Why you should go kayaking and canoeing in the fall
Each season has its benefits for being out on the river. Spring is a time to watch the mountain redwood bloom. Summer boasts warmer weather and opportunities for swimming. Fall may be the best time of all…
Peak of the fall colors
Autumn is a beautiful time of year, and many people do not consider kayaking in Harpers Ferry during this season. The Mid-Atlantic rivals the northeast for the most beautiful fall foliage in the United States. Viewing the fall colors surrounding Harpers Ferry from the perspective of the river is a unique way to experience the season. The crisp air and clear blue skies accent the falling leaves of oak, sycamore, poplar, and maple. The fall colors in the Shenandoah Valley tend to peak from mid-October to the first week of November. Stay tuned for the West Virginia Live Leaf map to watch for fall colors in our area!
Take the Path Less Traveled
After Labor Day weekend, many outfitters start to slow down and see a natural decline in the number of guests. The fall is the perfect time to get out on the water if you are looking to avoid the busy season. Enjoy the stillness of the river and the beautiful natural scenery surrounding Harpers Ferry. Due to fewer people being out on the water, you have a higher chance of seeing local wildlife. Local birds that are often sighted along the Potomac River and C&O Canal include bald eagles, great blue herons, black vultures, osprey, and double-crested cormorants. Kayaking on the Potomac River is a great place to bird watch. Many birds make their homes along the river due to the abundance of food available.
A More Pleasant Environment
When the weather cools down, many bugs die off or seek warmer locations to live. Fall kayaking means that you won’t be bothered by nearly as many bugs. As the weather gets cooler, the probability of being caught in an afternoon thunderstorm decreases. Weather in the fall is often more stable than it is in the summer with comfortable temperatures and less humidity. The clarity of the water tends to improve. Views of large fish swimming below your boat and the topography of the river bottom are an awesome bonus! Fall can also be a good time to catch striped bass, so bring your fishing pole.
What to wear for fall kayaking
When paddling a kayak or canoe through mellow water, you stay relatively dry. Avoid cotton at all costs. Once it gets wet, it will stay wet and make you cold.
Stick with wool, polyester, fleece, spandex, and anything that is considered a quick dry material. A rain jacket or gore-tex shell is a great layer to wear on top to block wind and keep you dry. A beanie will keep your head and ears warm. Always bring extra layers. Boating is very similar to hiking, you always want to be prepared!
We recommend wearing wool socks with sneakers, water shoes, or sturdy sandals like Chacos or Tevas.
As always we highly recommend bringing a towel and change of clothes to leave in your car. If you choose to go Potomac River Kayaking/Canoeing, we have a bathhouse at Brunswick Family Campground where you can change after your trip.
