Canoeing in DC

Canoeing Trips in DC

The Potomac River runs right through the city and offers a unique way to tour and experience the nation's capital! Find canoeing trips in Washington, DC for every level of canoeist. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, kayak rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a canoeing trip in DC for you. If you've paddled here before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket


- Brought to you by the Water Sports Foundation and the SFRBTF administered by the U.S. Coast Guard -

Guide to Canoeing in DC

Washington, D.C. has many bays and islands to explore in Chesapeake Bay and on the Potomac River. It's waiting for you to explore it and have an adventure! Read on for guides to planning your own canoeing trip to Washington, D.C., seeking out an outfitted trip, connecting with other Washington, D.C. paddlers, and many other resources! Popular canoeing areas of interest include:

  • Potomac River
  • National Harbor
  • Chesapeake Bay

Canoeing Locations in DC

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in DC! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Canoeing Trip in DC

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled around Washington, D.C. and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of Washington, D.C. community trip reports below:

Have you paddled near Washington, D.C.? Post Your Trip and share with the community!

Connect with Canoeists in DC

Looking to connect with other paddlers in Washington, D.C.? Below are resources to help get you started: