best rafting trips in america

20 amazing white water rafting trips in the USA

From high-energy rapids to laid-back river floats, we’re on a mission to find the white water rafting trips you'll love in the USA. This is choose-your-own-adventure, whether you want to perfect your river surfing skills, or just hit the water for sun and swimming. Not that summertime’s the only time to head to the river. America’s best white water rafting is powered by melting snow, dam releases, and year-round rivers, so you can find the perfect white water adventure for any month. Ready, set, paddle.

Kick off from the riverbank and dive into a world of swirling eddies, standing waves, and rippling white water. We’re showcasing 20 white water rafting trips that are among some of the best in America, from California gold country to deep Appalachia—lining up enough white water adventures for a lifetime on the river.

Why white water rafting? It’s not just splashing through rapids and riverside picnics (though we think that sounds pretty nice). White water rafting gives a whole different perspective on some of the United States’ wildest places, with the chance to spot wildlife and gorgeous scenery that’s far from any road. That’s why some of America’s best white water can be found in these small towns and mountain wildernesses—it’s a taste of the country at its most pristine.

Gardiner, Montana

Wild West Rafting

In Gardiner , go white water rafting on the Yellowstone River to float through the gorgeous Gallatin Range of the Rocky Mountains. You'll have the chance to spot ospreys and Montana’s other native wildlife. Try out your paddling skills on a rafting trip, or go for the full wilderness experience, paddling a longer section of the Yellowstone River and spending the night at the edge of the water.

Taos, New Mexico

Far Flung Adventures

Head to Taos for a white water rafting trip on the Rio Grande , then paddle the Narrows, Big Rock, and Souse Hole. Even if you endure the spinning whirlpools and eddies, leaving Taos might not be so easy—the entire town is said to be an “energy vortex” that’s rumored to exert a powerful pull on visitors.

Canon City, Colorado

Lost Paddle Rafting

There are more than 100 miles of rapids on the mighty Arkansas River, a river rafting hotspot that flows right past the mountain town of Canon City . With that much white water, there’s a lot to choose from while booking a river trip, and options range from the laid-back Bighorn Sheep Canyon to the more challenging Royal Gorge , whose towering canyon walls contain some hair-raising Class V rapids.

Hartford, Tennessee

Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting

With access to the best white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains, Hartford is a great home base for Tennessee white water adventures. Choose the lower section of the Pigeon River for a beginner-friendly float through Class I and Class II rapids, or opt for the upper Pidgeon River to tackle Class III and Class IV rapids that include big waves and some serious drops.

Buena Vista, Colorado

Noah's Ark Colorado Rafting & Aerial Adventure Park

Surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks, Buena Vista is a top destination for Colorado white water adventures. You can paddle Brown’s Canyon National Monument , take on the serious white water that surges through Royal Gorge , or use Buena Vista as a base camp for paddling “ The Numbers ,” a legendary stretch of the Arkansas River that’s steep, rocky, and powerful.

McCaysville, Georgia

Rolling Thunder River Company

Flowing through the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest , the Toccoa River is great for white water rafting trips at a laid-back pace. Families with smaller kids can try white water rafting for the first time, and you can float the Toccoa River in a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddle board, or inner tube (floating beer cooler optional).

Bryson City, North Carolina

Nantahala Rafting with Adventurous Fast Rivers

White water rapids alternate with stretches of flat water on the Nantahala River outside of Bryson City , a picturesque home base for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park . A daily, scheduled dam release powers the Nantahala River’s Class II and Class II rapids, sending cool water down a watercourse that’s fringed with lush, North Carolina forest.

Lotus & Coloma, California

Beyond Limits Adventures

Paddle the south fork of the American River on a white water rafting trip from Lotus or Coloma in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This is California gold country: watch for shining flecks in the water as you learn to navigate churning rapids and waves, or bring your gold pan along for an adventurous overnight rafting trip and an evening beneath the California stars.

Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania

White Water Adventurers

Ohiopyle State Park contains a high-energy stretch of Class II, Class III, and Class IV rapids packed into seven and a half miles of the Youghiogheny River—locals just call it the Yough. White water rafting on the lower Yough River is a great first-time white water rafting adventure, but experienced white water kayakers will love surfing standing waves and holes.

Charlemont, Berkshires, Massachusetts

Crab Apple Whitewater

Deerfield River white water rating conditions range from inner tube-friendly ripples to Class IV rapids boosted by dam releases from April through October. And since the Deerfield River follows the scenic Mohawk Trail byway into the Berkshire Mountains , getting to the white water rafting spots is half the fun.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Whitewater

Paddle with gorgeous views of the Grand Teton Mountains on a white water rafting trip on the Snake River. Jackson Hole white water rafting ranges from relaxed floats perfect for spotting wildlife to high-energy rafting trips that take on more challenging rapids; you can even mix rafting with a taste of Wyoming’s legendary fly fishing .

Idaho Springs, Colorado

Rocky Mountain Whitewater Rafting

White water rafting in Idaho Springs means paddling scenic Clear Creek, which features both easy sections of fun, rolling rapids and sustained stretches of Class III and Class IV rapids that will keep you focused (and wet). Idaho Springtime’s white water rafting starts when the river warms up in May, and flows right through the sunny Colorado summer.

Merlin, Oregon

Orange Torpedo Rafting Trips

Tiny Merlin, Oregon is the perfect adventure base camp for a white water rafting trip on the Rogue River , among the most legendary rafting destinations in the West. The name sounds intimidating, but Hellgate Canyon’s a great place for first-time paddlers, while Class IV falls and surfable waves make the Nugget Falls section ideal for stepping up your skills.

The Forks, Maine

U.S. Rafting

Deep in western Maine, The Forks is a white water rafting destination with a backwoods soul . This is where the Dead River and the Kennebec River come together, and there’s great white water rafting on each of the two waterways. The Dead River boasts the East’s longest stretch of continuous whitewater, while the Kennebec takes a powerful dive through the remote Kennebec River Gorge, where dam releases churn the water into Class IV rapids.

Athelstane, Wisconsin

Wildman Adventure Resort - Peshtigo River Outpost

Shoot the white water on the Menominee River, whose river banks are hemmed in with soaring cliffs. White water rafting trips from Athelstane navigate Piers Gorge, on the dividing line between Michigan and Wisconsin. When the water peaks in the spring, Class IV and Class V rapids offer a challenging white water adventure for more experienced paddlers.

Weatherly, Pennsylvania

Whitewater Challengers

The Lehigh River once powered mills and foundries, but now it’s a great spot for white water rafting trips in the Pocono Mountains . Book a weekend rafting adventure that’s timed to the dam release, and your white water experience will be powered by energetic rapids. On other days, Class I and Class II white water make for family-family rafting .

Flagstaff, Arizona

Grand Canyon Custom Tours

Rafting the Grand Canyon is one of the world’s best white water rafting adventures, with unmatched views of the canyon from water level, and Flagstaff makes the perfect rafting base camp. Take on the Colorado River in a wooden dory like John Wesley Powell, or opt for the comfort of a white water raft as you splash your way down the most iconic river in the American west.

Lansing, West Virginia

New & Gauley River Adventures

Paddle the spectacular New River Gorge on a river rafting trip in the heart of West Virginia, and you’ll be white water rafting one of the oldest rivers in the world. More experienced rafters can head to the nearby Gauley River , with challenging, technical rapids that hit their peak between early September and mid-October.

Stanley, Idaho

White Cloud Rafting Adventures

Flowing through the heart of an untouched wilderness, the Salmon River may be called the “River of No Return,” but even beginning paddlers can experience Stanley’s best white water rafting. Rafting trips bounce over Class II and Class III rapids in rafts and white water kayaks, passing some of northern Idaho’s most rugged wilderness scenery.

Ocoee, Tennessee

Quest Expeditions

Take on challenging Class III and Class IV rapids on the Ocoee River , one of the best white water rafting destinations in Tennessee, and you’ll splash through the heart of the southern Appalachian mountains. Warm river water makes it even more fun to paddle through roller coaster waves and churning drops, with a long season that stretches all the way from March through October.

Explore more white water rafting trips:

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• Best white water rafting in Tennessee

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Rivers & Oceans

Rafting and Adventure Travel

Best Whitewater Rafting and Camping Trips in the United States

The United States is home to an amazing array of multi-day (overnight) rafting expeditions. Using our years of experiences guiding rafts around the world, the staff at Rivers & Oceans came up with our list of the top 10 best rafting and camping trips in the U.S. These white water rafting vacations are in no particular order , it was hard enough for us to agree on 10 trips. Since they are so unique, we have a separate blog post about our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska .

Most of the whitewater rafting trips are all-inclusive packages between 4 to 6 days with a couple of options that can last two weeks (Colorado and Salmon Rivers). The main factors considered were their whitewater rapids, scenery, remoteness, access (from airports), camping, hiking, wildlife, fishing and water quality.

If you decide to book a trip through us the costs are guaranteed to be the same as if you booked directly with the outfitter.

Best Multi-day Rafting Trips in Oregon

1. the rogue river – southern oregon   .

We love rafting the Rogue for its lush scenery, wildlife, and length at four days is the perfect amount of time. The Rogue is know for its wildlife viewing with birds of prey, turtles, otters and black bear. Kids enjoy the warm water for swimming, and hikes to stunning waterfalls and historical properties. 

This is a great river for all ages, especially families that can enjoy the class III whitewater rafting and kid friendly camping. Older kids and adults can increase the level of adventure by paddling in a raft or inflatable kayaking. Getting to the meeting location is a three-hour drive south from Portland or a 6 hour drive from the Bay Area. There is also a local airport in Medford, Oregon.

2. The Illinois River – Southern Oregon  

The Illinois River combines the best whitewater rafting, scenery, and solitude in the lower 48 states. It is such a secret due to only being run in the spring time. You will be blown away by the ruggedness of the canyon, endless waterfalls, water clarity, and the landscape of moss, flowers, and lush greenery surrounding the canyon. 

After paddling class IV whitewater, each night’s campsite provides a unique, scenic experience. Trips meet in Grants Pass, Oregon and are doable over a long weekend. Come ready to battle the elements of early spring in this remote and rarely rafted river of the coastal Cascade Range.  

River News of Oregon

Led by successful dam removals such as the Elwa and White Salmon Rivers in Washington State, the  largest dam removal in US history  was announced on the Klamath River in southern Oregon. Previous removals have restored river ecosystems as well as saving taxpayer dollars due to the dams not producing power efficiently. Most exciting is the potential salmon recovery due to recovering hundreds of miles of free-flowing river. 

Utah’s Top Whitewater Rafting and Camping Tours

3. Gates of Lodore on the Green River – Northeastern Utah  

The Green River is the longest river system in the Southwest, providing the majority of water in the Colorado River. Lodore Canyon is a stunning four-day rafting trip on the Green River through towering red rock and sandstone walls.

Within Dinosaur National Monument, this a wonderful option for families with fun technical class III rapids run in a choice of oar raft, paddle boat or inflatable kayak. Enjoy side hikes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks with additional time to relax in camp on nice sandy beaches. Trips meet in Vernal, Utah, an easy three hour drive from the Salt Lake City airport. (See our page about rafting the Green River through Lodore Canyon .)

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4. Yampa River – Northwestern Colorado/Utah  

As the last free flowing river in the Colorado River system, rafting the Yampa River is a wild and special vacation. Flowing through Dinosaur National Monument like the nearby Lodore, the Yampa sees exciting flows during spring runoff, particularly in the famous Warm Springs rapid. Run the rapids of the Yampa in paddle boats, oar rafts, and inflatable kayaks.

The campsites on the Yampa are stunning, with lush box elder trees, sandy beaches and surrounded by incredible sandstone walls. Side hikes are a daily optional activity up creeks and to scenic views. This trip meets in Vernal, Utah, giving visitors the option to explore more of Dinosaur National Monument. (Find out more about Yampa River rafting tours .)

River News in Utah

In November of 2020, a major pipeline to divert water to Colorado’s Front Range cities (Denver), from Flaming Gorge Dam, which feeds into Lodore Canyon on the Green River and then into the Colorado River was denied by Utah state engineers. This is part of a decades long fight over Colorado River water. Read more in the Salt Lake City Tribune’s  article here . 

Idaho’s Best White Water Rafting and Camping Expeditions

5. the salmon river – central idaho   .

