Upper Potomac River, Cumberland MD

Text: Tony Pisarra

From its source northwest of Cumberland, MD to its sharp descent at Harper's Ferry some 65 miles east, the Potomac is a narrow winding river with a slow but powerful current cutting through towering palisades and the rolling foothills of Western Maryland.

The upper Potomac provides a series of dramatic (though not especially challenging) trips for intermediate paddlers, hikers and mountain bikers. River features include frequent gravel skiffles and the occasional standing wave (Class 1 and 2).

Ample primitive "hiker/biker" sites are available along the C&O Canal National Historic Site which shadows the Potomac from Cumberland 184.5 miles east to Washington D.C.

The C&O Canal operated from 1828-1924 as a transportation route, primarily hauling coal from western Maryland to the port of Georgetown in Washington, D.C. The Site includes hundreds of original structures, including locks, lockhouses, and aqueducts, serve as reminders of the canal's role as a transportation system during the Canal Era. In addition, the canal's towpath provides a nearly level, continuous trail through the spectacular scenery of the Potomac River Valley.

Hiker/biker sites are provided at regular intervals (generally 4-5 miles) on the upper Potomac. The sites typically include several discrete camping areas, hand pumped well water, tow path and/or river access. Sites are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Details are available from: Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Site