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7 Ποταμοί και Λίμνες Κοντά στην Ουάσιγκτον, DC – Κορυφαία Μέρη για Διασκέδαση στην Ύπαιθρο και Ημερήσιες Εκδρομές7 Ποταμοί και Λίμνες Κοντά στην Ουάσιγκτον, DC – Κορυφαία Μέρη για Διασκέδαση στην Ύπαιθρο και Ημερήσιες Εκδρομές">

7 Ποταμοί και Λίμνες Κοντά στην Ουάσιγκτον, DC – Κορυφαία Μέρη για Διασκέδαση στην Ύπαιθρο και Ημερήσιες Εκδρομές

Αλεξάνδρα Δημητρίου, GetBoat.com
από 
Αλεξάνδρα Δημητρίου, GetBoat.com
24 minutes read
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Δεκέμβριος 26, 2025

Explore seven rivers and lakes near Washington, DC for your perfect outdoor escape. From the potomac και anacostia to the chesapeake region, these destinations offer kayak και rafting adventures, a stroll along the boardwalk, and gravelly shores that invite you to relax. Arrive during the weekend hours to discover these favorites and the towns of thomas, anna, michaels, william, anne, and jacksons, whether you’re traveling solo or with family.

From a resort vibe to practical travel tips, these spots serve as the perfect day trips. Rent gear at stations along the river, and choose across multiple rivers for a diverse course of adventure. For families, these routes include calm stretches and opportunities to catch memories, with drinks and snacks at henlopen stops. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-time kayaker, the region’s open access and friendly guides will help you plan your travelers ταξίδι.

Stay in charming towns along the river–beaver, loudoun, williamsburg, and nearby west and east bank communities–where residents share tips about short trail segments and long γέφυρες that overlook the water. Whether your plan is a sandy beach day or a long boardwalk stroll, these destinations are popular with travelers and locals alike. With options for boutique stays, winery experiences, and easy duty stops along the journey, you can make the most of your weekend adventures across the region.

DC-Area Waterways: Practical Plans for 7 Rivers and Lakes and a Summersville Lake Extension

DC-area waterways offer a practical, family friendly approach to seven rivers and lakes plus a Summersville Lake extension. The plan emphasizes easy access, safe routes, and efficient itineraries that fit busy schedules for casual travelers, families, clubs, and residents across the greater region–from Loudoun and the west side of the mountains to Spotsylvania and Annapolis. Use this guide to map days, rent gear, and read safety tips that keep trips fun and relaxed.

Potomac River: Prioritize early starts at Great Falls and Key Bridge for scenic views and calm water, then expand to riverfront towns with boardwalks in Georgetown and Old Town Alexandria. Rentals for kayaks, canoes, and SUP are abundant, with many clubs offering guided outings. For tubing or easy float trips, choose flatter sections downstream, monitor water levels, and plan photo stops along the riverside scenery. Nearby resorts and small inns provide stay options, making it easy to make a weekend of river time for families and couples alike.

Anacostia River: Use the riverwalks and riverfront parks for casual days with kids, dogs, and bikes. Historic neighborhoods and riverside markets provide social moments and festivals nearly every season. Easy access points in DC and Maryland keep travel times short, and local residents love sharing hidden photo ops along the shore. The Anacostia parks host cleanups, volunteer stations, and clubs that make river time part of a proud, community-centered experience.

Occoquan River and Reservoir: Centreville to Occoquan offers calm water for tubing, SUP, and small craft kayaking. With many rental stations along the shoreline, it’s easy to plan a half day or a full weekend, and the town of Occoquan provides riverside boutiques, cafes, and historical walkable streets. For a longer trip, combine a dockside stay with a day exploring the greater northern Virginia mud- and riverlands, a favorite among families and seasoned paddlers alike.

Shenandoah River and West-Ward Mountains: Travel through Loudoun and Clarke counties to reach the Shenandoah corridor, where winding hills and scenic creeks meet clear water. This area is a popular choice for multi-day trips and weekend getaways, with ample camping, rustic cabins, and homestead-style stays. The scenery includes dramatic mountain backdrops and quiet river bends that are ideal for tubing, easy floating, and photography sessions that capture the striped patterns of late sunlight on the water.

