Harpers Ferry River Access (WV/VA/MD)
American Whitewater worked with local paddlers and agency planners in 2014-2016 to create a river access plan for the Harpers Ferry, WV area. Two popular and scenic class III whitewater runs on the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers converge in Harper's Ferry, yet there are only 3 public parking spaces at the take-out and the only public put ins are far upstream on both rivers. The plan is the result of an outstanding effort by our members and partners, and we are now working to improve river access opportunities based on the plan. Special thanks to the National Park Service's Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) program for their support. We are now working together to further explore and where possible to implement the plan priorities.
Go to the Harpers Ferry River Access Plan
Support Improved Potomac River Access at Harpers Ferry (WV/VA/DC)
06/02/2019 - by Kevin Colburn
A local planning agency has championed a study of the Weverton access site just downstream of Harpers Ferry. This site is an important Potomac river put-in/takeout site for Shenandoah and Potomac River paddlers who have few access options in the area. At issue is an informal crossing of the two-track CSX railroad used by almost 27,000 paddlers, Appalachian Trail hikers, and visitors to the C&O Canal National Historical Park last year. The study outlines two options to formalize this access site and improve the safety of crossing the railroad tracks. Either option would be a big improvement, as would a standard road crossing, and paddlers are encouraged to submit a supportive comment by the June 15 deadline.
Portage Trail Secured At Millville Dam on Shenandoah
01/18/2018 - by Kevin Colburn
Federal regulators recently issued a new 46-year license for the Millville Dam on the Shenandoah River that includes a formal portage route sought by American Whitewater. The dam is just upstream of the popular Staircase section of the Shenandoah. Also included in the license is continued operation of several access areas up and downstream of the dam. While our requests for a serious analysis of dam removal were denied, we hope the dam owner considers removal in the future for this outdated dam.
Harpers Ferry Access Options at Outfitters Clarified for 2016
05/16/2016 - by Kevin Colburn
Over the past couple years American Whitewater has been working with regional paddlers, the National Park Service, and other interested folks to improve river access on the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers near Harpers Ferry, WV. One outcome of that effort has been recognition of the parking, access, and shuttle services the rafting outfitters in the area offer provide. The outfitters worked with private boaters to share a fact sheet of the various services they offer, which you can download.
The contacts below include staff and volunteers working on this project. Make sure you are logged in if you wish to join the group.
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