The Ledyard Canoe Club, accessible by foot from Dartmouth's campus or by car (it's a quick turn left right after the Norwich/Hanover bridge), rents canoes to students and visitors alike. The flatwater that stretches for a few miles in either direction of the club is calm enough for novices to feel comfortable navigating.
Paddling down the river affords you great views of foliage in early fall and is a wonderful way to escape the quick pace of campus life in spring and summer. The student staff is friendly and often hosts special events, including morning Pancake Paddles and a Full Moon Paddle.