Deep Creek Lake and Western Maryland: Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland lake in Maryland and a core destination for year-round recreation. The lake towns offer resorts, rental cabins, and mill- and creek-adjacent scenery that appeals to both long-term guests and casual day-trippers. Water sport stations and boat rentals cover boats, pontoons, and jet skis, while the surrounding highlands invite hiking, biking, and relaxing on the beach. Nearby boutiques and seasonal festivals create a full weekend loop for families and couples looking to relax by a large, peaceful water body.

Delaware River and Monocacy River corridor: The Delaware River environment provides quick access from the DC metro to northern and eastern water routes with gentle sections ideal for beginners, plus more challenging stretches for experienced floaters and anglers. The Monocacy offers scenic river crossings and a quieter alternative to the bigger rivers, with ample creekside breaks and riverside houses and cottages that make for easy stays. From annapolis-area day trips to inland routes, you’ll find easy access, several spray-friendly playgrounds for kids, and plenty of opportunities to rent gear and try new water activities in a casual, welcoming setting.

Summersville Lake Extension: Drive through a scenic West Virginia corridor, travel through rolling hills and mountains, and reach Summersville Lake for a distinct extension beyond the DC area. Plan to stay in local homesteads or resort-style lodgings with water-view rooms and easy access to the lake’s beaches and coves. The Summersville area hosts festivals and live music in peak season, plus a thriving retail scene with boutiques and farm-to-table dining. For families and groups, this extension offers extra time on the water, tubing and tubing-adjacent activities, and plenty of photo opportunities along the neck of the lake and the surrounding hills. Local clubs and guides run river and lake excursions, including striped bass fishing and calm-water tours, making it a port of call that many water lovers love to include after a DC-area trip. The Oleary homestead nearby adds historic charm to the stay, giving residents and visitors a true sense of the region’s heritage as they travel through, relax by the water, and read up on local history before returning home.

Identify the seven closest waterways to DC with drive times, access points, and parking

Identify the seven closest waterways to DC with drive times, access points, and parking

Potomac River – Drive times: downtown DC to the Georgetown Waterfront area is about 15–25 minutes; to Great Falls Park, roughly 25–40 minutes. Access points: Georgetown Waterfront Park, Roosevelt Island, Great Falls Park, and several riverfront marinas along the river (National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria). Parking: Georgetown garages and lots, Great Falls parking area, and marina lots at National Harbor or Old Town. This iconic waterway offers picturesque views, easy river access, and a broad range of outdoor options for families and solo explorers alike.

Anacostia River – Drive times: 15–25 minutes from central DC. Access points: Anacostia Park Boat Ramp, Bladensburg Waterfront Park, and Kingman Lake/Islands area; nearby riverside trails connect to the broader metro area. Parking: Anacostia Park lots and RFK Stadium area parking. Surprising city-waterway access makes it convenient for a quick paddle or a family-friendly kayak trip after work or on days off in the maryland suburbs.

Occoquan River – Drive times: about 30–50 minutes to the Occoquan town area; roughly 40–60 minutes to Leesylvania State Park ramps. Access points: Occoquan Town Dock & Marina, Leesylvania State Park ramp, Occoquan Regional Park ramp, and nearby private launches. Parking: town lots in Occoquan, and state park lots at Leesylvania. The riverfront towns along this waterway provide charming stops with shops and casual outdoor dining for a complete day trip.

Patuxent River – Drive times: 60–90 minutes to Solomons Island or North Beach/Solomons area. Access points: Solomons Island public boat ramp, Solomons City Dock, and several private marinas along the Patuxent. Parking: Solomons public lots and marina parking; ramps are well maintained for canoe/kayak rentals and small craft. The Patuxent region blends outdoor recreation with regional amenities, including vineyards and scenic waterfronts suitable for a relaxed day by the water.

Monocacy River – Drive times: about 40–60 minutes to Frederick area. Access points: Monocacy River Park boat ramp, nearby river access along the Frederick corridor, and several local launches in town parks. Parking: park lots at Monocacy River Park and adjacent public lots. A quieter option that still delivers scenic river views, half-day paddling, and family-friendly outings in a region known for its pleasant countryside.