With white sandy beach camping, warm water and towering canyon walls the Salmon River is a staff favorite at Rivers & Oceans. We say you feel like you are in the Cabo, Mexico version of Idaho! Rafting the Salmon is an absolutely perfect trip for all – it has whitewater that is just exciting enough for thrill seekers to paddle in a raft or inflatable kayak, and mellow enough to relax as your float in an oar raft through the largest wilderness in the lower 48 states, the Frank Church River of No Return.

Sometimes called the Grand Canyon of Idaho, it is the second deepest canyon in the lower 48 states. It’s warm water, hot spring, historical sites and Native American pictographs make it one of the best six-day trips in the West. Together the Middle Fork and the Salmon River can be rafted 200 miles, making for an incredible 12-day expedition. (Read about the Salmon River of Idaho .)

6. The Middle Fork of the Salmon River – Central Idaho  

The Middle Fork is one of the most classic whitewater trips in North America. Flowing south to north for 100 miles through the Franch Church River of No Return Wilderness , the terrain changes between high alpine forest, grassy desert and finally into Impassable Canyon which provides for dramatic camping and rafting. Besides it’s many hot springs, side creeks and technical, rocky rapids run in oar rafts, paddle boats and inflatable kayaks, this river attracts fly fishers from all over the world.

The cold, clear water makes it a pristine habitat for many diverse fish species steelhead, cutthroat trout and also salmon. This vacation is best for the more adventurous in June and becomes a family trip in July and August. Trips meet and end in Stanley, Idaho. (See a video and more information on the Middle Fork of the Salmon .)

7. The Selway River – Western Montana/Northern Idaho  

Last but not least, rafting the Selway River is another staff favorite at Rivers and Oceans. One of the most pristine whitewater experiences and trips in North America. With incredibly diverse and lush scenery in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, class IV+ rapids run in oar and paddle rafts with world-class fishing, this river speaks for itself. Only one groups launches per day making this the ultimate wilderness adventure.

The river is typically run in five-days including a layover day (two nights camped at the same location) to give guests a day to explore the wilderness. Hike to a fire lookout tower, fly fish up Moose Creek or hang out in camp during the layover day. Trips meet in Missoula, Montana making this river one of the easiest to access. (Learn more about the exclusive Selway River .)

River News in Idaho

Salmon River water flows down into the Snake River and then through the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean. These drainages are some of the most ecologically diverse and critical to species both inland and in the ocean.  Idaho Rivers United  created a community education program to help improve habitat conservation for wild fish that are critical to Native American communities, the Idaho economy and more. 

Top Overnight Rafting Trip Packages in California

8. tuolumne river – yosemite , california.

The Tuolumne is called the champagne of the Sierra due to it’s light bubbly whitewater in a dramatic canyon. Over 18 miles the river has 16 named class IV rapids plus many more class II and II rapids creating some of the most consistent whitewater rafting of any river. Everyone typically paddles on these trips. What puts it on the top 10 list is the camping and exploring on two and three-day trips. The Clavey River and the North Fork of the Tuolumne both provide world-class swimming and relaxing. Plus the Tuolumne River’s proximity to Yosemite makes it a much do for anyone visiting the park. (Check out the Sierra’s Tuolumne River .)

9. Cherry Creek/Tuolumne Combo – Yosemite , California

Those that want more than the Tuolumne’s class IV experience can head upstream to Cherry Creek, the most difficult white water rafting in the United States. Paddle 9 miles of class V whitewater on Cherry Creek and then proceed down the rapids of Tuolumne River to camp over two or three days. This package provides the most whitewater intense rafting trip to be had anywhere.

Be warned, to participate in this trip you have to pass a swim training and be fairly fit. Most should stick with the Tuolumne run which is more than enough whitewater for all but the most die-hard enthusiasts. (Find out if rafting Cherry Creek is right for you.)

Cherry Creek Rafting Video

Best Rafting and Camping Tours in Arizona (and potentially the world!)

10. colorado river through grand canyon national park – northern arizona.

The Colorado River is unquestionably on everyone’s list of best rafting and camping trips in the world! There is huge whitewater, amazing sandy beaches for camping, and incredible hiking to scenic vistas and lush grottos. The human history of the area is fascinating and the guides are typically well seasoned and knowledgeable. These trips run from overnight to 18-days. The question is which is the best trip and when to go . (Learn more about floating through Grand Canyon .)

Concluding Thoughts

While all these vacation packages create an incredible experience between the rafting, camping, and scenery, the best white water rafting trip in the US is the one that meets your groups needs. Families with children from 8 to 13 will be best on the Gates of Lodore, Salmon, and Rogue Rivers. The other rivers are not as family friendly with longer river days, tougher conditions, or harder whitewater. Looking for something more remote and wild check out our Alaskan rafting trips .

If you have questions or just want to talk about rivers please give us a call or contact us by email ! We’ll point you to the best outfitter and destinations for you and your group. We guarantee the same price as working directly with the outfitters.

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Dispatches from adventure tours around the world and tips for intrepid travelers. Read Our Blog

Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Interactive map of our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking wilderness rafting rivers in the world, with varying degrees of challenge and adventure. In this article, we will discuss the top multi-day wilderness rafting rivers in Alaska, including the miles and days of each trip, whitewater, wildlife and how to access the rivers.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, an all-inclusive rafting trip might be just what you’re looking for. Here’s everything you need to know about these unforgettable adventures.

Keep Reading > All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Experts in wilderness travel, we have extensive connections within the industry through our 60+ combined years guiding most of the trips we offer including hundreds of rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

There is no fee for our service, ensuring the cost of your expedition is the same as booking directly with the outfitter  ( Learn more ).

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9 Best Whitewater Rafting Adventures in the U.S.

Are you looking for the thrill of a lifetime? Prepare to conquer whitewater rapids that are as exciting as they are challenging. These courses offer fast, wild rides on some of the country's most scenic rivers and have options for first-timers, whitewater experts, and everyone in between. From exploring the majesty of the Grand Canyon to detouring for a relaxing soak in hot springs, you're guaranteed a heart-racing adventure. The challenge: mastering the wild rapids. The reward: the soaking-wet glory of accomplishment.

By Zachary Laks

Colorado River

WHERE: Arizona

See the Grand Canyon like never before, as you float on a raft through the challenging waters of the Colorado River. Nine rafting companies operate on the river, offering a variety of trip packages from half-day trips to extended two-week journeys. For those looking to experience the rush of the Colorado River, start planning now—the raft trips available to the public often sell out up to two years in advance. For beginner one-day trips, the standard route runs primarily through the Hualapai Reservation , giving rafters an up-close view of the rich orange hues of the western Grand Canyon. The rapids on the average day trip are Class II and III, considered moderate on a whitewater rafting scale that goes up to VI.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Grand Canyon Travel Guide

Gauley River

WHERE: West Virginia

West Virginia’s Gauley River provides a 35-mile stretch of Class V+ challenges throughout gorges and valleys primed for whitewater adventure. With more than one hundred rapids that rank among the most technically difficult in the country and the remote scenic landscape of the region, Gauley River attracts the sport’s most ardent adrenaline junkies. For beginners, opt for a day trip on the Upper New River, a more laidback rafting experience, where the opportunity to swim, watch for wildlife, and experience Class III rapids is optional.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s West Virginia Travel Guide

Salmon River

WHERE: Idaho

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River gets top marks for its incredible whitewater sequences and unbeatable views of nature. The river has won acclaim for its whitewater, which includes 300 ratable rapids, six natural hot springs, and pristine campsites. Take in the high country forest, towering granite canyons, and grasslands of Idaho’s rich terrain while on the lookout for the regions black bears, bighorn sheep, moose, mountain lions, and more.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Idaho Travel Guide

Rogue River

WHERE: Oregon

Rogue River flows along the southwest region of Oregon from the Cascade Mountains into the Pacific Ocean. Green-forested canyons line the river’s challenging rapids, most notably Rainie Falls (Class V), Upper and Lower Black Bar Falls (Class III+), and Blossom Bar (Class IV-V). Day trips on the Rogue River follow the stream from Hog Creek to Grave Creek, giving rafters the chance to push through the popular Argo rapids (Class II). While onboard, look to the treetops to spot the many eagles, osprey, and heron that call the river home.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Oregon Travel Guide

Arkansas River

WHERE: Colorado and Arkansas

Stretching east from Colorado to Arkansas (and passing through Kansas and Oklahoma ), the Rocky Mountains of Colorado provide ample whitewater thrills at the source of the Arkansas River. Multiple adventure companies offer half-day, full-day, and extended trips through the valleys and gorges of the river, starting easy with a float down the river from Buena Vista . The pace picks up on the daylong Browns Canyon section, where Class II-III rapids, such as the Zoom Flume and the Big Drop, provide the perfect thrill amidst incredible mountainous terrain.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Colorado Travel Guide and Fodor’s Arkansas Travel Guide

Nenana River

WHERE: Alaska

The glacial river from Mt. McKinley that is most popular in Alaska for whitewater rafting is the Nenana River, flowing north through the Alaskan mainland to Denali National Park . With ten miles of challenging Class IV rapids, the river is ensconced by the steep canyons of the Alaska Range Mountains , where golden eagles and wild sheep are in abundance. Get your oars in place to navigate the river’s Canyon Run, one of most popular day trips from Denali Outdoor Center , a local rafting adventure company. The day trips range in difficulty depending on the route, but the rapids can get up to an impressive Class IV, providing the best full-body workout around.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Alaska Travel Guide

Youghiogheny River

WHERE: Pennsylvania

Just a quick 30-minute drive south of Pittsburgh , the Youghiogheny River ranks high on the whitewater rapids of the East Coast for its reliable water flow, its long season (March through October), and its many classes of rapids for all levels. For those seeking an adventure without risks, plan an excursion through the Lower Youghiogheny River, where a demanding course of Class III-IV rapids will test your might and reward you with fun rapids like the Double Hydraulics and the Railroad.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Pittsburgh Travel Guide

Kennebec River

WHERE: Maine

Once you’re floating down the Kennebec River, which launches from the towering Harris Station Dam, you’re certain to find a challenge ahead. Maine ’s destination for day-trippers looking for a whitewater thrill, the Kennebec River is home to many local companies that provide rafts, expert guides, and equipment for the perfect summer excursion. Class III and IV rapids dot the 12-mile day journey, along with some harrowing rapids, including the Three Sisters and the aptly named drop, Magic Falls.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Maine Travel Guide

Deerfield River

WHERE: Massachusetts

It’s not easy to find a whitewater river in the North East, but Bostonians revel in the close proximity (a two-hour drive) to the great runs of the Deerfield River that extends from Vermont to northwestern Massachusetts . For the most rewarding day on the river, opt for the Monroe Bridge Dryway, navigated by Zoar Outdoor , where overcoming Class IV rapids in the backwoods of the Berkshires is celebrated with a delicious barbecue lunch.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor’s Berkshires Travel Guide

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USA TODAY 10Best

Ride the rapids: 10 best white water rafting tours in the US

Best White Water Rafting Tour (2023) June 9, 2023

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best whitewater rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting is a great way to add a dash of adventure to a trip. 

These 10 companies – voted by readers as the best for white water rafting tours in the United States – get top marks for their exciting itineraries, variety of options and well-trained guides.

No. 10: Hells Canyon Raft - McCall, Idaho

This Idaho-based raft company believes every turn of the river has a story to tell, and their Hells Canyon rafting trips are “journeys through a land rich in myth and geologic wonder.” Enjoy a three-, four-, five-, or six-day trip on the Snake River, where boulders and rockslides have created the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Between the rapids, watch for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk and deer. For family fun, take a four- or five-day trip along the Salmon River, where the rapids are still exciting but family-friendly.

No. 9: Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads trips in Colorado, Utah and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

No. 8: Wilderness Voyageurs - Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania

With Wilderness Voyageurs, guests can enjoy several different whitewater rafting adventures on rivers in Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia. They offer trips for all skill levels and ages, with some suitable for young children.

No. 7: ACE Adventure Resort - Oak Hill, West Virginia

Hoping to conquer the surging rapids of New River Gorge National Park during your next trip to West Virginia? Look no further than ACE Adventure Resort, a tour operator that specializes in day excursions ranging from beginner level jaunts to master-class expeditions.

No. 6: Rivers & Oceans - Flagstaff, Arizona

With Rivers & Oceans, adventurous travelers can explore the rivers of the western United States. Choose between one-day trips through the Grand Canyon or multi-day rafting itineraries in Utah, Oregon, Arizona or Idaho.

