Unique Tubing Getaway
One Hour From DC & Baltimore Beltways near Sharpsburg, Maryland
Many people think of tubing as being sprawled out on a wide open river, basking in the hot summer sun while drifting in the middle of a floating party. This type of tubing has its merits for sun worshippers with a hang-over, however, if you’re the type that is always looking for a trip with a unique twist- tubing the Antietam Creek is just that.
Secluded
Antietam Creek, located near Sharpsburg, Maryland, is surrounded by the forest and farmland which are part of the Appalachian foothills. It offers an escape from the more heavily traveled rivers in the Harpers Ferry & DC area. A haven for wood ducks, great blue heron, turtles, osprey, kingfishers, beaver, and the savvy human, this tubing trip is to be done with eyes wide open.
Picturesque
Partially shaded from the hot summer sun, the Antietam creek is lined by a canopy of white sycamores and other deciduous trees. It’s spring-fed waters will keep you cool even when the temperatures are breaking into the 90s. Made up mostly of mellow waters permitting time for relaxation and floating, Antietam Creek tubing is perfect for adults and kids alike. Around the twists and bends of this traveling stream, Class II+ riffles and ledges break up periods of calm water with just enough action to make it interesting. Halfway through the trip, tubers enjoy a creek side picnic lunch of tasty fried chicken.
Historic
The trip begins floating through a wooded section of Antietam National Battlefield, known as the site of the Battle of Antietam and the turning point of the Civil War. Guides on the tubing trip give historical highlights pertaining to the battle and military boondoggle at Burnside Bridge. At the trips end, relaxed and deliciously tired tubers float under a stone-arch bridge built in 1832, soon followed by the Antietam Aqueduct on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal– a perfect ending to a noteworthy trip.
River & Trail Outfitters has been facilitating rafting, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking tours & shuttles, and biking in Knoxville, Maryland, 3 miles east of Harpers Ferry for 43 years. Pioneering tubing on the Antietam Creek in 1989, River & Trail also offers kayak & canoe rentals as well as an Antietam Kayak & Brunch. Visit their paddling shop at 604 Valley Road for Antietam Creek and area information.
Natasha Baihly
was born and raised near Harpers Ferry and has been adventuring on its rivers and trails all her life. She has traveled, studied, and worked in parts of Europe, Central & South America, and Asia but always comes home. She has worked as a river guide, manager, and president of River & Trail Outfitters, a family-run adventure sports company for over 28 years.