Rappahannock River – Drive times: roughly 75–90 minutes to Fredericksburg area access points; longer to riverfront towns north of the city. Access points: rodman’s/ Fredericksburg-area ramps, Rappahannock River Trail launches, and Fredericksburg city dock facilities. Parking: park lots near ramps and city docks. This regional waterway is known for its historical towns and boating culture, offering a mix of fishing, canoeing, and scenic cruises across a broad tidal section of the bay watershed.

Chesapeake Bay / Annapolis area (Spa Creek, Severn River, and nearby bayside ramps) – Drive times: about 60–90 minutes to Annapolis and the broader Kent Island/Sandy Point corridor. Access points: Annapolis City Dock, Spa Creek bridges, Severn River access points, and nearby Sandy Point State Park ramp. Parking: Annapolis city lots, garages in downtown, and Sandy Point parking. The Chesapeake Bay region around Annapolis is iconic for its yacht culture, marinas, and landing opportunities; Thomas Point Lighthouse provides a picturesque landmark along the bay, making this stop ideal for a full-day excursion or a weekend visit.

Site-specific activities: best kayaking, paddling, fishing, swimming, and short hikes at each spot

Great Falls Park, Potomac River (Virginia–Maryland line) – Wide river reaches above the cascades offer kayaking and paddling on calmer sections upstream, with options to launch canoes and even rowboats from designated points through local outfits. Fishing from the banks is productive with appropriate licenses. A half- to one-mile hike along the Billy Goat Trail or River Trail reveals scenic rock ledges and dramatic overlooks, perfect for a quick break in outdoors time. Parking is convenient, and the site is a popular starting point for biking and other excursions; in season, nearby towns provide dining, galleries, stores, and weekend events that suit a full day outdoors. Be mindful of currents and stay on designated trails.

Lake Needwood, Rockville, Maryland – Calm, wide-water conditions make kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding ideal for beginners and families. Rowboats and small craft can be rented nearby, and fishing from shore or boat ramps is productive with proper licensing. A loop trail around the lake provides a scenic, easy hike with a few shaded overlooks. Parking is straightforward, and the area is a hub for outdoor clubs and local bike routes, including biking paths that weave through forested sections. After time on the water, you can enjoy a quick bite in town, explore fine dining options, or browse nearby galleries and stores. Camping is available in adjacent parks for a longer outdoors weekend.

Occoquan Reservoir, Northern Virginia – A wide, tranquil setting ideal for paddling and kayaking along long, open shorelines. Fishing from banks or from a small boat is productive in season, with designated access points along the shore. Short hiking segments thread along the reservoir’s edge, offering water-focused scenery and the chance to see wildlife. Parking is ample around the access points, and Boatsetter and local outfitters provide rentals for longer days on the water. The site draws a diverse crowd, including boating clubs and weekend events; it’s a convenient turn from the metro area, with Virginiadistance typically shorter than you expect for a DC day trip. Nearby waterfront towns also offer dining, stores, and small galleries to explore after a boat break.

Shenandoah River (Harpers Ferry area) – The river corridor hosts excellent kayaking and paddling, with calmer stretches perfect for beginners and family trips. Fly-fishing and shore fishing yield steady catches, especially in slower pools, while short hikes along ridge and forest trails reveal Appalachian scenery and rock outcrops. Camping options are plentiful in the surrounding mountains, including designated campgrounds for longer stays. Expect spectacular scenic views of the Valley and the distant mountains, and plan a half- or full-day outing that blends boating with hiking and a bite at a local wharf or dining spot. Ziplining and other adventure options are available nearby for a multi-activity day in the outdoors.

James River Park System, Richmond, Virginia – An urban-to-rural blend offers some of the most reliable kayaking and paddling on a city river, along with easy access to the river’s rock gardens and calm backwaters. Canoe and kayak launches are spread along the Park’s trails, with fishing permitted at designated spots. A series of short hikes lets you explore the scenic riverbanks, bridges, and urban streets that frame the park. Parking is abundant near launch points, and the area is bustling with clubs, events, and college-student activity from nearby campuses. After the ride, you can explore dining options along the river, plus nearby galleries, stores, and a lively wharf scene in downtown Richmond.