No. 5: Wildwater Rafting - Multiple locations

Wildwater, the southeast's "original professional outfitter," has been leading whitewater rafting trips since 1971. With outposts on three rivers throughout the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, Wildwater offers a variety of rafting trips ranging from family-friendly to wildly epic.

No. 4: Glacier Guides and Montana Raft - West Glacier, Montana

This Montana-based tour company can’t wait to take you rafting down the stunning Flathead River in Glacier National Park. Enjoy thrilling Class II-III whitewater rafting adventures with various rafting experiences for a half-day or fully day. Also available are overnight/multi-day trips for rafters of all levels.

No. 3: Pocono Whitewater Rafting - Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Pocono Whitewater has whitewater rafting adventures for everyone in the family, with no experience required. Paddle through 17 sets of rapids on a 12-mile trip with Class II-III rapids and astonishing scenery. Or take a guided, more relaxed family-style adventure with Class I-II rapids. There’s even a moonlight rafting experience where you leave at sundown and navigate through rapids by moonlight.

No. 2: Western River Expeditions - Salt Lake City, Utah

Western River Expeditions has more than 60 years of experience guiding trips along the rivers and canyons of the American West. Today, the company offers itineraries in Arizona (Grand Canyon), Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Costa Rica.

No. 1: Northwest Rafting Company - Hood River, Oregon

Northwest Rafting Company specializes in rafting trips on Oregon’s Rogue River and Idaho’s Salmon River, though guests can also choose multi-day trips along the Owyhee, Illinois or Chetco rivers. Specialty itineraries add in gourmet food, yoga sessions or live bluegrass music. Trips last four to six days.

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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17 Great Places To Go White Water Rafting in the USA

White water rafting is the perfect activity if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. The United States is home to many great places for rafting, so you’ll find the perfect spot. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there’s a river waiting for you.

River rafting is unique because you’re engaged in every minute you spend on the water as you have to listen to your guide for the next set of instructions. The intensity of rapids also makes it easy to scale, so everyone in your group is comfortable and has a good time.

Whether you have no experience on the river or are a seasoned river rat looking for your next rafting excursion, check out our list of 17 great places to go white water rafting in the USA.

If you’re looking for an exciting whitewater rafting trip, look no further than Alaska. With millions of acres worth of wilderness, Alaska harbors some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Chugach Outdoor Center is a great outfitter to book your white water raft trip in Hope. They provide several levels of trips, from the adventurous class IV and V rapids to the mild class II and III rapids on Six Mile Creek.

Bring plenty of warm clothes here, for when you’re on the river and when you get off. Be sure you have a dry bag to keep your extra clothes nice and dry.

If you’re looking for a thrilling whitewater rafting experience, the Deschutes River in Maupin, Oregon, is the place to be.

The Deschutes River is surrounded by some of the most beautiful and scenic countrysides in the United States and is well known for its challenging rapids. It’s the perfect place to enjoy white water rafting, whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner.

ROW Adventures offers a variety of tours on the Deschutes River for folks who want to experience white water rafting. No matter your experience level, ROW Adventures can provide you with a tour that will suit your needs.

A list of the best places to white water raft in the USA isn’t complete without mentioning one of the world’s most iconic places to float: the Grand Canyon.

Carved out of millions of years of erosion from the Colorado River, Grand Canyon rafting offers adventurers the opportunity to view the scenic towering cliffs from a perspective that most will never get to see.

You’ll be awestruck by just how massive the canyon is. However, the rapids are incredibly fun, and there are many places to pull off to the side and explore slot canyons and creeks. Wilderness River Adventures is a great company to book your trip through the Grand Canyon.

They offer several float trips, from a full-day rafting trip around Horseshoe Bend to multi-day trips that take you through the heart of the Grand Canyon .

Kernville, CA

One of the best-kept secrets in Southern California is the accessibility to prime white water rafting. Located just 3 hours outside of Los Angeles is the Kern River.

This playful river is fed by snowmelt from the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains and provides some of the most incredible scenery in California. Mountain & River Adventures is an excellent company for rafting on the Kern River.

They offer fantastic trips down the Kern River and have an on-site campground, making it easy to spend a couple of days here to explore the Kern River fully.

The most iconic river in California is the American River. Gold was discovered in the American River in 1848, prompting the 1849 gold rush that attracted people worldwide to emigrate to California.

While you likely won’t find gold on your white water rafting trip, you’ll create golden memories that will last a lifetime.

For a trip on the American River, check out Whitewater Excitement Inc. They offer several excursions, from mild Class I and II rapids for beginners to wild Class IV and V rapids for advanced paddlers.

Buena Vista, CO

Are you looking for your next family adventure ? Colorado white water is some of the best in the USA.

One of the best white water rafting spots in Colorado is Buena Vista. You can access the Arkansas River as it flows through Browns Canyon. The river gets nice and rowdy with several Class III and IV rapids, making it a wild ride.

Several companies will take you down the Arkansas River from Buena Vista, but Timberline Tours is the best. Timberline has been in business for over 50 years and has people coming to book river adventures with them year after year.

Canyon City, CO

White water rafting often takes you through canyons since the rivers tend to cut deep into the earth after millions of years of flow. So you’re in for quite the white water adventure when you visit Canyon City, CO.

The town is named for the effects of the river flowing through it. The Arkansas River that began just north of Buena Vista continues through Canyon City and, most notably, the Royal Gorge.

Check out Raft Masters for your trip down the Arkansas River and through the Royal Gorge. Also, watch for bighorn sheep and the train that snakes through the Gorge.

Colorado is a popular whitewater rafting spot. Eagle is a special place because you have the option of rafting on not one but two different rivers. The Eagle River and the Upper Colorado River are easily accessible from the town of Eagle and offer vastly different experiences.

The Eagle River is full of fun class III rapids to keep your adrenaline high throughout your float. The Upper Colorado River is a more relaxing float with a couple of fun class II and III rapids.

Once again, the best outfitter to book a white water rafting trip from Eagle, CO, is Timberline Tours. Their main boathouse is conveniently located in Eagle, a great place to meet before your trip.

Riggins, ID

Who’s ready for a family rafting trip?

Idaho is one of the best places to go white water rafting in the USA because the snow from the jagged mountain peaks melts and fills the rivers at the bottom of cavernous canyons, making for unique white water opportunities.

Like Eagle, CO, Riggins offers two great rivers to raft on: the Salmon River, known as “The River of No Return,” and the Snake River. A great company to book your trip with is Mountain River Outfitters. They offer several options for paddling on your choice of rivers, ranging from fun single-day trips to amazing multi-day trips.

The best part is that the rafting guides provide you with all of your meals for the day when you book a full-day or multi-day trip. Be sure you have a waterproof backpack to keep your gear dry!

Gardiner, MT

The Yellowstone River is one of the most iconic rivers in the USA. It served as the primary transportation means for the Lewis and Clark expedition during the early 1800s. It has been a water source and spirituality for the many Native American tribes that call its banks home.

First, book your trip with Montana Whitewater Rafting & Yellowstone Zipline Tours.

Then, get the thrill of taking one of the most important rivers in the USA through one of the country’s oldest and most iconic national parks, Yellowstone National Park. If you need more adventure, book a zip line too!

Missoula, MT

Northwestern Montana is one of the best places to get some white water rafting action.

When you visit Missoula, you don’t need to walk further than downtown to get to some choice of white water rafting, as the Clark Fork runs right through the heart of town.

A great company to float within Missoula is Zoo Town Surfers. They offer not only guided trips down the Clark Fork but they also rent kayaks and even surfboards. So the sky’s the limit to playing on the Clark Fork in Missoula. 

North Carolina is a hidden gem when it comes to white water rafting. Ocoee River rafting offers some of the best white water rafting in the US, and it was the home to the 1996 Olympics for white water events.

The Nantahala River is another great river rafting option for the whole family. Located on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this river offers whitewater rapids perfect for beginners and those with little experience.

In addition, the scenery along the river is beautiful, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way. So if you’re looking for a fun and adventurous day trip, consider rafting down the Nantahala River.

If that doesn’t scream amazing white water rafting, I don’t know what does. The best company to go rafting down the Ocoee River is Carolina Outfitters.

They’ll take you down some of the best white water rapids in the state, filling your heart full of adrenaline and your mind full of awe and wonder of the natural beauty that springs up around you as you float. You will find something for every experience level.

Lehighton, PA

White water rafting likely isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Pennsylvania. When someone says they’re visiting PA, large industrial cities and old colonial history are what folks imagine.

However, most don’t realize that rafting here is fantastic. Jim Thorpe River Adventures does a great job of offering guided trip services and teaching guests how to paddle guide their own boat.

You’ll get the experience of captaining your own raft as the guide offers instructions from a chase kayak as you make your way down the Lehigh River.

A town that is about as western as you can get is Moab. Several Western movies have been filmed in Moab, giving it that iconic old Western vibe. Massive red sandstone cliffs rise from the desert floor as the Colorado River flows through it.

There are several areas to go rafting in Moab, ranging from easy day-long trips to wild multi-day trips.

A great company to go with in Moab is Red River Adventures. With over 20 years in the business, they’ve perfected their trips to allow you to fully experience all that the Colorado River has to offer as it flows to the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

In northeastern Utah, you’ll find one of the most exciting rivers in the USA. The Green River takes you through some pretty unique geological locations.

The most astounding part is that you’ll find petroglyphs carved into the side of the rocks along the river from the ancient Fremont people that lived there thousands of years ago. You’ll also travel through the Dinosaur National Monument, home to one of the country’s largest concentrations of dinosaur fossils.

Keep your eyes peeled as you float to see if you can spot more fossils embedded in the canyon walls. A great company to book your trip with is OARS Dinosaur. They offer several levels of trips, from mild to wild and single-day to multi-day, so you’ll get the best trip for you and your group.

Lansing, WV

If you’re looking for a heart-pumping wild ride of a trip, look no further than Lansing, WV. Lansing is home to several outfitters that take only the bravest paddlers down one of the USA’s most formidable rivers: the Gauley.

With large waves, massive holes, and stomach-turning drops, your adrenaline will be up from stepping into the raft until you get out. New & Gauley River Adventures is a great company to book your tour. They’ve been in the business for over 30 years, which is the experience you want when braving the Gauley River.

Jackson, WY

Jackson, Wyoming, is one of the most beautiful places in the USA. In addition, Jackson is near two of the best National Parks in the country, Yellowstone National Park and Grand Tetons National Park.

Plus, it’s got access to some excellent white water rafting. Book a trip with Teton Whitewater and explore the Snake River’s exciting class III and IV rapids as it flows past some of the most scenic mountain ranges in the country.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know where to go, it’s time to plan your river trip. First, make sure to pack the proper clothing for the river. Never wear cotton clothes, as cotton tends to absorb water and keep you cold and wet while on your trip, which can be a minor inconvenience or incredibly dangerous depending on the weather.

If winds pick up and the temperature drops to around 60°F, hypothermia can set in. Stay safe, and pack wool or polyester clothes for your white water adventure. 

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Where to Find the Best Whitewater Rafting in the U.S.

Whitewater rafting is the ultimate adrenaline-pumping adventure! Check out this list of the best whitewater rafting in the U.S.

Ask any group of whitewater guides what their favorite river is, and you’ll probably get a host of different answers. However, there are a few spots that consistently rank for the best whitewater rafting in the U.S., and we’ve gathered them all (plus a few personal faves!). Whether you are a total beginner or a master wave rider, there is nothing like the thrill of a rafting experience. It’s an exercise in adrenaline, teamwork, and unity with nature—an excellent outing for families with older kids, a group of close friends, or even a group of coworkers who want a teambuilding experience that is actually fun! If you’re ready for a new challenge, here are just a few of the best whitewater rafting adventures in the United States to add to your bucket list.

Explore Denali National Park with Let’s Roam!

Denali National Park is not only home to the tallest mountain in the United States, but it’s also where the fantastically fun whitewater rafting river, the Nenana, is located. To get to know this epic park on an intimate level, check out our “ Denali’s Wild Adventure Hunt .” You’ll explore the Alaska Railroad Depot, Mount Healy Overlook Trail, and much more on an amusing adventure full of fun photo and video ops and fascinating trivia! It’s the absolute best way to get to know Denali!

The Best Whitewater Rafting Destinations in the U.S.

