North Branch Release

The North Branch release is a great next step if you are comfortable with runs such as Needles on the Potomac.

River Description

This section of the North Branch Potomac has fairly continuous whitewater consisting of primarily open Class II-III rapids with waves and holes. The water is cold, however, because it is usually drawn from deep in the reservoir. Be prepared for 50-55 degree water anytime of year. Short pools break up the rapids. Releases are posted here.

The rapids start right below the put-in.  A little more than half-way down is the most difficult rapid:  'Robin's Nest.  After 'Robin's Nest' the rapids become generally progressively easier down to the town of Bloomington, MD and the take-out, on river left.  A detailed description of the rapids follows below.