Lake Anna, Virginia – A true outdoor playground for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with a wide lake shoreline and scattered coves perfect for a quick paddle break. The lake supports both camping nearby and short hikes on forested trails around the shore, providing a year-round outdoor experience. Rowboats and larger boats are common on the water, and boat rental services facilitate extended days on the water. The surrounding landscape blends mountains and flat water, offering scenic vistas and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Local dining options and shops nearby are perfect for finishing a day spent outdoors with family or friends.

Henlopen State Park, Delaware – A coastal gem for kayaking and paddling along wide dune-lined beaches and protected bays. Fishing thrives from the rocky shoreline and designated piers, while swimming occurs at safe areas along the broad beach. Short, easy hikes traverse dune trails and boardwalks, with long views across the Atlantic and out to the world beyond. Parking is convenient, and the nearby towns offer fine dining, galleries, stores, and a lively arts scene for after-ride exploration. This spot is a magnet for international visitors and local clubs alike, with a range of events and seasonal activities. Easy access from the DC metro area makes it a popular four-season destination for those looking to spend quality time outdoors in Virginia distance terms and beyond.

One-day itineraries: family-friendly routes, start times, and time allocations

  1. Potomac River – Great Falls, Maryland: Family-friendly paddling and easy hikes

    • 9:00 arrive, check passes at the marylanddistance gate, and gather gear for a canoe outing; plan a safe, outdoors day with your crew.
    • 9:15–11:00 paddle along calm stretches and shoreline, keeping to the natural banks and scenic overlooks; this segment offers a gentle introduction for beginners and the chance to see wild birds and small water creatures.
    • 11:00–12:15 on-land loop hike (easy terrain) to a picturesque overlook and a historic bridge viewpoint; they’ll enjoy a quick break and a photo break for instagram-worthy shots.
    • 12:15–1:00 picnic lunch on land or at a designated meadow; bring a light snack, cream-based treats, and water for hydration.
    • 1:00–2:30 return paddle or optional short exploration along the canal towpath; alongside the river, you’ll find signs about local history and the dam’s historic turbines.
    • 2:30–3:15 stop at a family-friendly farm stand nearby for a quick snack, and to stretch on land before head-back drives; nearby restrooms available.
    • 3:15–4:30 final scenic loop and shoreline viewpoints, with a quick safety recap and tips for future weekend stays in the area; depart with a sense of accomplishment and a few memorable pictures.
    • 4:30 depart or extend the day for a short drive to a nearby historic town for dining and entertainment; this popular route offers a mix of water and land activities and a perfect opportunity to share your day on instagram.
  2. Anacostia River – DC area: Urban water day with family-friendly stops

    • 9:30 arrive at a calm stretch along the shoreline just east of downtown; check for passes if required and safety gear for a gentle canoe session suitable for beginners.
    • 9:45–11:15 paddling along a sheltered waterway, with stops to view houses and historic sites along the banks; there’s a lot of natural scenery and a few small side streams to observe wildlife.
    • 11:15–12:30 land break at a shaded park, a quick hike on a short loop, and a light snack; you’ll notice a variety of regional wildlife and urban green spaces that feel delightfully picturesque.
    • 12:30–1:30 lunch at a street-front dining spot or a picnic on the grass; try a local cream-based dessert or a fruit-topped treat to keep energy high for the afternoon.
    • 1:30–3:00 visit a nearby historic district or farmers’ market favored by locals; there are also small events and performances during the weekend that add a dose of entertainment for kids and adults alike.
    • 3:00–4:15 return paddle or a short hike to a bridge overlook; the route offers a good stretch of water and easy land breaks to prevent fatigue.
    • 4:15–5:00 wrap-up at a picturesque riverside spot; take a final break, collect photos, and plan a relaxed drive home with a stop at a local farm store if you’d like to load up on regional snacks.
  3. Patuxent River / Anne Arundel area: Farm visits, light paddling, and short hikes

