we have been stormed out the past several Thursday evenings, we decided to spend a Saturday morning and depart from our beloved Charles and head over to the Norton Reservoir.  

The dreary start to the day did not ward us off.  Five 'pirates' decided to take a chance with the clouds and launch at a spot near Tsang's Restaurant off Route 140.  Launching was easy off the sandy area and we paddled our way through the lily pads which were donned with white and pink blossoms.  

Lilly Pads by Lisa Rubini

The Reservoir, which is actually in Norton and Mansfield, is a quiet place for fishing, boating and kayaking.  This 530 acre area is home to all kinds of wildlife.  We spotted swans  swimming in large groups as well as Canada Geese with their goslings.  Nearby many Mallards milled about. A great blue heron was seen among the weeds doing his own fishing while seagulls flew above. Even Fish and turtles could be seen poking their heads out of the clear water as if to say 'hello' as we passed by.

We cut through a couple of the islands and headed to the far edge of the reservoir and made our way around the perimeter and through some coves.  Beautiful homes and forest gave us the feel we were in some New Hampshire resort area.  We spent 2 hours paddling and gabbing.  Although the day never cleared, we weren't rained on which was an extra bonus.

While exploring the eastern edge of the reservoir we found a spot where there is a dam.  The unmistakable sound of rushing water told us to be wary.  We paddled closer and thought our eyes deceived us as it looked as if we could pass right through.  Upon closer inspection we realized that indeed this was a dam.  Not wanting to get too close, we continued past this area and continued on our way.

The water itself was shallow and clean and all kinds of growth was visible. Much of the reservoir seems enshrouded with aquatic vegetation. Some even ending up on the paddle!

We rounded out our outing with a visit to Tsang's for a quick bite and a chance to talk about our paddle.

If you're interested in trying out the Norton Reservoir but don't own your own kayak, why not check out the Norton Kayak Company run by a fellow Walpolian, Dave Lennon.




View Larger Map