FT #8 - Paddling the Potomac
     Leader: David Drupa (ddrupa@burkinc.com)
Trip departs at 12:15 PM from the circular drive at the rear entrance to the Wardman Park Hotel
Anticipated return at 8:00 PM
Limited to 20 participants FULL!!!!

Participants will spend two to three hours paddling one of Washington D.C.'s crown jewels, the Potomac.  The Potomac River runs 383 miles (696 km) from the Fairfax Stone in West Virginia to Point Lookout, Maryland and drains 14,679 square miles (38,018 km²).  Once the Potomac drops from the Piedmont to the Coastal Plain at Little Falls, tides influence the river as it passes through Washington, DC. and beyond.  Salinity in the Potomac River Estuary increases thereafter with distance downstream.  The estuary also widens, reaching 11 miles (16 km) at its mouth, between Point Lookout, Maryland and Smith Point, Virginia, before flowing into the Chesapeake Bay.  Participants will paddle to view the fall line, which marks the edge of the Piedmont and will continue downriver to Georgetown for an unusual view of D.C.'s urban landscape.  Participants should have the self-assessed physical ability to engage in the repetitive paddling motion against a slow but steady river current.  Children are encouraged to participate, but may not have the requisite strength/endurance to act as a primary paddler (each boat will have two primary paddlers).  Children or additional passengers may paddle if they wish.  Please pack a suitable high-energy lunch and bring an adequate supply of water and sunscreen.