help_outline Skip to main content

Trip Reports

GW Canal - August 12, 2018
Wayne McDaniel
With the Potomac River finally starting to recede to more typical levels (4.43' on the Little Falls gauge), the Sunday paddlers returned to the GW Canal after a lengthy absence - Gary & Ginny Q, Glenn D, Louise S, Pam W, Scott R, Tijen & Berke B, Tim T, and Wayne McD. Grey clouds but no rain. A generally uneventful run although at slalom rapid a submerged tree branch rose up and snatched an unsuspecting paddler who spilled. Following the onslaught of floods recently there are a couple of new developments to report:
  • A large tree has established what appears to be semi-permanent residence in the center of jacuzzi rapid. However, there are clear lines on both left and right.
  • Mysteriously, a new rapid has emerged a couple of hundred yards downstream from jacuzzi rapid - a Class I+ drop. With today's water it could be run either left or right; at lower levels it could become problematic.
  • The Muddy Branch takeout to the Pennyfield Lock parking lot has become a maze with four or five large trees partially blocking the creek. It could be navigated today, but, again, may become difficult at lower levels.
Return to Forum