Learn to Paddle

Learning to paddle is great way to find fun, fitness and adventure on the Potomac River!

Paddle sports are also the only safe and legal way to enjoy the Potomac river, as swimming is prohibited in the Potomac gorge. The first step towards becoming a paddler is to take a lesson with a club or kayaking school. Below is a list of Potomac Whitewater Festival partners that are great resources for getting training and information about paddle sports.

The Potomac River is a dynamic, constantly changing environment and all paddlers need to have up to date information on current conditions for the stretch of river they are planning to paddle. Please refer to the resources on this page to get the information and training you need to have a safe and enjoyable experience paddling on the Potomac.