To be clear, they’re in no particular order! If you’re a first-timer, pay attention to the rapid rating listed. It’s generally not recommended to take on whitewater rapids of more than Class III on your first go. However, if you’re brave and athletic, and will have a good guide, then you may consider moving up the chain a bit. Most rivers on the list will be a combination of rapid classifications, interspersed with some slower scenic bits, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings for a few restful minutes before bracing for the next crash.

1. Ocoee River: Tennessee

The Ocoee is a personal favorite. It’s just such a fun river! The Ocoee isn’t on most lists of the best whitewater rafting spots, but it’s actually the most popular whitewater rafting adventure in America, and it’s a great one for beginners. This half-day trip involves ten miles on the Upper and Middle Ocoee River in the Cherokee National Forest of Southeast Tennessee. The river has an interesting flow pattern. During the night, it’s diverted to a neighboring electric plant where its rapids provide energy for the surrounding cities for the next day, and in the morning, it’s unleashed for adventurers. As you romp down the river, you’ll see the massive water diversion tubes above you at one point.

If you do the full tour, you’ll work your way through Class III and IV rapids, 20 sets of continuous ones. There isn’t much downtime on this river until the end, so you’ll definitely earn your dinner for the day—with dessert! You’ll start your adventure at the Ocoee Rafting Center near Ducktown, Tennessee.

The location is a feasible day trip from Blue Ridge or Atlanta, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; and Chattanooga, Tennessee. There are several companies in the region that do a fantastic job. All will outfit you with equipment and do a quick rundown of safety protocol and technique. You’ll be paired with a professional tour guide, and driven to the drop site. From there, it’s a wild ride! Not only is this a fun river, full of action, but the stunning forests of South Tennessee surround you. During the summer months, tours are run during the week. During the should seasons of April, May, September, and October, only weekend trips run.

2. Colorado River: Arizona

While a tamer river, the Colorado is a bucket list river trip due to its stunning location at the base of one of the seven natural wonders of the world—the mighty Grand Canyon. You really can’t get a much more scenic river! There are around ten outfitters offering excursions on the river that range from half-day trips to multi-week excursions. While most of the river usually has moderate Class II and Class III rapids, during certain times of the year and in small sections, they can reach the maximum Class VI. Therefore, a day trip on the Colorado River can entertain experienced rafters and provide a great introduction for first-timers.

You will need to plan this journey far in advance. Public rafting adventures often sell out 1-2 years in advance. Day trips generally start at the Hualapai Reservation, escorting you through some of the most vibrant orange sections of the canyon. If you can snag a spot, it’s the absolute best way to see the grand gal!

3. Snake River: Wyoming

Wyoming is one of the most naturally beautiful states in the union. Home to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons, it’s a marvel! There’s also no better place to take on some Class V rapids. The Snake River is a Wyoming favorite, boasting a series of Class III-V rapids surrounded by towering mountains and thick forests.

Leaving out of popular tourist location, Jackson Hole, Barker Ewing offers a wonderful eight-mile trip focused on the best rapid sections or a longer 16-mile, full-day trip that is a combination scenic float and whitewater rafting trip. They run tours from May-September when the water levels are highest. Here is a good time to note that the “best time” to go whitewater rafting depends heavily on the location. With Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho, the water levels are generally higher in the summer months as run-off from the melting snow causes rivers to rise. However, Arkansas, Tennessee, and other Southern destinations are too hot in mid-summer and the water levels are generally lower. Now, back to regularly scheduled entertainment… the eight-mile trip takes about four hours to complete, and you’ll need to set aside a full day for the 16-miler.

4. Gauley River: West Virginia

Now, let’s head to West Virginia for one of the most challenging stretches of rapids in the United States. The Gauley River is a raging Class II-Class V+ monster, affectionately known as “the Beast of the East.” It attracts the most ardent river rats from all over the world and is consistently voted in the top five best rafting rivers on Earth. For experienced rafters, the Upper Gauley provides a ten-mile stretch of Class V-VI rapids in a challenging gorge with a 335-foot drop. While that’s not a big drop over that span, it is combined with tight turns and technical rapids. You’ll tackle a series of more than 100 technically difficult rapids, and the journey takes about four hours. You must be 16 and have previous rafting experience to raft the Upper Gauley.

The Lower Gauley is a totally different situation. It’s a 14-mile stretch with 35 rapids and is appropriate for first-time paddlers, though there are fun chutes and large waves in sections. It too takes about four hours to complete and can be done by children as young as 12. The Gauley River is dam controlled, and the Core of Engineers releases the flow after Labor Day for six weeks. This is the best time to raft all portions of the river for excellent rapids! The rest of the year is great for kayaking and calmer floats.

If you are a total beginner or are looking for a family-friend adventure, consider a trip on the Upper New River. It’s part of the same watershed flowing through New River Gorge National Park, but it’s further south and much calmer. A day trip on the New River offers wildlife watching, a swimming portion, and a more manageable section of Class I-III rapids. Check out River Expeditions to explore all the rafting options in the area.

5. Kennebec River: Maine

The Kennebec River is one of the only good whitewater rafting destinations in the Northeast portion of the United States. Flowing from Harris Station Dam, it consists of a 12-mile portion of mostly Class IV rapids and a big drop known as Magic Falls. It’s a fun river with a moderate set of rapids, especially on the upper portion of the river.

There are several reputable companies, mostly operating out of West Forks. Most offer a day trip with lunch included. The trip takes from 4-6 hours depending on the water level and flow at the time, and the season runs from May to October. Most companies in the area require children to be at least ten years old to raft the upper river and eight to do the lower.

6. Arkansas River: Colorado

Yes, you read that right. We’re going rafting on the Arkansas River at its headwaters, which is halfway across the country in the Great Rocky Mountains. The fifth longest river in the country, you can raft, kayak, tube, and swim in the Arkansas River across several states, but the favorite spot is probably the Royal Gorge in Colorado, followed by Browns Canyon.

The Browns Canyon section is slightly calmer with Class II-III rapids with stunning mountain surroundings. As you flow farther south and east, you’ll hit the Royal Gorge section which is filled with continuous rapids that require technical paddling, feature steep drops, and require some concentration. Take a second if you have it to peak at the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge overhead.

Multiple companies offer half-day, full-day day, and extended trips, usually putting in on the calm waters near Buena Vista. If you are looking for a long rafting trip with a variety of challenging rapids and scenic floats, you really can’t get more beautiful than this stage of the Arkansas River.

7. Rogue River: Oregon

Well… the name says it all now doesn’t it? The Rogue River in Southwest Oregon originates in the towering Cascade Mountains, just west of Crater Lake, and flows to the Pacific Ocean through some of the most epic landscapes in the United States. Rafting the Rogue involves traversing densely forested canyons, wild rapids, and several small waterfalls. The Grant Pass section is known to be especially thrilling. Unfortunately, the Lower Rogue is available only by permit, limiting it to 120 people daily. The Rogue is one of the most varied rivers in terms of rapid classification with everything from Class I still waters to Class V, depending on the section and the season.

Morrison Rogue Wilderness Adventures has been escorting adventurers for 50 years! They offer everything from multi-day floating and camping trips to half-day wild rapid adventures.

8. Salmon River: Idaho

Ever heard of the Salmon River? Well, its stats might surprise you. Not only is it one of the largest rivers in the United States, but it flows at the base of one of the deepest canyons. with a little over 7,000 feet of vertical cliffs, the canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon, and second only to Hell’s Canyon in the United States. This vast crevice provides incredible views for a river rafting trip! It’s colloquially known as “The River of No Return.”

Most rafters choose the Middle Fork of the Salmon River for unbeatable views and hundreds of rapids. This river is not only an adventure but a full vacation all in one. It has sandy white beaches, six natural hot springs, over 300 rated rapids, towering granite walls, as well as epic wildlife spotting like black bears, moose, and bighorn sheep. What more can you ask for in an outdoor adventure?

The river is most Class III-IV rapids, but there are areas with smaller rapids and chills pools that are more appropriate for beginners and families. The Middle Fork is 105 miles with more than 100 rapids and a 3,000-foot drop that is sure to keep your adrenaline pumping. The Lower Salmon has the warmest waters, the best campsites, and awesome beaches! There are several companies that offer trips on the Salmon, but the 4-5 day Family Magic Trip at Row Adventures is an awesome family option.

9. Youghiogheny River: Pennsylvania

Don’t ask us to pronounce this Algonquin word meaning “a stream that flows in a contrary direction,” but just trust us that it’s awesome. Located about 30 minutes south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the Youghiogheny flows northward. It’s a fabulous river for whitewater rafting because it offers options for every level of rafter depending on the season and where you put in.

Expert river rafts will want to take on the Upper Yough located in the state of Maryland. It presents a challenging ride with tight, technical rapids. The Lower Yough, located in Pennsylvania is more manageable for beginners and families. However, there are still Class III and sometimes IV rapids that will show you a good time! The Yough has a long whitewater season, usually from March to October. If you want to avoid the crowds, choose the shoulder seasons. The Yough is the most popular whitewater rafting destination east of the Mississippi and sees hundreds of thousands of rafters each year. Being on seven miles and easily tackled in a half-day, the Lower Yough is popular with families and youth groups.

10. Chattooga River: Georgia

The Chattooga River is the premier whitewater rafting destination in the Southeast. Impressively, it boasts Class V rapids, all by the power of Mother Nature. It’s one of the rare ones on the list that isn’t dam controlled. You can actually put in on the Chattooga in three different states: Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Like many others on the list, it has the “Wild and Scenic” designation and is protected as such by Congress.

The commercial rafting companies operate out of Sections III and IV. Section III is family-appropriate and can be rafted by children as young as eight. It takes from 4-6 hours to float the 13 miles of Class I, II, and III rapids. Stage IV is far more intense and longer at 5-7 hours. It includes rapids up to Class VI in high months. While the season runs from March to October, waters are usually low by July.

11. Deerfield River: Massachusetts

Another Northeastern adventure awaits just a two-hour drive from Boston. The Deerfield River runs from Verton to NW Massachusetts and boasts Class IV rapids in the serene, forest scenery of the Berkshire Mountains. Like most rivers, the northern sections of Vermont are best tackled by experienced rafters and kayakers. However, the Mass section features Class III-V manageable rapids and calmer stretches with a few peaceful swimming pools. The Deerfield is a dam-controlled river with scheduled water-release dates between May and October. There are two primary sections for rafting.

Zoar Gap Run

The Zoar Gap Run is the most popular as it’s manageable for beginners and offers a few more advanced runs for an adrenaline rush. It also has the most reliable water with more than 100 scheduled release dates during the season. It’s ten miles long through gorgeous canyons and a slightly technical boulder garden. Keep an eye out for red-tail hawks, bald eagles, beavers, and bald eagles once you’re through the rapids and venture into calmer waters.

The Dryway is a bit more technical and remote. The put-in is high in the Berkshire Mountains. The run is only 3.5 miles but is through Class III-IV rapids the whole time. It’s fast, furious, and fabulous!

12. Tuolumne River: California

Let’s head back out west to a 149-mile California stunner, the Tuolomne. The Tuolumne has a long history of sucking us into its glory, with rafters hitting the waters regularly as early as the 1960s. While there are certainly more manageable sections where commercial guides take families, the main draw of Tuolomne is the Cherry Creek Section with is a series of 15 consecutive sets of Class V rapids, one of the most difficult stretches of white water rafting anywhere in the country.

The river begins in Yosemite National Park and sections are characterized by vast drops, waterfalls, intense remoteness, and technical bouldering. Unless you are going with a commercial guide (even then some experience is recommended), in one of the calmer sections, you really better know your way around the water if you plan on tackling “The T.”

O.A.R.S. offers multi-day rafting tours on the Tuolumne that are combination wine-tasting tours or craft beer runs. Don’t worry, the booze is reserved for once you reach the campsite each evening. After a day with that kind of adrenaline, a good stout brew is most welcome! Multi-day trips include additional guided hikes, camping, and swimming opportunities.

13. Rio Grande: New Mexico

The Rio Grande is a big daddy with a lot of variety. Just north of the New Mexico state line, you can hop on the Ute Mountain Run which flows through a large lava rock plain. The rapids are fairly gentle, and there are ample wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer, elk, and golden eagles. It’s a 24-mile stretch that goes by pretty fast. The trail is closed during April and May for bird mating season. Also, if you take this run, you will have to carry your boat out up a steep hill, as the next five miles after Lee Trail is choked with boulders and not recommended for rafting.

