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dimanche 15 juin 2014

Go Kayaking In Washington DC For Sightseeing With A Difference

By Ina Hunt


The capital of the United States is a sightseeing paradise. The city is not only home to many famous monuments and excellent museums, but also to sites where key events in both American and world history took place. Naturally there are thousands of tourists in the District of Columbia at any given time and if you want to avoid the crowds, get active and see the city in a new way, you may want to consider kayaking in Washington DC.

The DC in the name stands for 'District of Columbia'. It doesn't form part of any of the USA's fifty states but is completely separate. The state of Virginia lies to the south and the west, while Maryland lies to the north and the east. DC is a pleasant city with many parks and open spaces. It also has plenty of spots where you can go paddling or sailing.

The largest body of water in DC is the Potomac River, which forms its western border. This is one of the best places to go sightseeing by kayak. From the water you'll see the Lincoln Memorial with the Washington Monument and the US Capitol peeking out behind it. You'll also be able to spot the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial and the Kennedy Center, not to mention the District's famous cherry trees.

Probably the most historic of DC's neighborhoods is Georgetown, where you'll also find Georgetown University and Washington Harbor. It's from the latter that many kayak trips along the Potomac start. Georgetown also offers the perfect alternative for paddlers who would rather avoid boat traffic or rapids. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has very calm waters and is very scenic too, with the historic buildings along its banks.

If you've never gone paddling before, don't fret. Simply take some lessons. You can do this at most of the outfitters renting out kayaks. Some of these businesses will also teach you how to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding or even canoeing. They also have guided tours for different levels of skill and to different areas.

If you're an active traveler but would rather not run the risk of getting wet, there are other ways to see the capital city too. The majority of the most famous sights are concentrated within or near the small area known as the National Mall, which is best navigated on foot. The city is also very bicycle friendly with several trails and guided bike tours.

Winters in the city are cold and aren't the best time to be out on the water unless it's on a cruise in a covered boat. Summers tend to be hot and humid. The best times to go paddling are in spring and fall, both of which are pleasantly warm. In spring you'll also get to see the cherry trees in bloom while fall offers the spectacle of leaves in bright red, yellow and orange.

Most places where you can rent kayaks in DC are located in the Georgetown area or at the marinas. There are some outfitters based just across the border in Maryland too. To find one, ask your travel agent or do an online search.




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