Life Outside Spring 2019 - 20

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NOTHING RINGS IN THE SPRING like a long canoe or kayak trip down
CEDAR CREEK
Panther Cave is one of the
highlights of one of the best
novice paddling spots in the
state.

BY ERIC J. WALLACE
20

a small, scenic river. Catch a warm day and venture deep into the countryside for a treat like no other:
Exploring the nooks and crannies of Virginia's beautiful mountain country by way of canoe and kayak.
With waters high, areas that are otherwise too shallow to float open like time-limited treasure chests.
Whether you're an amateur or a seasoned veteran, this list will help you take advantage of seasonal
waters and maximize your adventure quotient.

CEDAR CREEK, FREDERICK COUNTY
Logistics: Put in at the Va. 628 bridge just south of
Marlboro (the southside is easiest, but you'll need
to ask permission at the nearby house). Takeout
on river-left at the wayside by the U.S. 11 bridge.
10.5 miles, 6-8 hours.
Details: Author of "Classic Virginia Rivers" and
renown paddling enthusiast, Ed Grove, calls this
40-50-foot-wide run, "perhaps the best trip for shepherded novices in the state of Virginia." Though you'll
need a string of rainy days to do it, patience yields a
creekside waterfall, historic fort, caves, limestone
formations, crystalline water, rocky bluffs lined with

Spring 2019 \\ LifeOutside Magazine

cedar trees-even cave-like rocky arches to paddle
under! Expect continual Class I and IIs, with a bit of
flatwater here and there. The lone hazard is a low-water
bridge about 8 miles into the trip. A quick portage is
available on river-right. Check the online USGS gauges
near Winchester-min, 3.2 feet; max, 6 feet.
Outfitter: This is a BYOB float. For a guided
adventure on the nearby Shenandoah River, inquire
with Michael Summer of Virginia River Trips. Located in White Post, he offers a number of scenic
paddling adventures. Day-trip rentals start at $40.
(540) 268-0727. virginiarivertrips.com
http://www.virginiarivertrips.com
Life Outside Spring 2019

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Life Outside Spring 2019
