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What Towns are at the Mouth of the Connecticut River?

Published in Connecticut Geography 2 mins read

The towns located at the mouth of the Connecticut River, where it flows into Long Island Sound, are Old Saybrook and Old Lyme, Connecticut.

The Connecticut River's Estuary

The Connecticut River is the longest river in New England, stretching 410 miles (660 km) from its source near the Canadian border to its mouth at Long Island Sound. Its estuary is a vital ecological and historical area, uniquely positioned between two distinct towns on opposite banks.

Here are key details about the Connecticut River's mouth:

Feature Detail
Mouth Long Island Sound
Location Old Saybrook and Old Lyme, Connecticut
Coordinates 41°16′20″N 72°20′03″W
River Length 410 mi (660 km)

Old Saybrook and Old Lyme: Gateways to the Sound

These two historic towns mark the final stretch of the Connecticut River's journey, offering picturesque coastal landscapes and significant maritime heritage.

  • Old Saybrook, situated on the west bank of the river, is known for its deep-water harbor and historic Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse. It has a rich past, including being the site of one of the earliest colonial settlements in Connecticut.
  • Old Lyme, on the east bank, is celebrated for its artistic heritage, particularly as the home of the American Impressionist art colony. It offers serene views of the river and sound, with pristine marshlands.

Together, Old Saybrook and Old Lyme form the gateway where the freshwaters of the Connecticut River merge with the saline waters of Long Island Sound, creating a unique ecosystem and a crucial area for navigation and recreation. The river's mouth is a designated National Estuarine Research Reserve, highlighting its ecological importance.

For more information on the river, you can visit the Connecticut River Wikipedia page.