Raystown Branch Juniata River Water Trail

The Raystown Branch of the Juniata River is a good novice and family canoe and kayak river. Please note that the upper section from Herline Bridge mile 99 to Old Bedford Village mile 92 is for experienced paddlers only. There are several dangerous features in that stretch. Float speed on the Raystown Branch is approximately 2 to 3 miles per hour with leisurely paddling. Remember to boat only at water levels appropriate for your capabilities and never when the river is high or flooded. The USGS stream flow gauge for the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River at Saxton (gauge number 1562000) should be over 2.0 feet for the stretch above Bedford (river mile 91), and over 1.7 feet for the stretch below Bedford. The latest information can be found at www.erh.noaa.gov/er/marfc/juniata.htm. Planning a paddle is essential on the Raystown Branch. Accesses and shuttles should be planned ahead as the stretch from Everett (river mile 81) to Saxton (river mile 39.5) is remote. Some of the access points (including Juniata Crossing mile 73, Ritchey Bridge mile 60, Cypher Roller Rink mile 54, and Cypher Bridge mile 53) are primitive, and more suitable for canoes, kayaks, and car-top boats to be carried to the water from a parking area.