Highlighting - East Potomac Park, DC
This Highlighting review is brought to you by the most stoked paddler in Maryland, Ellison Smith. Ellison (pictured below) brings the vibe, he brings the stoke, and sometimes he brings the snacks. Ellison also is a local SUP organizer for Maryland SUP and Kayak Meet-Up Flotilla Tortilla, be sure to follow for more meet-ups. Thank you, Ellison, for your Highlight review of our first DC location.
Ohio Drive SW, Washington DC
You can easily spend an entire day solo or with friends from dawn to dusk on this fun-filled, dare we say historic waterway. Park anywhere along Ohio Drive in the designated areas and unload your gear on the grass. Start by exploring the 400-acre man-made island’s numerous amenities, including mini golf, swimming, and tennis located across Ohio Drive from the launch. Bike or take a walk/run on the trails, fishing is also permitted in the area. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, adjacent to the Tidal Basin is a short walk, under 395 and 14th Street to the north end of the island.
The free parking and bathroom area before you launch are easy to find. The launch consists of an elevated walkway that leads to a floating dock. This is a stop on the Jitney route, a ferry over the Washington Channel, to and from The Wharf DC. Part of the dock is specifically for paddle craft use. The channel is 2 miles long and runs parallel to the Potomac River.
An enjoyable 6-mile round trip paddle for intermediate to advanced paddlers is to head up to the Yards Marina for lunch before heading back to the car. This route is not ideal for novice paddlers or beginners due to the increased boat traffic. Start by paddling south towards Hains Point, turn left at the mouth of the Anacostia River, and travel northeast upriver under the Frederick Douglas Memorial Bridge, past Nats Park on the left to the Yards Marina. The ideal launch time is before 9:30 AM, prior to increased boat traffic in the area. Be alert for tour boats, water taxis, and yachts. Always check wind speed and direction because this can increase the difficulty level. The most challenging part can be at the south end of the channel, as you go left around Greenleaf Point, where the National War College stands.
On the Anacostia River, water quality has much improved over recent years due to increased awareness and funding for restoration efforts. Along the way, take in the sights and sounds of military and rescue aircraft in the sky and the Frederick Douglas Memorial Bridge as you see the Navy Yard skyline arise which includes Nationals Park. Yards Park Marina is not hard to find from there. The public dock is immediately to the right of the long pier for boats. A big grassy open area can be seen behind it from the water.
Enjoy all of what Yards Park has to offer! The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail has water features including a waterfall, not to mention all the various dining establishments. My favorite of which is Dacha Beer Garden where I can take in a game when my favorite teams are playing.
On your return journey, it's advised to check the forecast again before heading out. If you're looking for more miles, head upriver past Poplar Point on the right, to the 695 bridge before turning around to head back to the launch. Upon your return, Wharf DC has lots to explore as well. One of my favorite things to do is to catch part of a movie from my SUP. Movies can be seen on the water when playing at Sunset Cinema (a summer movie attraction from the District Wharf). Perhaps post-paddle libations at Cantina Babina or a show at The Anthem is what you prefer. No need to try and fit in everything on one visit though because there's so much to do on this route. I love this tour because you can incorporate an array of exciting activities all while on a tour of DC.
Disclaimer - this post contains affiliate links that help support this blog at no cost to you. Additionally, this entire article is based on the understanding that you have basic Stand Up Paddling safety knowledge and awareness; always wear your PFD and leash, and paddle with a friend and within your limits.
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