Put In - MD Route 136

Put In at MD Route 136 provides access to Broad Creek, a medium-sized stream in Harford County classified as a headwater stream near its source. With a total length of 17.86 miles and a significant average gradient of 27.8 feet per mile, this section of Broad Creek offers moving water suitable for paddlers seeking current-based paddling experiences. The stream's elevation drop of 496 feet over its length indicates substantial relief and varied terrain throughout the watershed.

Broad Creek drains approximately 41 square miles and maintains an average flow of 57.69 cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 1.27 feet per second. These moderate flow characteristics suggest the creek can provide interesting paddling conditions, though water levels and paddling difficulty will vary seasonally. The stream order classification of 4 indicates this is a medium river system with enough volume to support recreational paddling activities.

Paddlers using this put-in should be aware that Broad Creek is located in a headwater region and conditions may fluctuate with rainfall and seasonal water availability. The relatively steep gradient means faster current and potentially rocky or technical sections typical of streams in this part of the mid-Atlantic. Water conditions and hazards should be scouted before launching, particularly after heavy rain when flows increase significantly.