Canoe Rental at Key Bridge: Paddle Washington DC’s Waterfront
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient; participants should be comfortable sitting and paddling for up to a few hours with moderate arm and core use.
Overview
Paddle beneath Washington DC’s Key Bridge with easy canoe rentals for all ages. Choose flexible rental times and explore the Potomac’s calm waters on this memorable urban adventure.
Rental - Canoe at Key Bridge
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About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable paddling adventure beneath the iconic Key Bridge! Choose from one, two, or four-hour excursions in stable canoes, perfect for solo adventurers or groups. With age-appropriate guidelines ensuring safety, this unique experience invites guests of all ages to enjoy the beauty of the water together.
Experience paddling under the Key Bridge!
Duration
1 hour, 2 hour or 4 hour
About
Stable and easy to handle, canoes are perfect for your solo water adventure or with friends and family. Canoes are a 2 person boats, as there are only two seats.
Age Restrictions:
We want guests of all ages to love boating as much as we do! For safety reasons we do have just a few age requirements, we must follow.
- Children ages 7 or under may go in a multi-occupancy boat (double kayak, canoe, rowboat or pedal boat) with an adult as long as they can safely sit independently and fit securely in a PFD.
- Children ages 8-15 years old, may go out on their own boat but their parent or guardian must complete and sign the float plan/agreement form and a supervising adult 18+ must be present on the water with them at all times.
- Minors ages 16 or 17 must have a float plan/agreement form completed and signed by their parent/guardian, but then they may go out on the water without an adult present.
- For a group of children aged 15 and under, each child must have a float plan/agreement form completed and signed by their parent or guardian and have a supervising adult on the water with the group at all times.
Adventure Tips
Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
Opt for shoes that can get wet and provide good traction when launching or landing your canoe.
Keep a Light Pack
Bring only essentials in waterproof bags to maintain canoe stability and avoid extra weight.
Practice Basic Paddling Techniques
Familiarize yourself with steering and paddling strokes to navigate with ease, especially if paddling solo.
Check Weather Conditions
Windy or rainy days can make paddling more difficult; always check the forecast before heading out.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons
- River otters
History
The Key Bridge area is historically significant as a connection point between Washington DC and Arlington, with the bridge itself dating back to 1923.
Conservation
The Boathouse promotes sustainable river use by encouraging responsible paddling and minimizing disturbance to local wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety first: a PFD keeps you secure while on the water.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during sunny paddling sessions.
summer specific
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep personal items dry and safe from splashes or unexpected waves.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Stay warm and shielded from winds on cooler days.
spring|fall|winter specific