The Taos Box

The next great section is probably the most popular and is known as the Taos Box. It’s a 17-mile stretch of Class II-IV+ rapids that demand attention. It’s fast-moving, with a few fun drops and almost constant rapids. Most commercial companies operate on this stretch, so it’s easy to get a good tour. Not only are you traversing some insanely fun waters, but the towering black basalt canyons above are pretty marvelous too!

The Racecourse

Below the Taos Box, starting in the Orilla Verde Recreation Area, there is a series of slightly challenging rapids along N.M. 68 called the Racecourse. It’s very popular for families and more inexperienced rafters. Longer tours may include a slow float through the apple orchards, a pass-through White Rock Canyon, and some side hikes to waterfalls and Native American ruins in the area. Keep your eye out for hot water springs, ancient petroglyphs, and ruins along the way, when you aren’t being bashed by giant waves that is. Big River Raft Trips is one of the more experienced and highly rated tour operators in the area.

14. Cossatot River: Arkansas

Another Arkansas beauty with a “Wild and Scenic” designation, the Cossatot is for the adventurous. It is primarily tackled by kayakers and canoeists, as there are no commercial rafting companies offering tours. You can however rent kayaks and canoes at Sugar Creek Lodging near the city of Mena. It’s fair to say here though that like all of Arkansas’s rivers, the Cossatot’s adventure rating is highly correlated with the season and rainfall for the year. Arkansas is a hot state in the summer months, and most rivers run low or dry. You’ll want to tackle the Cossatot in the spring with the waters are high. That being said, in the right season, you’ll tackle Class IV and V rapids in succession through rocky canyons, fun ledges, and a pretty steep fall.

The great thing about the Cossatot is that between bashing waves, you’ll find smaller rapids, relaxed pools, and fishing opportunities to vary up your adventure. You can also camp along most of the river, so just pull over when you’re ready to turn in for the night. The locals will greet you with a beer, some s’mores, and plenty of Southern barbecue.

15. Nenana River: Alaska

Last, but definitely not least, we make our way up to the winter wonderland of Alaska. Running through Denali National Park, the Nenana River is a glacial beauty that provides its visitors with more than ten miles of Class IV rapids to play on. While the water is great, the surrounding environment is to die for. The steep slopes of the Alaska Range Mountains envelop the river with astonishing beauty, and the area is home to wild sheep and golden eagles. It also helps that the tallest mountain in the United States, Mount McKinley, is looming in the background. Doesn’t get much more picturesque than that.

Denali Raft Adventures is the primary operator in the area and offer a collection of tours ranging from the two-hour wild ride of Canyon Run to more scenic floats like the Wilderness Run. You can also do a combination of both for a full day of fun and mind-blowing beauty.

What You Need to Know About Whitewater Rafting

You can do it.

While it is the ultimate adventure, whitewater rafting, especially with a commercial company is a fairly safe adventure for most travelers. You’ll be outfitted with excellent safety gear from the best helmets to Coast-Guard-approved life jackets in most places. You will be given a safety briefing and arranged in the raft by physical strength, age, and experience. The guide will do most of the work from the back of the raft, and they generally stick the young and fit in the front to help with the bulk of the paddling.

Speaking of positioning, if you have a bad knee or ankle, let the guide know. You will be using your outer leg (the one next to the raft) to stabilize yourself as you paddle, and it will be wedged in the groove of the raft, so you don’t want your bad leg locked in that position. For instance, if you have a bad right knee, then you will want to sit on the left side of the raft.

If you’ve never been rafting before, don’t stress. As long as you can follow directions, and don’t have any neck, back, or knee injuries to worry about, you should be good to go! So, don’t worry too much that it’s out of your league. You’ll likely be very surprised at how manageable most rivers are and at how much fun you have!

Read the fine print.

As with any adventure, you may want to scope out a few companies for your river run before you choose. This is especially true if you have small children. Some parks and even individual companies have age or weight limitation rules in place for children’s safety. It would be a real bummer to plan a whole trip around river rafting only to find out when you arrive that your eight-year-old can’t participate.

Monitor the seasons.

Rivers are temperamental and certainly change with the seasons in most areas, especially those that are not dam-regulated. Bear in mind in seasons with high rainfall, the water will be faster moving and wilder. During hot, dry months, you may be pushing your raft or kayak through sections of low water and bumping a lot of boulders. It also bears repeating that some sections of many famous rivers are closed during portions of the year for wildlife management, danger, or any other number of reasons, so do your research. Pick your season appropriately.

Bring the right gear.

As noted, your safety equipment will be given to you, but there are a few things you need to come prepared with. It’s also wise to peruse the website or email your outfitter to find out if they have any specific rules on what you can bring, as each company is a bit different. For instance, some will allow you to have a small backpack with a dry bag of snacks. Others will pack one big dry bag for everyone on the trip. Bearing that in mind, here’s a quick packing list:

• Waterproof sunscreen
• Quick-dry clothing or a comfortable swimsuit : You may also want to pack a dry outfit for each family member if you have plans directly after your rafting trip. Dry bags or lockers at the outfitters are generally provided for this.
• Water shoes : You will be traversing some riverbeds undoubtedly. You’ll need foot protection, and thin water shoes are the best for being able to easily jam your stabilization leg into the raft groove.
• Go-Pro or another waterproof camera : Some companies will not allow this, but many have clamps on their helmets ready for guests who bring their own cameras. You may want to call or email your intended company beforehand and ask if personal cameras are allowed.

Do not bring hats, sunglasses, or extra items on the boat that you are not willing to lose. If you do wear a sunhat or glasses, make sure they have strings with toggles that you can tighten for the adventure. Waves are unpredictable, and once it’s overboard, it’s gone forever. Leave your wallets, cell phones (unless attached to you in a waterproof case), and all other accessories at the outfitter.

Get ready for a wild ride!

Whitewater rafting is an adventure that the whole family can enjoy or a perfect way to get some solace in nature on a solo trip. Whether you are looking for a first-time thrill or are an avid-rapid racer, these 15 rivers provide some of the best whitewater rafting in the U.S. Pick your poison and get out there! The wild is calling!

For more fun white-wave adventures, check out “ The 10 Best Surfing Spots on the Planet .”

We’re not done yet! We’ve got adventures for the bikers too. Here’s our list of “ The Absolute Best Places to Mountain Bike on the Planet .”

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing one state as the best place for whitewater rafting is a challenge. Colorado , Oregon , and Tennessee are all fantastic vacation destinations that offer challenging river runs!

While there are several awesome rivers in the United States , the most famous is probably the Colorado River section through the Grand Canyon.

The Cherry Creek section of the Tuolumne River is one of the toughest sections of publicly floatable river in the United States.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly whitewater rafting adventure, head for Royal Gorge Colorado and take on the Class II-III rapids of the Arkansas River .

While there’s certainly risk, most commercial whitewater rafting companies provide excellent safety equipment, thorough instructions, and a professional guide making whitewater rafting a safe activity.

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Where Is The Best Whitewater Rafting In The USA?

Where is the best whitewater rafting in the USA? The most popular areas of whitewater rafting in the USA have to be California and Colorado.

Table of Contents

Canyonlands National Park is a wonderful place. You can rent a cabin there, take guided tours and enjoy some of the best whitewater rafting on the east coast. It’s also possible to do all the rafting that you want yourself. The canyon offers rapids that are challenging for everyone, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Colorado River

Another great place to raft is in Colorado . The Colorado River flows through Grand Mesa and then into the San Juan River. This means that you’ll have a river to yourself and probably the highest levels of whitewater on the east coast. There are also some fantastic rapids that you can explore in this area. If you have never been to Colorado, it would be a good idea to check out the canyon and then take a rafting trip down to Colorado Springs.

Best Whitewater Rafting

Canyonlands National Park is another great spot to go rafting. It’s located in Southern Utah and offers everything you could ask for. There are guided tours, and there are the regular fun and frolic that goes along with whitewater rafting .

Wyoming has some beautiful areas that are perfect for whitewater rafting in the USA. Wyoming is a great place to raft because it has the most wonderful scenery. Wyoming also offers rapids for more challenging whitewater rafting. Some of the best places to raft in Wyoming are Yellowstone Park.

Rafting Trip

Rowing in Alaska means that you’ll have a lot of opportunities to enjoy a variety of different rapids and lakes, and rivers. It’s also a good idea to check out what happens on one of the many glaciers in Alaska. Some of the most beautiful rapids can only be found here.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced whitewater rafter, there are a lot of great spots for whitewater rafting in the USA. All of them offer excellent scenery and offer lots of fun for the entire family. If you’re looking for a way to get fit, take a trip to one of these places.

Best Places

Most of these places have a lot to offer, but you need to take your time before you plan a trip to Alaska. Alaska doesn’t close as often as other states, so you won’t find as much of a crowd as you would if you were taking a trip to California. and seeing a lot of people in a small group.

Grand Canyon

When it comes to whitewater rafting, you can also choose from the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, the Yellowstone, and other big rivers that you can raft through. There are a lot of spots for kayaking and fishing in Alaska. The rapids are pretty hard to handle, and the waters may be a little rough, but they are still worth it if you love the outdoors and want to go rafting.

The rapids are very difficult, and you will need to be sure that you’re ready for them. That is why you should take the time to try them out before you go rafting in them. If you’re not ready, you’ll find that you’re going to be in for a lot of trouble, but if you’re ready, then you’ll have a great time.

To Wrap It Up

Wowza, what a ride we’ve had, folks! From the glistening blue waters of the West Coast’s Tuolumne River to the heart-pounding Class V rapids of the Upper Gauley in West Virginia, we’ve certainly been on a rollicking journey to discover the 10 best white water rafting places to go white water rafting in the good ol’ US of A.

For the rafting enthusiasts seeking the best whitewater rafting trip.

The Salmon River and Rogue River offer a breathtaking taste of the best.

With the former renowned for its difficult white water rafting and the latter providing a wonderful option for families. Talk about getting two birds with one stone!

Looking for a multi-day rafting trip? Look no further than the Arkansas River, a popular rafting destination with a pulsing rafting culture, and the Snake River, known for advanced whitewater river rafting conditions. These two gems top the list of the 10 best rafting trips in the United States, with stretches of the river offering everything from tranquil flat water to adrenaline-pumping rapids. There’s something for everyone here!

And let’s not forget our eastern rivers. The Chattooga River, Youghiogheny River, and the Kennebec River – they’re the trifecta of whitewater rafting in the United States. With their clear water quality and beautiful river views, they’re the best places to go for a white water rafting trip.

Last but certainly not least, we’ve got the Deerfield River and the Gauley River, the latter of which, with its Lower Gauley section, is considered the best whitewater rafting destination in the Southeast. The Deerfield River, with its class IV whitewater, offers a unique rafting experience and is a must-add to your rafting bucket list.

So, whether you’re a newbie looking to get your feet wet or a seasoned pro ready to tackle the best white water rafting trip in the USA, these are the places to go whitewater rafting. From the grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the wilds of West Virginia, there’s a river with your name on it. So grab your paddle, book your rafting trip, and get ready to dive into the best rafting trips in the U.S. It’s sure to be one heck of a hoot!

Where can I find the best whitewater rafting in the United States?

Buckle up, partner! The U.S. is home to a raft full of top-notch whitewater rapids.

Top of the pops is the adrenaline-charged Gauley River in West Virginia.

The stunning Salmon River in Idaho, and the iconic Grand Canyon’s Colorado River. They’re all must-visit spots for any rafting bucket list.

What are the 10 best places to go white water rafting in the USA?

Hold onto your paddles, folks! The top 10 best are the Gauley River, Salmon River, Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, Arkansas River, Snake River, Chattooga River, Youghiogheny River, Tuolumne River, Rogue River, and the Kennebec River. From east coast to west, these rivers offer the crème de la crème of rafting adventures.

I’m new to rafting. Where should I start?

Welcome aboard, newbie! The Deerfield River, with its Class III rapids, is a great starting point for those dipping their toes into the whitewater world. The river has something for everyone, from tranquil stretches to gentle rapids, making it a wonderful introduction to the thrill of river rafting.

What are the best multi-day rafting trips in the U.S.?

If you’re after more than just a day trip, you’re in luck! Multi-day rafting on the Snake River and the Arkansas River offers an immersive rafting adventure. These rivers are the talk of the town, offering a mix of whitewater rapids and stunning wildlife views – a real feast for the senses!

I’m an experienced rafter. What are the most challenging rivers in the United States?

