Advanced Beginner to Low Intermediate (Class II-III)

Shenandoah Staircase | North Branch of the Potomac | Lehigh

Shenandoah Staircase
Advanced Beginner / Low Intermediate (Class II-III)

Only a couple of hours driving from DC, the Shenandoah is a great first river to explore. This is a river of ledges, some higher, which will require scouting before running, and others smaller forming small hydraulics which are great fun to play.

You will drive home with a wealth of memories of paddling and playing the river and a lot of practice rolling. The flow of the Shenandoah is not dam controlled, so trips are dependent upon sufficient rain fall.

Cost: $100

North Branch of the Potomac
Advanced Beginner / Low Intermediate (Class II-III)

The North Branch, about 2.5 hours outside of D.C., beyond Cumberland, MD, is just maybe a slight notch more difficult than the Shenandoah. The dam-released water is fast and quite cold, even in the summer. You should be well dressed in order to fully enjoy the waves and surfing spots down this small headwaters of the Potomac River. AW information

Cost: $120

Lehigh
Low Intermediate (Class II-III)

With many sections to choose from the Pennylvania favorite has something for everyone. With regular summer releases it is a paddling paradise, factor in the many bike trails and parks nearby it makes a great weekend outing. Located in northeast PA approximately 4.5 hrs away makes an ideal escape from DC.

This river is great for low intermediate paddlers looking for more experience before venturing onto the Lower Yough. AW information

Cost: Day trip $120/ Weekend Trip $240