🚀 go-pugleaf

I am interested in hearing about some of the best places to live
for whitewater kayaking/canoeing/rafting/etc.  I am interested in
the rivers nearby, the cities nearby, weather, etc.  If you could
mail me any suggestions I would appreciate it and would try to
post a compilation if there is sufficient interest.

I will start off with one place which I know about:  Washington, DC.
Although it is best known for litigation and legislation, it has an
active and exciting whitewater community.  The Canoe Cruisers Assoc.
is the major organization for non-sailing, non-motorized boating. This
includes whitewater, flatwater, ocean, poling, etc.  The CCA offers
lessons in river safety, kayaking, canoeing, instructor training, etc.
Plus lots of good trips, races, etc.
Besides the CCA, the region has some excellent rivers.
For playing, the Potomac and Mather Gorge is right around the 
Beltway.  There are many good rivers withing a 4 - hour drive:
the Cheat, New, Gauley(?), Yough, James, North Branch, Shenandoah,
Savage, plus other creeks and rivers.  These range from 
Class 2 to Class 5 in difficulty, so there is something for everyone.

Besides whitewater, DC has plenty of places for food, music, festivals,
history, etc.  And Chesapeake Bay is only about 30 minutes away and
the ocean is a 2 to 4 hour drive (depending on beach).  
Baltimore is about 30 minutes away. Also, job opportunities in 
engineering, communication, and computers abound.

The most convenient thing about the Potomac is the C&O canal which
runs along side.  Paddle up the canal and down the river. No shuttle!!

Please let me in on other places where the water is convenient and
opportunity is there.  I am interested in East Coast, West Coast,
and Alaska (Anchorage  looks pretty good for certain times of year).

Thanks in advance!

Chip