Ah, a thrill-seeker, eh? The Upper Gauley River, with its Class V rapids, is the holy grail for seasoned rafters. Add to that list the Class IV rapids of the Tuolumne River and the exciting water flow of the Rogue River, and you’ve got the trifecta of rafted rivers for advanced rafting opportunities.

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The 11 Best Wild and Scenic River Trips in America

Some of the best wilderness in the country has no trail at all. grab a paddle and get ready for the ultimate summer on the water with these 11 trips down national wild and scenic rivers..

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Congress established National Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1968. The designation applies to waterways that “possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values,” and stipulates that they “be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” Today, there are 12,347 protected miles on 208 rivers in 40 states. Explore your aquatic heritage, starting with these 11 floats, which range from easy paddles to whitewater.

Klamath River, California

Length 286 miles Designated 1981

The ingredients for a perfect family river trip: warm water, exciting rapids, bald eagles, and waterfront camps where the fire’s sparks mingle with the stars. While the upper section of the 286-mile Klamath roils out of Oregon with Class IV power, the Lower K has a mellower pace that’s fit for an introductory rafting trip. From the put-in at Happy Camp, dip paddles into the 70°F water (average August temperature) and head west, keeping an eye on the sky for raptors, the water for otters, and the banks for black bears. One thing you won’t find: boredom. The 20-mile trip has jumping rocks and riffles aplenty, and Class II/III Savage Rapid offers up a kid-size portion of whitewater. And should you need some ideas for campfire stories, the Bigfoot Trail runs through these same Klamath mountains.

Klamath River Trip Planner 

Permit None Season April to August Put-in Sluice Box Take-out Happy Creek Outfitter   oars.com

Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine

Length 92.5 miles Designated 1970

The 92.5 miles of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams in the blueberry- and bear-filled North Maine Woods are as iconic a canoe setting as you’ll find in the U.S. Tackle a six-day, 62-mile trip from Churchill Dam to Allagash Village , which includes lakes, Class II rapids, and a .3-mile, mandatory portage around 40-foot Allagash Falls. By day, look for moose, eagles, and common terns beyond your gunwales, as well as Katahdin poking out above the mixed-forest canopy. By night, camp at any of the 40 named sites while loon calls serenade you to sleep. Best bet: Hit the water in September, when the fall colors from red maple and quaking aspen stand out against the deep greens of mixed firs.

Allagash Wilderness Waterway Trip Planner

Permit Required ($13 for nonresidents)  Season May to September Put-in Churchill Dam Take-out Allagash Village Outfitter 

Middle Fork of the Salmon, Idaho

Length 104 miles Designated 1968

With rapids as big as the wilderness they pass through, the 104 miles of the Middle Fork of the Salmon through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness top just about every thrill-seeking rafter’s bucket list. That makes permits a tough get during the lottery window. Better bet: Wait until late summer, when crowds subside and trout are chunking up for the winter. Best part? Hot springs at camp all eight nights. Don’t miss Hospital Bar (mile 53), where a 115°F spring bubbles up into a pool so close to the river you can cast a fly while you soak.

Middle Fork of the Salmon Trip Planner

Permit Required ($10 + $4/person per day); lottery for May 23 to Sept. 3 Season May to September Put-in Boundary Creek Take-out Cache Bar Outfitter blackadarboating.com

John Day River, Oregon

Length 147.5 miles Designated 1988

This is as close as it gets to a relaxed cruise through big Western terrain. The John Day , the third-longest undammed river in the Lower 48, passes through a volcanic wonderland of black, basalt gorges and colorful, fossil-filled ash deposits. For the most part, the lower section ambles along leisurely, letting you relax, take in the scenery, and birdwatch as you drift downstream. The 70 miles from Clarno to Cottonwood are mostly Class I /II, but Class III/IV Clarno Rapids lurks around mile 5 (scout from river left; portage if you need to). Below that is smooth sailing through 1,200-foot-deep canyons and rolling, grassy hillsides at a soporific pace. Target stands of junipers to camp in the shade and look for mule deer, river otters, golden eagles, and red-tailed hawks.

John Day River Trip Planner 

Permit Required ($20/group); reserve ahead May 20 to July 10; Season April to June Put-in Clarno Take-out Cottonwood Bridge Outfitter servicecreek.com

Missouri River, Montana

Length 149 miles Designated 1976

When Lewis and Clark floated the Missouri on their westward journey, they saw a landscape unmarred by human industry. The river left its mark on the party: “As we passed on, it seemed those [scenes] of visionary [enchantment] would never have an end,” Lewis wrote in 1805. You won’t regret the 10 days it takes to run the entire 149 miles, but if you don’t have an expedition-length vacation, hit the three-day, 47-mile stretch from Coal Banks to Judith Landing. There, the water courses through an 800-foot-deep canyon of white eagle sandstone, flows across the plains, and threads through layer-cake badlands within Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Camping is plentiful in designated sites, including three Lewis and Clark campsites and historic Blackfeet and Flathead tribal sites with petroglyphs.

Missouri River Trip Planner

Permit Required ($4/adult per day) Season May to September Put-in Coal Banks Take-out Judith Landing Outfitter adventureboundcanoe.com

Rio Grande, Texas

Length 191.2 miles Designated 1978

Desert dwellers like others to think their stomping grounds are too arid and desolate for the rest of us to enjoy. Don’t be fooled. From open, cactus-filled Chihuahuan landscapes to tight, twisty canyons and shady arroyo side hikes, this 20-mile overnight through Santa Elena Canyon offers a sampler of the Rio Grande ’s best scenery. It’s also pretty picante: At mile 15, you’ll run Rockslide Rapid, which can reach Class IV in flows approaching 1,200 cfs (scout river right; there’s no portage option). When your heart rate settles, scan the skies for nose-diving peregrine falcons and the riverbanks for coyotes and wild burros. As you travel, look for grinding holes and petroglyphs from former Native American encampments. Camp on sandbars.

Rio Grande Trip Planner

Permits Required ($12); obtain in person at visitor centers. Season Year-round, but flows peak in August Put-in Lajitas Take-out Santa Elena Canyon Outfitter bigbendrivertours.com

Chattooga River, Georgia

Length 58.7 miles Designated 1974

Fans of Deliverance will be disappointed to learn that the Chattooga River, where the film was set, is not nearly as dangerous as the 1972 classic suggests. Fans of world-class river trips will not. While the rain-fed Chattooga serves up rapids from Class I to Class V, the best intermediate-friendly, two-day trip combines Sections 2 and 3 for a 20 miler that gets sportier the farther you go. The crux is Bull Sluice, a Class IV+ rapid toward the end (beware flows above 2.5 feet on the Clayton gauge). You’ll be immersed in Southeast scenery as you pass through Sumter National Forest’s mountainous woodland of red and white oak, birch magnolia, and mountain laurel—the latter reaches its peak kaleidoscope bloom in June.

Chattooga River Trip Planner

Permit Self-register at put-in. Season Year-round, but best April to September Put-in GA 28 Take-out US 76 Outfitter chattoogawhitewatershop.com

Loxahatchee River, Florida

Length 7.6 miles Designated 1985

The 8.5-mile day trip down this waterway will have you J-stroking in Jurassic Park as it meanders through a primordial swamp filled with centuries-old cypress, ferns, orchids, palms, and mangroves. While you won’t see any velociraptors, you’ll find plenty of their contemporaries: Sunning alligators often line the shores and slip into the water as you paddle by. (Encounters between boaters and alligators are rare, but keep your feet and hands in the boat, and never feed or harass them.) Head downstream from Riverbend Park to Jonathan Dickinson State Park with a prearranged shuttle, or paddle out and back from either of the two (the current is gentle enough to paddle against). The serpentine upper stretch is beginner-friendly, but involves two short portages around dams (or slide over them if going west to east). In Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the river widens into a mangrove-gnarled estuary.

Loxahatchee River Trip Planner

Permit None Season Year-round Put-in/take-out Riverbend Park or Jonathan Dickinson State Park Outfitter canoeoutfittersofflorida.com

Noatak River, Alaska

Length 330 miles Designated 1980

No, it’s not easy to pull off an epic paddle trip in Alaska. Yes, it’s worth it. In June, way up in the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve , the 259,000 members of the Western Arctic caribou herd make their northward journey to their calving grounds, following the river for a portion of it. The best section of the gentle, 400-mile Noatak carves a 45-mile swath through the Brooks Range from Twelve Mile Slough to Lake Matcharak. Load crafts (inflatables are easiest to transport) into a floatplane in Bettles and fly over the granite spires of the Endicott Mountains to the slough near 8,510-foot Mt. Igikpak, where a 200-yard trail leads to the river. The waterway’s gentle gradient affords time to take in the surrounding Endicott and Schwatka Mountains and to scan the tundra benches for Alaska’s A-listers: wolves, Dall sheep, and grizzlies. Run it in June for your best shot at seeing the caribou migration, or in September for fall colors, ripe blueberries, and the aurora borealis.

Noatak River Trip Planner

Permit None Season June to September Put-in Twelve Mile Slough Take-out Lake Matcharak Outfitter arcticwild.com

Tuolumne River, California

Length 83 miles Designated 1984

For paddlers with solid whitewater chops, the Tuolumne offers thrills aplenty. The 18-mile canyon teems with Class III to V pool-drop rapids, interspersed with just enough moments of calm to let you catch your breath. Take two or three days to camp on sandy beaches, fish clear pools, and hike up side creeks. Put-in below Hetch Hetchy, and negotiate Class IV Rock Garden and Nemesis rapids in the first .5 mile. At mile 5.4, land your craft at Clavey River and grab your fishing rod to try for native coastal rainbow trout or take a dip. Just below lies Class V Clavey Falls, which requires punching through two giant hydraulic holes (or portage on river right). From here, the river calms down, with jumping rocks, swimming pools, and easier rapids before ramping back up to a Class IV per mile in the final 5 to the take-out.

Tuolumne River Trip Planner 

Permit Required ($15) May 1 to Oct. 1; Season May to September Put-in Meral’s Pool Take-out Ward’s Ferry Outfitter californiawhitewater.com

Buffalo River, Arkansas 

Length 15.8 miles Designated 1992

Arkansas’s paddling options are outnumbered only by its crawfish, and the Buffalo River is the state’s heart and soul. The undammed waterway sinks hundreds of feet below the rim of limestone bluffs as it flows through the Ozarks’ forested hills. Plan a mellow weekend in the 24 miles from Ponca to Pruitt, where calm waters encourage swim stops, beaches and gravel bars invite picnics, and the waterway passes beneath 550-foot-tall Big Bluff, the tallest cliff between the Rockies and Appalachians. Beach your boat for the side hike to Indian Rockhouse, a massive but shallow cave where Native Americans once sheltered. If you catch rain on your trip, add the 20-minute walk to Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls, which cascades 209 feet—the tallest waterfall in the Midwest.

Buffalo River Trip Planner 

Permit None Season April to September Put-in AR 74 Take-out AR 7 Outfitter buffaloriver.com

Master Paddling a Canoe

Learn these basic canoe techniques to move well on the river.

Forward stroke WHAT: Conserve energy so you can paddle all day. HOW: Keep your paddle close to the boat (about 6 inches away). Dip the full blade of the paddle straight in and draw it straight back. Use your back and core, rather than just your shoulders. Swivel your torso slightly toward the paddle to further reduce fatigue.

J-stroke WHAT: Add a twist of the paddle to keep your canoe tracking straight. HOW: Start like a forward stroke, but twist the paddle gradually to turn your blade away from the canoe at the end of the stroke.

Sweep stroke WHAT: Change directions at speed. HOW: Pull the paddle in a C-shaped motion (the paddle head is farthest from you in the middle of the stroke) to propel yourself forward while turning. Do it in reverse to slow down while turning. ~Spencer Cox

How to Pack a Canoe

Stow gear right to maximize space and stability.

1. Balance the load. Put lighter items in the front and back of the boat, reserving the middle for heavier gear (which boosts stability) and ensuring items are balanced left to right. Use small drybags: It’s easier to fit them snugly around each other to fill empty space.

2. Keep air in your drybags. Maintain a little dead space in your bags and lash them below the inside edges of your boat. That way, they’ll lend some extra buoyancy in a capsize and will be easier to salvage if they break loose.

3. Bring a bail bucket. Cut the bottom off of a gallon-size plastic jug (keep the cap) so you can hold the handle and use it as a scoop. When possible, do this between rapids to hit the next set without water weight sloshing around and hindering balance. ~Ryan Wichelns

How to Read a River

Follow these signs for safe passage.

