Sept 29 | Anacostia Pedal Paddle Palooza
It’s a pedal paddle palooza! Join the biggest watershed exploration party on September 29th to bike and kayak the Anacostia watershed. Start in Montgomery County, Prince George's County or the District on bike and explore the trails to finish at Kingman Island.
Free kayak and canoe rentals will be available along the trail at launch points for a mid ride paddle. Registration for boating is here.
Launch points:
Montgomery County - Sligo Middle School 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Prince George's County - University of Maryland 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
District of Columbia - 11th St Bridge 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Paddle points:
Kingman Island 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Anacostia Park Boat Ramp 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Kenilworth Park 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
11th St Bridge Dock 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
There will also be motorized boat tours leaving from Anacostia Park Boat Ramp and Kingman Island.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much does it cost?
Nothing!
Where do I start?
We’ve got launch points in all three jurisdictions in the Anacostia watershed - start somewhere close to home or totally new to explore something different!
Do I need to start at a launch point?
We have all the trail directions and event passports at the launch points. Raffle is only open to folks who have completed their passport book! And to be officially on the ride, there are bike waivers required that are only available at launch and paddle points, and kayak waivers are required at all paddle points.
Do I need to register?
We do require waivers to be signed for both boating and bike riding. They will be available at all launch and paddle points but also available for kayaking here. Save yourseulf the time outside for fun and do it ahead!
How long is this ride?
As long as you want! We’ve got activities throughout the Anacostia watershed on the trail but the average ride from a launch point to the central hub at Kingman Island is 10 miles. The trail follows the Anacostia River and water prefers to go downhill if possible, so the trail is pretty flat with a downhill trend towards the District.
When should I start?
All the launch points are open 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. The earlier you start, the cooler it will be and the less folks will probably be using the kayaks. If you pedaled straight from Sligo Creek Field (the farthest away launch point) to Kingman Island, it should take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Add in the necessary time for stopping to smell the flowers, snack breaks and paddling, what makes sense for your schedule?
What should I bring?
Folks who are joining us for the trail ride should have a working bicycle, helmet (insurance requirement) and a bike lock.
Folks who are paddling should bring a small plastic baggie to keep valuables dry. A broad brimmed hat (baseball hat, etc) and sunglasses would be helpful to reduce glare and sunburn when you’re out in the water. There will be bike racks at all the boat locations. Staff will be at all the paddle points to keep a cursory eye over your stuff - please be prepared to lock your bike. We recommend taking your phone and wallet with you in a small plastic baggie. Larger panniers, extra jackets etc should be safe on land though please do not bring your family heirlooms or diamonds.
For everyone - please bring water, snacks, sunscreen and clothing to keep you safe outside for a few hours. Phones are also good for taking photos of our gorgeous watershed!
What's the weather plan?
We don't paddle or ride bikes during hazardous conditions such as lightning or thunderstorms. If dangerous storms roll over the area on Sept 29th, we will likely cancel the event. But other than that, we’ll be a go! Please bring the water, snacks, sunscreen, or clothing layers you need to keep safe outside.
Have questions about the event? Reach us at trailranger@waba.org or (202) 518-0524 x208.