    • 8:45 arrive near anne arundel county and check nearby passes if needed; start with a brief safety talk and gather gear for a mild canoe excursion suitable for families.
    • 9:15–10:45 calm-water paddle along a gentle stretch of the river, watching for wildlife and noting the quiet, natural atmosphere alongside farmhouses and small land patches.
    • 10:45–12:00 break at a scenic shoreline point with a short hike along a well-marked path; enjoy a quick snack and discuss the region’s history and role in local commerce.
    • 12:00–1:00 picnic lunch at a designated area; for variety, bring a mix of sandwiches and a cream-topped dessert, plus plenty of water.
    • 1:00–2:30 visit a nearby farm for a family-friendly experience (pony rides and a brief look at farm life) and a gentle stroll through a historic land parcel; education about land stewardship is offered.
    • 2:30–3:45 optional camping or camping-light activity at a nearby site, followed by a short walk along an adobe-style trailhead to enhance the sense of place.
    • 3:45–4:30 return to the car, with a stop to gather souvenirs and enjoy a final, light break by the water, before heading home for a late dinner or a weekend away.

Gear, permits, safety, and etiquette: what to pack and local rules to follow

When exploring the rivers and lakes near Washington, DC, plan gear, permits, safety, and etiquette for journeys in greater virginia and along the patuxent channel. Weekends and summertime trips are popular, and you’ll find scenic spots perfect for kayak or paddleboard adventures around marinas, pools, and dockage along the way. Read this guide to prepare for a smooth day on the water and to respect local rules as visiting travelers who want to keep these spots world‑class.

What to pack for paddleboard or kayak outings: one USCG‑approved PFD per person (and a spare for guests), a dry bag for electronics, water and snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), three lightweight clothing layers for variable temperatures, a whistle, a leash for paddleboard use, a basic repair kit, towel, and a waterproof container for valuables. If you’ll be paddling a kayak or standing on a paddleboard, include the appropriate leash and keep gear secured to prevent loss along rocky stretches or in strong currents. For longer routes, bring a paper map or offline app and plan a route that allows you to enjoy scenery without rushing.

Permits, passes, and access: Most urban launches around the city do not require a permit for day trips, but some state parks, rivers, and stretches along the patuxent or delaware corridors may demand a day‑use pass or boating permit. Always read posted rules at the dockage and check park websites before you go. Areas near colonial or appalachian waterways can have different requirements, so verify whether a specific marinas access point or Summersville‑area launch has fees or time restrictions. If you’re visiting with a company or using Boatsetter, confirm any required permits or dockage fees in advance.

Safety fundamentals: Check the forecast, wind and water temperature, and avoid trips during storms or rapidly changing conditions. Wear your PFD at all times, travel with a buddy, and designate a captain or point‑of‑contact on shore who knows your plan. Stay within designated channels, maintain a safe distance from other boats, and keep an eye on kids and beginners. Carry a signaling device and know the local emergency numbers. If you capsize or need assistance, stay with your craft and use the whistle to attract attention. Practice in calmer pools or lakes before tackling wider channels to reduce the risk of getting separated from your gear or group.

Etiquette and local rules: Respect other users on busy waterways, yielding to anglers, slow‑moving boats, and swimmers. Keep to the right or as posted on the channel, avoid creating wakes near docks or moored boats, and minimize noise near residential areas and during festivals or community events. Do not block access to docks or marinas; if you are approaching a striped marina or a crowded launch, wait your turn and communicate clearly with captains and crew nearby. When visiting multiple spots, be mindful of wildlife and do not remove or disturb local flora and fauna. Always pack out what you bring in and follow local rules to help keep Spots along the Patuxent, the Allegheny region, and other scenic routes welcoming to travelers and locals alike.

Gear access and planning tips: Consider booking through trusted platforms or local marinas to ensure reliable gear and dockage options. Boatsetter and other reputable services can provide captains or instructors, making it easier for first‑timers to enjoy the route without overextending on weekends. For a longer route, plan three to four stops and use a central launch to minimize shuttle time. The route can include a mix of farm‑stead and coastal town stops, with opportunities to catch bass or other freshwater species in wide pools or rocky coves along the way. Reading reviews and talking to local captains helps you choose a safe, scenic day that fits your group’s skill level and time constraints.

