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For Boaters

Glasgow sits at the meeting of the Maury and James Rivers — a paddling destination drawing canoeists and kayakers from across the region.

Jarvis Trail Canoe Launch

The Town’s public canoe and kayak launch is at the end of Jarvis Trail, Glasgow, VA 24555. The launch provides:

  • A gentle ramp suited to canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards
  • Vehicle parking
  • A natural setting with views of the river

The launch is open to the public at no charge. Please pack out your trash.

Suggested paddles

  • Glasgow to Snowden — a popular 6-mile float on the James, easy to intermediate. Plan for a shuttle.
  • Maury River from Buena Vista to Glasgow — a Class I scenic stretch with mostly flat water.

Always check water levels and weather before launching. The James and Maury can rise quickly after storms.

Safety

  • Wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device.
  • Tell someone your plan before launching.
  • Avoid the rivers when levels are high after rain.

For current river levels, see the USGS gauge at Buena Vista.

A wooden Town of Glasgow sign at the canoe put-in directing paddlers to the river.
The Jarvis Trail put-in — the public canoe and kayak launch maintained by the Town.
A "Kayak Launch" sign at the river's edge with the Maury River flowing past forested banks beyond.
Kayak launch at river level — gentle ramp, suited to canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
A river with rocky banks running between forested hillsides in summer.
Looking upstream toward Buena Vista — a Class I scenic stretch of the Maury.