Between the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Potomac River, and Anacostia River, there are several great kayaking locations in Washington DC and many other lakes and rivers offering both calm and intense kayaking experiences in the surrounding area. In short, kayaking in Washington DC can be a lot of fun for people of all ages and experience levels.
Best Kayaking Locations in Washington DC
Washington DC boasts some really diverse and exciting kayaking locations. With rivers, canals, lakes, and streams both in and around the city, there are numerous kayaking spots to choose from, each offering unique adventures and opportunities. Here are some of the best kayaking spots in DC
1.Potomac River - No mention of kayaking in Washington DC can be complete without talking about the Potomac River. This is one of the city's major waterways and offers all sorts of kayaking fun. With mostly calm waters, it's an ideal spot for families, novice kayakers, or people who simply want to glide along and enjoy the day without the need for any intense paddling. There are some gorgeous views to be found along the river too.
2.Boathouse at Fletcher's Cove - The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal is one of the top kayaking passages in the DC area and this boathouse provides the perfect starting point for a tour along the C&O. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, the canal offers some beautiful scenery with low hanging trees and stunning views.
3.Thompson Boat Center - If you want to take in the sights and monuments of Washington DC by kayak, this is the place to be. The Thompson Boat Center offers kayak rentals and is just a short paddle away from some of the city's biggest landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Kennedy Center, and Georgetown Waterfront Park. This is one of the best ways to experience kayaking in DC
4.National Harbor - For a unique kayaking experience at Washington DC, consider kayaking around National Harbor. The harbor is a beautiful sight from land, but is even more exciting when explored from the water, allowing kayakers to weave around the various lines of boat and take in sites like the Wilson Bridge and Alexandria Waterfront. Kayak rentals are available in this area and various kayaking tours also include little trips around National Harbor.
Kayaking Rentals and Tours in Washington DC
· Terrapin Adventures - Savage Mill, 8600 Foundry Street, Savage, MD 20763 (301 725-1313)
Offering all sorts of outdoor adventure activities including a high ropes course and zip lines, Terrapin Adventures also provides a super nature kayak tour in the Washington DC area. This fun tour is perfectly suited for all ages and experience levels and is led by Terrapin's friendly, entertaining guides, offering fascinating insight on local flora and fauna and providing memories to last a lifetime. For a family-friendly kayaking tour in Washington DC, Terrapin Adventures is the name to choose.
· Active Nature - Poolesville, MD (202 262-5312)
Active Nature is one of the top names to trust when it comes to kayaking in Washington DC Run by Jason Beakes, who used to star in the US Kayak Team, this company provides a range of kayaking and paddleboard tours around the Potomac River. With various tours designed for both beginners and experienced whitewater kayakers, this company lets you live out the kayaking adventures of your dreams in the nation's capital city.
· Potomac Paddlesports - 9812 Falls Rd, Potomac, MD 20854 (301 881-2628)
This independent outdoor store offers all sorts of kayaking gear and equipment as well as lessons, trips, and more along the Potomac River and C&O Canal. Ideal for everyone from amateurs to seasoned kayaking pros, Potomac Paddlesports offers all the instruction and help you need, as well as running some really fun trips with some of DC's most highly-trained and experienced instructors.