Downstream V: This feature generally denotes a good path through rough water. Look for lines in the river that form a “V” shape with the wider part closer to you and narrowing downriver.

Upstream V: These are the exact opposite, with the point of the V shape closer to you. An upstream V usually indicates water flowing around a rock or other hazard. Steer clear.

Holes: Water flowing rapidly over a submerged rock results in a frothy area of rough water just behind the obstacle. The force can flip canoes and drag swimmers under. Paddle hard and keep your boat straight if one grabs you; if in the water, swim to the side. Last resort: Ball up and hope the current flushes you out.

Color bands: Areas of water with slightly different colors parallel to each other indicate variable flows. Straight rivers tend to flow fastest in the center, while curving rivers flow fastest along the outside of a bend. Look downstream, and avoid entering faster bands that could force you into obstacles. Follow these signs for safe passage. ~Spencer Cox

Buy the Right Paddling Gear First

A great trip starts with great gear. Find boats, paddles, PFDs, and other water gear for any trip in our collection of paddling gear reviews .

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• The Top 3 Class IV White Water Rafting Trips in the USA

Comparing the Lochsa, Tuolumne and Gauley Rivers

Idaho’s Lochsa , California’s Tuolumne, and West Virginia’s Gauley rivers are without a doubt the three best class IV rivers in the United States with commercial rafting trips that last between 1-3 three days. I’ve been lucky to have guided trips on all three of these rivers, as well as many others in the U.S. and around the world, giving me a good perspective as to what qualifies as a fantastic whitewater rafting trip. My hope is that this article will encourage rafting enthusiasts to get out and raft all three of these fantastic Class IV rivers.

The first of these that I ran was the Gauley in West Virginia. While I was in college I got a summer job as a rafting guide and during the summer of 1978, guided 101-day tours on the New River followed by 10 days on the Gauley over five weekends in September and October. This the primary Gauley season because a local reservoir is drawn down in preparation for winter rains.

At the end of the season, I returned home to California and spent much of the winter interviewing for whitewater guiding positions in the American West. In the spring of 1979, I trained on and then guided a few trips on the Tuolumne or “T” as it’s known, in California.  

The rest of the 1979 rafting season was spent guiding in Idaho, and that fall I started my own rafting company, ROW Adventures.  5 years later, in 1984, ROW was awarded one of 5 permits to operate trips on the newly-opened-to-outfitting Lochsa River.

All 3 of these rivers offer paddle-smacking fun! In river talk, we speak of the gradient, which is the number of feet a river drops over the course of a mile. As rivers go, these are all quite steep, dropping around 20-40 feet per mile.  Compare that to the 8’ per mile on the Colorado through the Grand Canyon, or 12’ per mile on the Snake River in Hells Canyon.  

In terms of rapid classification , all three of these rivers are considered Class IV+. As well, all three rivers offer trips ranging from a day, to 2 or 3-day camping trips and each offers spectacular scenery.  

Beyond these commonalities above, there are some differences as well. If you're considering whitewater rafting Idaho's thrilling Lochsa River, a quick comparison with West Virginia's Gauley River and California's Tuolumne River will help you prepare for your adventure.  

Comparing the Rapids, Flows and White Water Characteristics of the Three Rivers

White water rafters on the Lochsa River in Idaho

1. The Lochsa River In Idaho

Of the three, Idaho's Lochsa is the only one that is undammed and flowing free. Because of this, the season is from mid-April to mid-July as the snow melts in the high mountains of the river’s watershed. Snowpack and weather determine the flow; not a group of engineers operating gates on a dam! 

The Lochsa has the biggest-volume flows of the three rivers, and it’s not uncommon for the spring melt to send the river running over 20,000 cubic feet per second (CFS). That's more water than you'll find on the Colorado in the Grand Canyon most of the time! During flows of 15,000 to 20,000, the waves are enormous, and one guide likened it to running all the rapids of the Grand Canyon in a day! 

There are over 60 miles of free-flowing river on the Lochsa, making this trip the longest by far of the three rivers we are comparing. ROW Adventures offers trips from 1 to 3-days in length. 1-day trips go about 20 miles and are on either the Mile 138-121 section or the Mile 129 to 107 section. 2-day trips cover around 40 miles including the entire Class IV whitewater section from Mile 138 to 107 and our 3-day trips add another 20 miles upstream of this on Class II-III water that is a perfect warm-up for the more difficult rapids downstream.

High water on any river is always taken seriously, and that is true on the Lochsa as well. The greatest risk of high water is having swimmers if people fall out of a raft. The river is cold and moving fast, making rescue challenging.  People often think that rafting a river at high water makes for the most exciting ride. This is only true to a point. Some rapids may be more exciting at high water, but others are more fun at low to medium flows.  

What happens to rivers at high water is that the rocks that create the rapids are further below the surface. Thus, their ability to impact the river is minimized, and many rapids wash. However, rapids caused by constriction, (when the river’s banks squeeze the water together) may get larger. The lines that guides take through high-water rapids are less technical than at lower flows since the rocks are mostly covered. At high flows, the key to success is a team of rafters that will “dig in” with a hard-forward stroke to break through waves and holes while maintaining balance in the rodeo ride. An additional risk factor at high water on the Lochsa is that the water is (reminder: free-flowing snowmelt) cold!  Outfitters on cold-water rivers generally provide wetsuits and other cold-weather gear and this is true for ROW’s Lochsa River trips as well. 

In terms of rapids on the Lochsa, there are many! A few favorites are House Wave (a mere class III), the Grim Reaper, Termination, and Lochsa Falls. As flows decrease starting in mid-June and into July, the river warms and becomes more "pool and drop" in nature. The rapids also become much more "technical."  Rapids such as Ten Pin and Horsetail Falls become very challenging at these levels. To keep the ride more exciting, ROW switches to smaller rafts when flows are in the 1000-4000 CFS range.

White water rafts on the Gauley River, West Virginia

2. The Gauley River in West Virginia

 A challenging, technical river, most trips on the Gauley take place in the fall during planned releases to lower the water level in the Summersville Reservoir. As the flow in the fall season is strictly controlled dam-release, most trips take place at a flow rate of around 2,400-3000 CFS. This means you will have 'punchy' holes and waves, numerous maneuverings in complicated rock gardens, and distinct rapids separated by slower pools. Pillow rock is a favorite rapid. Many of the outfitters advertise the river as having "several class V rapids," but most guides place them at a IV+ (remember: the rating system rates how difficult a rapid is, not how much fun... also, difficulty on a given river can vary widely at different flows). 

The Gauley whitewater stretch is 24 miles long in total.  Outfitters on the river offer trips that divide this into an Upper and Lower section, as well as some that combine the two sections.

Tuolumne River at Glen Aulin at Yosemite National Park

3. The Tuolumne "T" River in California

 Also a technical river, with a distinct 'pool and drop' character that diminishes at higher flows, the “T” is dam controlled and trips generally run from April to October. Flows are higher in the spring and range from 5,000 – 10,000 CFS.  As summer goes on the river drops and trips could be as low as 400-500 CFS in August. Clavey Falls remains the T’s nemesis rapid.  

Trips on the Tuolumne float 18 miles in total from a put-in point below the Hetch-Hetchy dam to the slack water of the Don Pedro reservoir.

Overview of the Gauley River in West Virginia

A Comparison of Scenery, Geology, and Environment

All three rivers are spectacular in their own way, and again, we encourage you to raft them all to appreciate their beauty.  Of the three, the Lochsa is the only one with a road along its banks.  Fortunately, the road is dwarfed by the magnitude of the mountains that form the Lochsa canyon.

The Lochsa forms the southern boundary of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Area . Considered an inland temperate rainforest, the landscape is lush and mountainous. Steep slopes covered in fir and pine rise up to the sky, while much of the river’s edge is lined with majestic western red cedar. Although not always easy to spot, bear, deer, elk, and moose are common in the dense vegetation and magical cedar groves. The colorful Harlequin duck is sometimes spotted on the river. Being a completely free-flowing river (no dams) adds to the feeling of 'wilderness' on the Lochsa.

The geology is primarily granitic rock of the Idaho batholith, which means the boulders are smooth and hard.  However, because a road was built along the river in the 1950s and ’60s, rocks on the right side of the river can be sharp.

The Gauley River flows through a canyon of east coast hardwoods in the Appalachian Mountains. Conifer, birch and maple line this boulder-strewn river. As it is typically run in the fall, a bit of color can be expected. The combination of warm dam-released water and cool October air often creates a dense morning fog, adding an eerie feel to the river. Although development is minimal along the river itself, population density in the area, in general, reduces your chance of seeing larger wildlife.

The geology of the Gauley is limestone, which is softer than granite. Limestone rivers are considered riskier than those that have harder rocks, because the limestone, over hundreds and thousands of years, can become undercut by the river’s forces.

On the Tuolumne, you are in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains. Big, dry, granite domes and conifers are the norm. This is located in the dam-controlled Hetch-Hetchy Valley. The Hetch-Hetchy dam was built around 1913 to provide drinking water to the City of San Francisco and was very controversial.  In the end, environmentalists felt they had to save Yosemite Valley itself from a dam on the Merced, and in so doing were forced to acquiesce to the construction of a dam on the Tuolumne. Although wildlife is more sparse in this dry environment, golden eagles and many other bird species live in the canyon. Clear running water and striking scenery make "the T" a California favorite.  Like the Lochsa, the geology of the Tuolumne is primarily granitic.

Wild & Scenic Rivers

In 1968 the U.S. Congress passed the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations.  This means any river or river segment designated, can never be dammed. 

When the Act was passed in 1968, one of the first 8 rivers designated, was the Middle Fork of the Clearwater and its tributaries the Lochsa and Selway. Idaho was the only state to have 2 of the 8 rivers included (the other being the Salmon River.)

The Tuolumne is also a designated Wild & Scenic river, earning that designation in 1984.  The Gauley has been determined to be eligible for this federal designation but has yet to be included in the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act.  Clearly it is deserving, and we hope that will change.

A foggy morning on the Lochsa River in Idaho

More on Idaho’s Lochsa River

The Lochsa is the most exciting whitewater rafting adventure in Idaho with more rapids per mile than any other. The Lochsa has more rapids than the Selway, bigger rapids than the Middle Fork of the Salmon or the fabulously remote Bruneau,  and simply put, ranks as one of the world's great rafting trips.

People running the Lochsa are usually looking for a more extreme whitewater adrenaline experience that is a few notches up from ROW's other river rafting tours. We recommend previous whitewater experience before embarking on a Lochsa whitewater trip.

Many of our guests have traveled with us on other ROW one-day rafting trips such as the Clark Fork in Montana, Idaho's St. Joe river, or the Deschutes in central Oregon.  Some have taken their family rafting down the Salmon River Canyons. On any of these whitewater adventures they would likely hear the guides humbly recount stories around the campfire about the "Mighty Lochsa." Other guests have traveled the country (or the world) running more difficult rivers and have sought out the Lochsa on reputation alone. We invite you to join us on the Lochsa where you are sure to create your own epic whitewater story!

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Outdoor Families Magazine

Where Families and Nature Unite

The 12 Best Family-Friendly Whitewater River Rafting Trips in the U.S.

May 21, 2020 by Jennifer Fontaine Leave a Comment

By Cari Morgan – Combine epic scenery, wildlife sightings, splashy rapids, and stories around the campfire with several days of distraction-free time together, and guided multi-day river rafting trips offer families an idyllic outdoor adventure. The best part? You don’t have to plan all the meals, slog all the gear and research an itinerary and activities that will keep everyone entertained. 

“For parents, it’s amazingly relaxing,” shared a mom from Rutland, Vermont who took her family on a Green River rafting trip through the Gates of Lodore in Utah. “Why would anyone go to Disney World?” 

If you’re ready to trade in theme park thrills for whitewater thrills, these are some of the best family-friendly whitewater river rafting trips out there according to OARS, an outfitter that’s been guiding families on rivers of the West for more than 50 years:

12 Best River Rafting Trips for Families

1. river rafting trip on main salmon “river of no return,” idaho.

