Potomac

7. Little Falls

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July 11, 2004

Trip Report

ReporterChris Brock

This is a channel to the river left of the island just below Brookmont Dam. It's reached by attaining up the feeder canal and portaging around the fast current. At this level (3.28) some rocks start bumping you around but no real 'must moves' are needed. Stay river left of the rooster tail shown at the end of the drop. Not a necessary thing for a Little Falls run, but definitely worth the effort. Thanks to Mark B. for showing me the lines.
After running Z-Channel or the broken dam, you weave through this fairly shallow area (at stated level) that tests your rock avoidance skills. Little Falls pumping station is in the background.
Typical wave train rapids before you get to the main drop of Little Falls proper. Depending on level these can either be a straight flush or pretty hefty waves similar to White Horse on the Shenandoah. Great surfing for those inclined.
This is the takeout for Little Falls. Basically a concrete structure housing the outflow pipe from water induction further upstream. Height varies according to tide levels, but either way it's a climb. The eddy to the right of the structure can get VERY nasty, so beware. At high tide a channel opens up around the corner that places you in a much more civilized spot to take out at. Again, thanks to Mark B. for that insight.