Gear or Item Notes and Local Rules
PFDs (USCG‑approved) One per person; ensure proper fit. Have a spare for guests; keep accessible near the launch and dockage areas. Located near the water for quick access.
Dry bag / waterproof case Protects phone, wallet, and keys; use for valuables when spending time on the water in the Patuxent or broader Virginia channels.
Water, snacks, sun protection Hydration is essential during summertime paddling. Pack enough for a four‑to‑six hour outing; consider a snack at a scenic stop along the way.
Paddleboard/kayak leashes Χρήση όπου απαιτείται, ειδικά σε πολυσύχναστα κανάλια και κοντά σε ριγωτές μαρίνες· βοηθά στην αποφυγή απώλειας εξοπλισμού.
Συσκευή σφυρίγματος / σηματοδότησης Υποχρεωτική σήμανση ασφαλείας σε ανοιχτά κανάλια· να φέρεται συνεχώς όταν βρίσκεστε στο νερό.
Εφαρμογή χαρτών ή πλοήγησης εκτός σύνδεσης Γνωρίστε τη διαδρομή σας και να είστε ενήμεροι για τις επιλογές ελλιμενισμού σε μαρίνες· ελέγξτε εναλλακτικές διαδρομές γύρω από την περιοχή Allegheny και κατά μήκος του διαδρόμου του Delaware.
Ρούχα για κωπηλασία (τρία στρώματα) Ελαφριά στρώματα για ζεστασιά, συν ένα αδιάβροχο στρώμα· προσαρμόστε για τη ζέστη του καλοκαιριού και τη δροσιά του πρωινού κατά μήκος του καναλιού.
Άδειες / πάσο Ελέγξτε αν απαιτείται πάσο ημερήσιας χρήσης ή άδεια σκάφους για την τοποθεσία εκκίνησής σας (Ντελαγουέαρ, Βιρτζίνια ή τοπικά πάρκα). Διαβάστε τους αναρτημένους κανόνες στον ιστότοπο του χώρου και των πάρκων.
Κιτ επισκευής & βασικά εργαλεία Μικρά εφόδια επισκευής για μικροπροβλήματα εξοπλισμού. να γνωρίζετε πώς να αντιμετωπίσετε ένα χαλαρό λουρί ή λουράκι σε ένα καγιάκ ή σανίδα SUP.

Λίμνη Summersville, WV επέκταση: πώς να φτάσετε από την DC, μέρη που πρέπει οπωσδήποτε να δείτε κοντά και ένα ενδεικτικό σχέδιο για το Σαββατοκύριακο

Από την Ουάσιγκτον, DC, η λίμνη Summersville στη Δυτική Βιρτζίνια αποτελεί μια φυσική επέκταση για τους ταξιδιώτες που αγαπούν την ύπαιθρο. Η διαδρομή διαρκεί περίπου τέσσερις έως έξι ώρες, ανάλογα με την κίνηση και την επιλεγμένη διαδρομή, περνώντας από τη βόρεια Βιρτζίνια στην περιοχή γύρω από το Τσάρλεστον πριν κατευθυνθείτε νότια προς το Summersville. Το ταξίδι είναι φιλικό όλο το χρόνο, με πολλές γραφικές στάσεις, και η τοποθεσία δίπλα στο ποτάμι είναι αγαπητή τόσο σε οικογένειες όσο και σε μεμονωμένους ταξιδιώτες, προσφέροντας υπαίθριες δραστηριότητες, μια ποικιλία επιλογών που θυμίζουν πόλη και έναν χαλαρό ρυθμό σε όλη την πόλη.

Πώς να φτάσετε από την DC: Ξεκινήστε από την I-66 West και συνδεθείτε με την I-81 South, στη συνέχεια μπείτε στην I-64 West προς Charleston. Πάρτε την έξοδο US-19 South προς Summersville. Μια άλλη πρακτική επιλογή είναι να πάρετε την I-68 West προς Morgantown, στη συνέχεια την I-79 South προς την US-19 στην περιοχή Summersville. Υπολογίστε περίπου 5,5–6,5 ώρες οδήγησης, με διαλείμματα για γεύματα και μια σύντομη στάση με θέα στη λίμνη. Για ένα πολυ-κρατικό σαββατοκύριακο, ημερήσιες εκδρομές στο Maryland και τη Virginia μπορούν να ενσωματωθούν στη διαδρομή, ή μπορείτε να προσαρμόσετε στάσεις σε οινοποιεία και περιφερειακά καταστήματα κατά μήκος της διαδρομής. Μόλις φτάσετε, οι επιλογές διαμονής κυμαίνονται από θέρετρα και παραλίμνιες καμπίνες έως οικογενειακά ξενοδοχεία, που παρέχουν όλα μια άνετη βάση για υπαίθριες δραστηριότητες ή ένα ήσυχο παραποτάμιο καταφύγιο. Μια τοπική εταιρεία μπορεί να κανονίσει μια ξενάγηση με καγιάκ, μια σύντομη κρουαζιέρα με γιοτ ή μια γραφική βόλτα με βάρκα κατά μήκος της προβλήτας και των παραποτάμιων μονοπατιών.

Στα μέρη που πρέπει οπωσδήποτε να επισκεφτείτε κοντά περιλαμβάνονται το Εθνικό Πάρκο και Περιοχή Διατήρησης New River Gorge, με επίκεντρο την εμβληματική γέφυρα New River Gorge. Η πόλη Fayetteville βρίσκεται κατά μήκος του ποταμού και προσφέρει έναν πεζόδρομο, καταστήματα και γκαλερί που παρουσιάζουν περιφερειακές τέχνες, με την Thomas Gallery να αποτελεί μια αξιόλογη στάση για μια γρήγορη ματιά σε τοπικά έργα. Η περιοχή του ποταμού Gauley διαθέτει τους καταρράκτες Sandstone, ένα φιλικό προς την οικογένεια σημείο με γενναιόδωρες αμμώδεις όχθες και ήρεμες λιμνούλες όπου οι επισκέπτες μπορούν να βουτήξουν τα δάχτυλά τους ή να ξεκινήσουν καγιάκ για αρχάριους. Το συγκρότημα Tamarack στο Beckley είναι μια αγαπημένη περιφερειακή στάση για χειροτεχνίες, φαγητό και ζωντανές εκδηλώσεις – ιδανικό για ένα γρήγορο διάλειμμα και μια γεύση από τοπικά κέικ και γλυκά. Για ευρύτερες ιδέες για το Σαββατοκύριακο, οι ημερήσιες εκδρομές στη νότια Βιρτζίνια και το Μέριλαντ παρέχουν επιπλέον επισκέψεις σε οινοποιεία, παραθαλάσσιες πόλεις και γραφικές διαδρομές που συνδυάζονται ωραία με τον υπαίθριο ρυθμό του Summersville. Η υπαίθρια γοητεία της περιοχής, η γοητεία όλο το χρόνο και οι πολλές επιλογές για οικογένειες την καθιστούν αγαπημένη επιλογή για μια απόδραση που είναι τόσο όμορφη όσο και αξέχαστη.

Η εμπειρία συνδυάζει υπαίθριες δραστηριότητες με πολιτιστικές στάσεις. Η λίμνη Summersville προσφέρει ψυχαγωγία δίπλα στη λίμνη που μπορεί να είναι τόσο ήρεμη ή περιπετειώδης όσο θέλετε, συμπεριλαμβανομένων ενοικιάσεων καγιάκ, εκδρομές με μικρά σκάφη, ακόμη και μια περιορισμένη εμπειρία γιοτ σε μέρες με καθαρό ουρανό. Η πόλη είναι γεμάτη καταστήματα και παραλίμνια εστιατόρια όπου μπορείτε να απολαύσετε θαλασσινά και φαγητό μετά από μια μέρα στο νερό. Τα βράδια, μπορεί να πετύχετε μια τοπική παράσταση ή ζωντανή μουσική κοντά στον παραλιακό δρόμο ή απλά να χαλαρώσετε στην άμμο δίπλα στη λίμνη με το ηλιοβασίλεμα να καθρεφτίζεται στο νερό. Η περιοχή είναι γνωστή για το ότι είναι φιλική προς την οικογένεια και φιλόξενη, με πολλές επιλογές για να κάνετε διαλείμματα, να εξερευνήσετε γκαλερί και να απολαύσετε τοπικές γεύσεις μαζί με φιλικούς ντόπιους που αγαπούν να μοιράζονται ιστορίες για την περιοχή.

