Canoeing on the beautiful
Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers
The Rappahannock River is one of the most beautiful rivers in the country. No roads, houses or bridges for 24 miles – a true backcountry river. We offer shuttles for trips from two miles of flat water to fifty miles of Class I/II rapids. Our most popular trip is Hole-in-the-Wall to Motts Run, a six-mile trip that takes about three and a half hours to paddle. Another option is are the two-day trips, spending the night on the riverbank – Elys Ford to Motts Run or Kelly’s Ford to Motts Run are great choices. Our rates are among the cheapest in the state and our equipment is top quality.
Hole in the Wall to Motts: 6 miles, paddle time 3-4 hrs: Our most popular day trip, this trip begins at a private put-in nestled along the banks of the Rappahannock. Expect to spend as long as you want swimming, fishing and playing on this quiet section of the state's prettiest river.
Ely's to Mott's Run: 15 miles, paddle time 6-8 hrs: This trip starts on the Rapidan River at Ely's Ford and offers some of the best of what the Rapidan has to offer. A remote area with class II ledges and rock gardens, this trip is excellent fishing for small mouth, red breast and bluegill. Enjoy this trip as a nice relaxing overnight, or good day of straight canoeing.
Kelly's Ford to Mott's Run: 24 miles, paddle time 10-12 hrs: This overnight trip is, in our opinion, one of the best of the Rappahannock. Paddle all 24 miles of this stretch of excellent scenery & fishing and you won't see a single bridge or road. However, there are plenty riffles, ledges & Class II rapids. The most significant rapid is a little further than half way, at the confluence of the Rapidan and Rappahannock Rivers.
Route 522 to Mott's Run: 38 miles, paddle time 16-20 hrs: For groups able to get away for a few days, this trip will be a fantastic way to spend some quality time on the river. Put in on the Rapidan and spend your days canoeing and your nights on the banks of the river.
Town of Rapidan to Mott's Run: 52 miles, paddle time 21-27 hrs: Our longest trip on the Rapidan and Rappahannock. This trip takes five days of canoeing and camping along the river. Stay gone for a week and experience what the Rappahannock backcountry has to offer.
*Paddle times given are paddle times.
*Add extra time for fishing, swimming or relaxing- all of which you should do!
