Get to Know the Rappahannock – on the River, on the Rocks, and with a Rod!
Paddling with River Rock Outfitter
Fredericksburg is a gateway to adventure, welcoming all experience levels and all ages. Fredericksburg sits on the fall line of the longest free flowing river in the eastern United States, the Rappahannock River. The banks of the river provide opportunities for paddling, rock climbing, and fly fishing.
Trip Highlights
- Stand-Up Paddle Boarding lesson on the tidal section of the Rappahannock River
- Friday Night Paddle, or as we refer to it, Boards, Boats and Brews!
- Rock Climbing along the banks of the Rappahannock River
- Fly Fishing the warm waters of the Rappahannock River
Outfitter and Guide
Day 1
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Fredericksburg is centrally located to just about everything. We have easy access to Washington DC and Richmond, a short drive from Shenandoah National Park, and we are in the heart of the nation’s most notable historic events. Fredericksburg is the perfect spot to unpack your bags to enjoy adventures literally in every direction.
Kick things off with a Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding lesson on the tidal section of the Rappahannock. Never been on a SUP, no problem. SUP is a perfect sport for all skill levels. A SUP 101 class is the perfect introduction to both SUP Boarding and the Rappahannock River.
Take some time to enjoy Downtown Fredericksburg and the awesome shops and restaurants. Once you have refueled, you don’t want to miss paddling on the Rappahannock on a Friday night. Join River Rock Outfitter for their popular Friday night paddles, or as they like to refer to them, Boards, Boats, and Brews! As the name suggests, you will choose either a kayak or SUP and take a leisurely float upstream where you can view Fredericksburg’s most iconic bridges. This is Friday night of course so no one is working too hard. This is a “go-at-your-own-pace” kind of paddle. After your float, walk to a riverside restaurant or to one of the Downtown pubs to enjoy snacks and a beer. A perfect ending to your first night Fredericksburg.
Day 2
Rappelling on the Rappahannock River
You were introduced to the slower side of the river on day 1 and now its time to pump it up and test your Vertical Limits with a Climbing 101 course. Our 70-foot crag is located right on the banks of the Rappahannock River providing an amazing back-trop the river. As Goldilocks would say – not to big, not too small, but just right! In this full-day course, you will learn proper belaying techniques, climbing safety, movements, and rappelling. This course will give you the confidence and motivation to explore the great climbing opportunities throughout Virginia and the mid-Atlantic.
Day 3
Rappahannock River
We’re going back to the water on day 3. However, rather than being on it, we are going hunting for what’s in it with a Fly Fishing 101 course. This 101 course is all you need to get started. In this 4-hour clinic, you will learn the cast, understand the equipment and how to use it, and our guide will show you the best fishing spots to land the big one (or little one). You will learn all of this while spending half the day on the beautiful Rappahannock River.
The good news is that you don’t need to travel to the Rockies to have a “fly fishing moment”. The Rappahannock is full of bass, sunfish, and other fishes great for catching, photographing, and releasing. Perfectly worthy fish for “fish stories” with family later.
A little instruction from someone who knows what they’re doing will go a long way to getting you started. You won’t leave a master fisherman, but you will be on your way to becoming a functional one.
Suggested Places to Stay
Stay at the Richard Johnston Inn for a truly special Downtown Fredericksburg experience. Located in the heart of Old Town Fredericksburg, 3 blocks from the train station, you can park your car and stroll the brick lined sidewalks to a variety of unique shops, wonderful restaurants and historic sites. The Fredericksburg Visitors Center is located across the street on Caroline where you can take a Trolley Tour or a Carriage ride.
River Rock Outfitter who provides access to outdoor adventures is located right down the street. Park, Sleep, and Play all in one of the most special spots in Virginia – Downtown Fredericksburg.
This outdoor adventure was submitted by River Rock Outfitter
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