Potomac River/D.C. Section in Washington DC

Trip Overview

The section of the Potomac River from the LBJ Memorial Grove north to Chain Bridge/Little Falls is an easy paddle and provides an interesting variety of sights. When you first enter the river, you will find yourself across from the Washington Mall, which is home to such famous sites as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, both of which you can see from the river. As you paddle upstream, you will pass through Georgetown, which is home to a number of rowing clubs, and you will probably encounter a number of rowing teams training on the river. From Georgetown upstream to Little Falls, the riverbanks are undeveloped, which is a rare treat in such a busy urban environment. The total distance is approximately 6.5 miles each way. Those desiring a shorter paddle may want to put in at Theodore Roosevelt Island.

Directions:

Take the George Washington Memorial Parkway to the LBJ Memorial Grove, which is located between Reagan National Airport and Arlington National Cemetery. Parking is available at the Grove, which is accessible from both the northbound and southbound sides of the parkway.

Launches:

You can launch from the shore on the marina side of the grove. If you wish to start further upriver, you can launch from the parking area at Theodore Roosevelt Island, but the bank is steep and the water has a lot of growth in it.