The 32 Miler: Overnight Edition - Potomac River Paddleboarding

📆 EVENT DATE PENDING SURVEY 📆

Event date will change once our poll closes.

THE 32 MILER: PADDLE BOARD EXPEDITION FROM BRUNSWICK, MD (C&O CANAL LOCK 30) TO VIOLETTE’S LOCK, GERMANTOWN, MD (C&O CANAL, LOCK 23)

Join us for another exciting long-haul paddleboard adventure down the scenic Potomac River! This 32-mile journey from Brunswick to Violette’s Lock is perfect for paddlers (including kayakers) seeking a challenge and the beauty of nature.

• Self-supported paddle – yes

• Leash and life jacket required – yes

• Restrooms – yes (along the C&O Canal Towpath)

NEW THIS YEAR!

We’re adding the option to camp overnight at one of the first-come, first-serve hiker/biker campsite along the C&O Towpath near White’s Ferry, right around the halfway point. This is a great way to split the 32-mile journey over two days and make it a true outdoorsy expedition experience. Bring your camping gear and enjoy an evening under the stars with fellow paddlers before finishing the second half of the paddle the next morning!

If you’re aiming to complete all 32 miles in one day, feel free to continue on after a short break with us near White’s Ferry, this is a self-supported paddle, after all, but make sure you adventure safely!

Important Note for those who choose to do the full 32mile in one day: Do not paddle past Violette’s Lock… The Great Falls hazardous area lies just beyond that point (~1.5miles downstream) and is extremely dangerous. Know your exit point and be familiar with the area if you’re paddling ahead of the group.

Event Details:

Meeting Point: Brunswick Boat Ramp (C&O Canal, Lock 30; by the MARC Train Station/Picnic Area)

Meeting Time: 8:30am, launch at 9:00am sharp

End Point: Violette’s Lock Road, Germantown, MD (C&O Canal, Lock 23)

Duration: Moderate speed: ~9.5-12 hours (depends on variables such as paddle speed, water level, current speed, and our groups slowest paddler (lol, no man left behind!).

Lunch Stop: White’s Ferry Grill (halfway point)

Optional Overnight Camp:

Bring your gear and spend the night with us at one of the hiker/biker campsites on the C&O Towpath near White’s Ferry. We’ll relax by the river and finish the journey together the following morning. This option is entirely optional but adds a fun, low-key, memory making twist to the event!

Camping Plans & Visitor Info:

We’ll be deciding on the water which campsite to stay at based on availability. Our two options are:

• Marble Quarry Hiker/Biker Campsite: just before White’s Ferry boat ramp (mile marker 38.2)

• Turtle Run Hiker-Biker Campsite, just after White’s Ferry boat ramp (mile marker 34.4)

Both are located right off the C&O Canal Towpath and are only accessible by foot, bike, or paddle, no vehicle access. We will exit the river through the tree line to access towpath and walk to cite, bring bike lock for kayak or board if you want to leave it by the river while we camp.

If you have friends who want to meet up for the camping portion, they’re welcome! Just let them know they’ll need to hike or bike in along the towpath to reach whichever campsite we land at (cell service is pretty good, just text or call them).

Return:

Volunteers can transport paddlers back to Brunswick (based on RSVP and pre-coordinated plans). You can also arrange your own carpool or use an Uber. Many opt to park a car at Violette’s Lock (or any of the other boat ramps (if they are exiting at a different ramp)) and ride back.

Bring: Paddleboard/Kayak, life jacket, snacks, water, sunscreen, hat, dry bag, and (if camping) your tent, sleeping gear, and headlamp/flashlights.

Tent Recommendation: Any tent that is easy to bring onboard kayak or paddle board….

Also, the Jagahaha Stand Up Paddle Tent is very light and convenient, it’s a tent designed to attach directly to your paddle board, allowing you to sleep on your board! It’s perfect for overnight paddle adventures like this, combining your board and shelter into one lightweight setup: https://a.co/d/gX1GutY

Safety Gear: Leash, life jacket, and whistle required.

RSVP Required: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RDWp9x7p4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Join the “SUP Frederick” Facebook group for the latest updates, chatter, and trip details! Stay in the loop and connect with the crew!

E-mail:

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Note:

Safety first! Ensure you are prepared and have the necessary gear for this long-distance paddle. Your safety is ultimately your responsibility, and we encourage the buddy-system on these long paddles, helps pass the time on this enjoyable relaxing trek!

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Brunswick, Meetups in Brunswick.