Η περιοχή του Σάμερσβιλ είναι μια αληθινή περιφερειακή παιδική χαρά που προσφέρει ένα ισορροπημένο μείγμα υπαίθριας περιπέτειας, πολιτισμού και χαλαρής παραθαλάσσιας αναψυχής – είτε βρίσκεστε εδώ για ένα μακρύ Σαββατοκύριακο είτε για ένα μικρότερο διάλειμμα. Το τοπίο μεταβάλλεται από τους λόφους της βόρειας Βιρτζίνιας στους ποτάμιους διαδρόμους της νότιας Δυτικής Βιρτζίνιας, και οι ανέσεις της πόλης – γήπεδα γκολφ κοντά, πισίνες στα καταλύματα και μια ποικιλία επιλογών για φαγητό – διευκολύνουν τον προγραμματισμό ενός Σαββατοκύριακου που ταιριάζει στο ρυθμό σας. Εάν ταξιδεύετε με παιδιά ή αναζητάτε μια αναζωογονητική απόδραση, ο προορισμός προσφέρει μια αγαπημένη, εμβληματική εμπειρία με μια ισχυρή αίσθηση του τόπου και ένα θερμό καλωσόρισμα από τους ντόπιους οικοδεσπότες που ξέρουν πώς να δημιουργήσουν ένα αξέχαστο διάλειμμα.

Ενδεικτικό σχέδιο για το Σαββατοκύριακο

Ημέρα 1η: Άφιξη και βόλτα στην όχθη του ποταμού – Αναχωρήστε από DC το πρωί και οδηγήστε περίπου πέντε έως έξι ώρες μέχρι τη λίμνη Summersville. Κάντε check-in σε ένα θέρετρο ή σε μια παραλίμνια καμπίνα και, στη συνέχεια, κάντε μια χαλαρή βόλτα δίπλα στο ποτάμι κατά μήκος της προκυμαίας της πόλης. Απολαύστε θαλασσινά σε ένα τοπικό καφέ και περιηγηθείτε σε μερικά καταστήματα και γκαλερί στον παραλιακό δρόμο. Το βράδυ, η θέα του ηλιοβασιλέματος από την προβλήτα προσφέρει μια τέλεια στιγμή για οικογενειακές φωτογραφίες και ένα γρήγορο διάλειμμα από τις μετακινήσεις στην εθνική οδό.

Ημέρα 2η: Νερό, φαράγγι και πολιτιστικοί σταθμοί – Ξεκινήστε με μια πρωινή συνεδρία καγιάκ ή paddleboard στη λίμνη Summersville, ακολουθούμενη από ένα πικνίκ δίπλα στη λίμνη με θέα τη γύρω περιοχή. Κάντε μια σύντομη διαδρομή προς το σημείο θέας της γέφυρας New River Gorge για εμβληματικές φωτογραφίες και μια βόλτα στο κέντρο της πόλης Fayetteville, που είναι γεμάτο με γκαλερί και καφέ. Επιστρέψτε στην πόλη για μεσημεριανό γεύμα και, στη συνέχεια, επισκεφθείτε την Thomas Gallery και ένα τοπικό οινοποιείο για γευσιγνωσίες και ελαφριά σνακ. Εάν ο χρόνος το επιτρέπει, συμμετάσχετε σε έναν οργανωμένο περίπατο στη φύση ή σε μια σύντομη διαδρομή στους καταρράκτες Sandstone για μια ήρεμη απογευματινή εμπειρία στο ποτάμι.

Ημέρα 3η: Τοπική γεύση και αναχώρηση – Μετά το πρωινό σε ένα φούρνο δίπλα στο ποτάμι όπου η Taryn βοηθά να φτιάχνονται κέικ για τους ντόπιους και τους επισκέπτες, εξερευνήστε περισσότερα καταστήματα και ίσως μια προαιρετική συνεδρία γκολφ κοντά. Μαζέψτε τα πράγματά σας και κάντε check out, και στη συνέχεια κάντε μια τελευταία γραφική διαδρομή μέσα στην περιοχή πριν επιστρέψετε στην Ουάσιγκτον. Αυτή η σύντομη απόδραση προσφέρει ένα διάλειμμα όλο το χρόνο που συνδυάζει την υπαίθρια δραστηριότητα με την πολιτιστική γεύση, αφήνοντάς σας ανανεωμένους και έτοιμους να σχεδιάσετε την επόμενη επίσκεψη την άνοιξη, το καλοκαίρι ή το φθινόπωρο.