Four miles of the Potomac River downstream of Harpers Ferry attract thousands of whitewater enthusiasts in spring and early summer. The Potomac is the most gentle whitewater run in the central Appalachians. Rafters will encounter only one Class III rapid on this section of the river. Raft trips on the Potomac, as on the adjacent Shenandoah River, are suited to groups with younger and older members.
A Potomac rafting trip usually lasts two hours, depending upon stream flow. By mid-summer, water levels have usually decreased beyond the point at which rafts can be floated over the stream bed, and most raft trips are thereafter guided on the Shenandoah.
Lodging near Potomac Rafting Area
Rafting Area Location
The Potomac River whitewater rafting area is located in the Eastern Panhandle Region. Further information on lodging, dining, travel, and recreation may be found by exploring the regional information.
Map of Potomac River Rafting Area
Expeditions on the Potomac River generally launch off Bakerstown Road upstream of Harpers Ferry and end above the US-340 bridge off Sandy Hook Road in Maryland. Outfitters then transport rafters back to base camps.
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