The Sugar River is a scenic waterway in western New Hampshire that flows approximately 27 miles from its origin at Lake Sunapee to its confluence with the Connecticut River. This picturesque river winds through Sullivan County, passing the towns of Newport, Kelleyville, and Claremont along its course.

For paddlers, the Sugar River offers a variety of experiences across its three main sections. The Upper Sugar River, from North Newport to Route 103, provides the most challenging whitewater with 3.4 miles of Class II-III rapids and an average gradient of 34 feet per mile. This section is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers with whitewater skills. The Mid Sugar River, from Route 103 to Newport, offers a more relaxed 10-mile stretch of Class II water ideal for beginners and intermediates. The Lower Sugar River continues another 10 miles from Newport to Claremont, maintaining its Class II difficulty.

The river is typically paddled from spring through fall, with optimal water levels usually occurring in April through June after the snowmelt. Late summer and fall can provide pleasant paddling, though water levels may be lower.

The Sugar River is home to a variety of wildlife, including herons, bald eagles, and beavers. Paddlers can enjoy views of covered bridges, historic mill buildings, and the lush forests of the Sugar River valley.

Key access points include the Covered Bridge in North Newport (Upper section put-in), Route 103 Bridge in Kelleyville (Mid section put-in), and Riverside Park on Washington Street in Claremont (Lower section take-out). The nearby Sugar River Recreational Rail Trail provides additional opportunities to explore the river corridor.

The Sugar River played a significant role in the region's industrial history, powering mills in Newport and Claremont. Today, it serves as an important recreational resource for the area.

Paddlers should be aware of potential strainers and low-head dams, particularly in the Upper section. Life jackets are required by state law.

For those seeking a multi-day adventure, it's possible to combine all three sections for a 23-mile journey from North Newport to Claremont, with camping options available along the route. Whether tackling the exciting rapids of the Upper Sugar or enjoying a leisurely float on the lower sections, the Sugar River offers a quintessential New Hampshire paddling experience.