Everybody deserves the opportunity to paddle the Potomac River, regardless of their physical ability. A significant amount of progress has been made over the last several years to incorporate new paddle craft launching systems that allow paddlers with accessibility needs to get out on the water.
Most existing public access sites were developed many years ago, when universal accessibility for getting on the water was not considered in their design. Even today, there are no specific design standards for water access facilities that accommodate people with disabilities.
The National Park Service works with its partners to incorporate accessible designs wherever possible. Partners that receive financial assistance from NPS are required to consider universal access when developing their projects. This has led to a number of new launches that are planned to be accessible.
Some of the sites on the Potomac River with universally accessible launches include:
