"Fletcher's Boathouse" is something of a misnomer because the actual boathouse is a concession of the National Park Service. Fletcher's is a destination, but we use the launch facility on National Park Service land just the other side of the concession.

The launch is just a great place to get into the upper reaches of the Potomac. While it is still tidal, it is "freshwater tidal," as opposed to "brackish" and "saltwater" tidal. From here, you can paddle to just the other side of Chain Bridge, where the Potomac River fall line begins. Or you can paddle down stream, around Three Sisters Islands, and then back up the river. Even though you are close to the bustle of Georgetown, you are simply not conscious of noise, crowds, and cars. This part of the river is pretty spectacular in terms of both steep cliffs coming down to the river as well as the richness of the flowers and wildlife. Particularly during the spring and fall, this part of the river has an incredible variety of wildflowers. In the fall, Swallowtail butterflies congregate on the Joe Pie Weed. During May, you can experience the annual Shad run. While you may not see many Shad, you know that they are there because of the large number of cormorants.

Fletcher's is just a great place for evening paddles as well. In addition, there are a number of barbecue pits and picnic tables, so it is a great place to have a picnic before paddling.