Juniata River

The Juniata River Water Trail is perfect for beginner paddlers. The lower section, feeding into the Susquehanna River north of Harrisburg, features calm waters, gentle riffles, and beautiful natural surroundings. Paddlers can enjoy views of forested hills, limestone bluffs, farmland, and frequent wildlife sightings, including bald eagles, herons, and river otters.

Juniata River Core Stats

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Juniata River Features

Thompsontown to Greenwood

6 miles | 3 hours

This scenic stretch of the Juniata River features two large bends in the first half of the paddle before a long, straight stretch to finish the route. With no major calamities in this stretch, it is considered an easy route for people with recreation-level skills to take unguided trips. Appalachian Kayak offers a 3-hour rental and shuttle service for the Thompsontown to Greenwood route. 

At the Greenwood Ramp there is an ice cream shop and a few other amenities at Longhorn Family Campground and Store.

Access Point: Thompsontown, Juniata River (Water Trail Mile 22)
Takeout: Greenwood, Juniata River (Water Trail Mile 16)

The Scenic Route

The Juniata is very scenic, especially in the summer and fall.  In the summer there are plenty of shade trees on the banks to where you can paddle and have lunch.  With shallow waters and warm summer temperatures, there are opportunities to take a swim and cool off.  There are a few camps along the banks and primitive islands to explore. Because the Juniata is fairly narrow, fall paddles are perfect for those who appreciate the bright, changing colors of the season along the wooded shorelines. You are surrounded by all the amazing colors of the oak, maple, ash and beech trees. 

Fishing Waters

Many kayakers enjoy fishing for smallmouth bass. An abundance of crayfish (a main food source for smallmouth) is a good sign for good fishing. Well-fed fish are healthy and strong, which makes for a great day with the rod. Other gamefish include walleye, catfish, and carp. Shallow waters along the majority of the riverbank make for easy wading.

Did you know? The Juniata River is the largest tributary of the Susquehanna River

Resources

Juniata River Water Trail Map (Lower Section)
Appalachian Kayaks
Current Water Levels