14 paddlers gathered at Pennyfield Lock to set shuttle to run the George Washington Canal on one of the first days of warm weather this season. The trip began in an unusual manner since River Road was closed due to fallen sycamore trees. However, we quickly identified a convenient bypass route so no harm done. At Riley's Lock we divided into two groups - the river runners (Alf C, Bob H, Diane H, Kathleen S, Tim T, Toni B & Wayne McD) and the eddy hoppers (Andrew T, Barb B, Carrie C, Dan K, Gordy L, Lisa W, & Leo L). As we paddled to the Virginia shore there was virtually no wind and the Potomac was like a sheet of glass . We attracted the attention of a DNR power boat providing security for the Trump golf course but they merely observed us closely and we passed without incident.
The level was a disappointing 2.93' on the Little Falls gauge. That was enough water for this trip but this bodes ill for later in the summer if current conditions persist. All ran the trip without undue difficulty. We observed the typical cast of waterfowl - great blue herons, egret and cormorants. The Muddy Branch connection between the river and Pennfield Lock parking was passable, but just barely. If the river goes much lower the GWC trip will be limited to the C&O Canal loop option.