Sunday, November 16, 2014

Kayaking the Potomac


Seeing the monuments by water has always been a box I’ve wanted to check, and I finally got to do so back in early October. Myself, Molly, Sarah and Ian rented kayaks for $15 — a bargain by DC’s standards — and spend the afternoon paddling around Roosevelt Island. 

Theodore Roosevelt Island, located across from the Kennedy Center and Georgetown in the middle of the Potomac, is an island national memorial dedicated to our 26th president. No cars or bicycles are permitted on the island, which is only accessible via kayak or footbridge from Arlington, VA. Visitors can hike along the various trails and marshes that compose the island, and check out the 17-foot statue of Teddy Roosevelt at its center. 

The statue of Teddy Roosevelt in the center of the island.

After kayaking around the southern tip of the island, we came across one of the most unique vantage points of the city, with the Lincoln, Jefferson, and Washington monuments all at once visible from our kayak seats. The weather was perfection: breezy and sunny, almost reminding me of the kayaking trips I’ve done in the Florida mangroves. Aside from getting an arm and core workout, the afternoon was relaxing and reflective, and such a memorable time with my lovely WAIP friends. 

Obligatory monument selfie! 




From all the various angles I’ve admired the monuments, this is by far my favorite view. Being so far removed from the bustle of the city was an incredibly refreshing way to spend a Sunday, and is a must for DC tourists and residents alike. 



- Sarah Montell 

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