This 6-day river rafting adventure through Idaho’s pristine wilderness boasts fun, low-stress whitewater, beautiful mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and big, sandy beaches perfect for camping and nightly river games. The Main Salmon River also offers ideal conditions for a variety of boats and families will appreciate the opportunity to be as relaxed or adventurous as they like on everything from dories and oar rafts to inflatable kayaks and stand up paddleboards, which are a fun choice for older kids who might want to try paddling on their own. Best for: Ages 7 and up (12 during high water*)

2. River Rafting Trip on Green River through Desolation Canyon, Utah

There are few places as wild and untouched as Utah’s Desolation Canyon , and this 5-day rafting trip down a remote stretch of the Green River begins with a scenic flight from Moab to the put-in. If that’s not exciting enough, 50+ fun, Class II-III rapids, and majestic red rock formations that tower as high as Grand Canyon in places, await paddlers downstream. Families will also dig the side hikes and stops along the way that lead to rock art and ruins left behind by the Fremont Indians, abandoned homesteads and even outlaw hideouts. Best for: Ages 7 and up

3. River Rafting Trip in Grand Canyon: Whitmore Wash to Lake Mead, Arizona

This short and fun 5-day Grand Canyon rafting trip is ideal for families who want to explore below the rim and see everything the canyon has to offer—incredible beaches, magical side canyons and spring-fed streams. The adventure begins with a scenic flight from Las Vegas and an overnight stay at a working cattle ranch before being whisked by a helicopter to the Colorado River for 93 miles of whitewater river rafting, camping under the stars and an active exploration of the Lower Grand Canyon. “Seeing the Canyon this way was by far the best,” according to a mom from Tennessee. “The rapids were not super intense, and it is a good intro to whitewater rafting.” Best for: Ages 7 and up

4. River Rafting Trip through the Gorges of the Lower Salmon, Idaho

This is the ultimate beach vacation in an unexpected location–deep in the wilderness of northwest Idaho. A Lower Salmon River rafting trip offers exhilarating Class III rapids through four distinct gorges, and camp life that can’t be beat. Huge sandy beaches in the middle of nowhere offer up the ideal playground for families to swim, start a game of beach volleyball, or once the sun goes down, cozy up together for epic stargazing.

On the water, it’s all about choosing your own adventure. Paddlers can try out paddle rafts, dories, inflatable kayaks and stand up paddleboards on this 4- or 5-day adventure. “My 70-year-old dad is an avid kayaker and my sons, ages 6 and 7, are just starting out on the water and there was plenty for us all to do,” shared a multi-generational traveler from Columbus, Ohio. “The food was delicious and plentiful, accommodations were amazing, and the scenery and wildlife were a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Best for: Ages 7 and up (12 during high water*)

5. River Rafting Trip on San Juan River, Utah

Even families with the youngest paddlers can float through a beautiful red rock labyrinth on this fun and easy river rafting trip in southeastern Utah. Bordering Bears Ears National Monument, the San Juan River offers multiple trip options ranging between 4 and 6 days. Families can venture out on incredible hikes into hidden side canyons, explore fascinating archaeological sites like Moki Stairs that were carved into the cliffs 800 years ago and camp under the stars in one of the darkest regions of the West. Best for: Ages 4 and up (7 during high water*)

6. River Rafting Trip on Yampa River, Colorado/Utah

The Yampa River , situated on the border of Colorado and northeastern Utah, flows right into the heart of Dinosaur National Monument and offers rafters unprecedented access to this under the radar national park gem. Reliant on spring run-off from the Rockies, the Yampa typically comes to life for a short window each season between May and July with exciting Class III-IV whitewater.

Families with older kids can up the adventure level earlier in the season, but this stunningly scenic trip through a geologic and human time capsule typically mellows out by mid-June providing an all-around family-friendly experience with plenty of whitewater excitement, spectacular side hikes and camping in a Dark Sky Park. Best for: Ages 7 and up (12 during high water*)

7. River Rafting Trip on Rogue River, Oregon

With its fun Class III whitewater, beautiful pine-forested canyon scenery, abundant wildlife and picturesque riverside camps, the Rogue River in southern Oregon is the quintessential river experience. Families will love the inflatable kayak fun, hours of beach games, adventurous side hikes and the excitement of iconic rapids like Grave Creek, Rainie Falls and Blossom Bar.

“Watching a 7-year-old fearlessly jump from the rocks, an 11- and 14-year-old paddling the rapids and jumping from rocks, trekking up creeks, trying unfamiliar food, and playing with new friends was so satisfying,” shared another multi-generational traveler from Chatanooga, Tennessee who took her grandchildren, son and daughter-in-law river rafting on the Rogue. “This trip was summed up for me when my adult son remarked that it just might be the best vacation ever.” Best for: Ages 7 and up

8. River Rafting Trip on Green River through the Gates of Lodore, Utah

A Green River Rafting trip through the Gates of Lodore promises picturesque canyon scenery (think towering canyon walls layered in scarlet red, deep oranges and dotted with lush greens), fun Class III whitewater, and incredible hiking. On this 3- to 5-day exploration of Dinosaur National Monument you’ll have the chance to inflatable kayak through fun, splashy wave trains, hike up rippling creeks to side canyon waterfalls and hunt for petroglyphs in the canyon’s open-air archive of billion-year-old geology, dinosaur fossils and ancient Puebloan ruins. Best for: Ages: Ages 7 and up (12 during high water*)

9. River Rafting Trip on Snake River through Hells Canyon, Idaho

Flowing through Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, the Snake River has rugged scenery, a rich human history, incredible trout fishing and some of the most family-friendly big-wave rapids in the West. On this 3- to 5-day adventure you’ll spend several hours each day splashing through whitewater, hiking and exploring early Native American sites and homesteads dotted throughout the canyon, before unwinding in camp. Long summer days and ideal warm water conditions, particularly in July and August, offer families ample time for swimming, casting a line, relaxing or enjoying beach games together. Best for: Ages 7 and up (12 during high water)

10. River Rafting Trip on Lower Klamath River, California

For parents who are eager to get their kids on a river rafting trip, there may be no better experience than the Lower Klamath River in northwestern California. This scenic, forested river trip offers fun, bouncy Class II rapids that are a perfect way to get little ones excited about whitewater. Add warm water ideal for swimming, inflatable kayaking, rock jumping and plenty of beach time, and the whole family will love this adventure. “This is the perfect entry-level river trip, guaranteed to cure anyone suffering from nature deficit disorder or simply looking for some relaxation and family bonding time,” summed up one family from Mariposa, California. Best for: Ages 4 and up

11. River Rafting Trip in Flaming Gorge, Utah

Another river rafting trip that’s fit for the littlest adventurers is Utah’s ultra-scenic Flaming Gorge . Imagine red rock country—vibrant red-hued walls dotted with lush greens—and this is it. A 3-day trip down this stretch of the Green River offers no-stress whitewater, interspersed with calm sections that inspire refreshing swims, wildlife viewing, and fishing. Not to mention, the river’s crystal-clear waters are teeming with trout, which has earned it the reputation as one of the finest trout fishing streams in the country. Best for: Ages 4 and up

12. River Rafting Trip on South Fork of the American River, California

On California’s popular South Fork of the American River , which offers 21 miles of exciting, Class III whitewater, families have options. For a day trip you can run the upper Chili Bar stretch which has approximately nine named rapids and plenty of time in between for swimming. Or, there’s the lower Gorge run where you can warm up on Class II whitewater before the river narrows a bit and paddler’s challenge some of the South Fork’s more rowdy rapids like Satan’s Cesspool and Hospital Bar.

For the ultimate family adventure though, opt to combine both stretches with a night of riverside camping. “I selected the South Fork of the American river for the first whitewater river rafting trip for my 8 and 12-year-old kids… I wanted something that wasn’t tame (and this river definitely wasn’t), yet something that wouldn’t be over their skill level,” shared a dad from Santa Cruz, CA. “My kids had permanent grins for weeks afterward and retold their adventure to everyone they knew.” Best for: Ages 8 and up (12 during high water”)

*The high-water window during peak snowmelt varies from river to river, but typically occurs late-May to mid-June on rivers of the West.

Disclaimer: It is the policy of Outdoor Families Magazine to disclose a financial partnership with a business or organization.  O.A.R.S. provided financial sponsorship to Outdoor Families Magazine in exchange for content.

—–

Cari Morgan is the Communications Manager for OARS. An avid outdoor lover, she spends her free time hiking, paddling and camping around California’s Sierra Nevada region with her husband and two wild boys. 

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11 Spring Rafting Trips in the West You Don’t Want to Miss

The air might be brisk, the water will definitely be icy, and there’s a chance you could even get snowed on, but there’s nothing quite like chasing those elusive early-season flows. We’re talking about the best spring rafting trips in the West, the coveted runs that offer optimal rafting conditions for only a short period of time each season, if at all. So catch them if you can.

The Best Spring Rafting Destinations in the Western U.S.

1) Yampa River

The  Yampa River  is the last free-flowing tributary of the entire Colorado River system. All of the other rivers in the region are dammed, but environmental activists blocked a proposed dam at Echo Park in the 1950s. What they saved is a 250-mile long river that springs to life for three months a year—May through July—with fresh, surging run-off from the melting snows and glaciers of the Colorado Rockies. Boaters who are able to snag a coveted Yampa River permit get to explore some of the most remarkable sandstone canyons in the country, paddle through Class III-IV whitewater, camp on sandy beaches and enjoy incredible side hikes in the heart of Dinosaur National Monument. Some would argue this highly-sought-after spring rafting trip rivals the Grand Canyon.

2) Animas River

In the spring and early summer, boaters from all over the world flock to the Upper Animas in Southwestern Colorado which offers one of the best Class IV-V runs in the state. The 25-mile stretch of non-stop whitewater from Silverton to Tacoma Station can be done as one epic full-day trip or a slightly-less-crazy overnighter. Considered a marathon trip, be ready for rollercoaster waves, huge holes and three big drops that warrant Class V status—Garfield Slide (a.k.a. Ten Mile), No Name Falls, and Broken Bridge. When you’re not paddling for your life, look up and take in the spectacular mountain scenery and nearby peaks in the heart of the San Juan National Forest.

3) Selway River

The solitude of the Selway River , which cuts through the heart of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, is unmatched by any multi-day whitewater river in the Lower 48. The Forest Service, which runs a lottery for permits , only allows one launch per day (alternating commercial and private trips) from May 15 to July 31. As one of the first eight rivers designated under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the Selway is undammed meaning spring flows are high, cold and rowdy with the most dependable flows typically in June. And with an average drop of 28 feet per mile, abundant rocks and long stretches of unbroken whitewater, the Selway is considered one of the most challenging whitewater rivers in the U.S.  For those with the technical skills to run this gem, expect crystal clear water, rising cutthroat, sandy beaches and amazing cedar-lined hiking trails.

4) Lochsa River

The free-flowing Lochsa River , which tumbles down from its headwaters in the Bitterroot Mountains, is an Idaho whitewater classic. Boatable only in the spring during high water, typically early May through July in exceptional snow years, this technical river with more than 40 rapids in 20 miles boasts continuous whitewater and some of Idaho’s best rapids . Rapid names like “Grim Reaper” and “Terminator” say it all. This is a trip for the adrenaline-addicted who don’t mind having an audience since much of the river runs adjacent to scenic Highway 12 and the pullouts provide prime viewing for spectators.  Expect a crowd waiting for you at the boat-flipping Class IV+ Lochsa Falls and wish for the best. The scenery doesn’t disappoint either.

5) Owyhee River

For those who hit the narrow window, typically sometime in April or May, when the  Owyhee River actually flows, it’s unforgettable. One thousand-foot basalt cliffs cascade down to desolate, soft beaches. Hot springs bubble up along the banks. You float past abandoned ranches, ancient petroglyphs, and the whitewater should not be underestimated. There are over 200 miles of boatable water, with the Lower Owyhee serving up a popular combination of whitewater, solitude, and incredible desert scenery. The Middle Owyhee features Class IV rapids and the infamous Class V Widowmaker, and therefore is for expert river runners only. No matter which section you float, the Owyhee River is a rarely-visited but mesmerizing river in its bizarre beauty.

6) Illinois River

The  Illinois River is the Holy Grail of Oregon whitewater and spring rafting trips. Some who seek it never find it. Others find it and are scared senseless. Still, those few fortunate boaters who run the Illinois each year bring back tales of glory. It’s a tributary of the Rogue River in the Siskiyou Mountains of Southern Oregon that is run much less often than talked about. Since the Siskiyou receive little snow, the river only runs when there’s enough rain, most often March through mid-May though boatable flows can occur in the winter months. Too much rain, however, and the Class IV rapids stack up, making it a dangerous endeavor. What’s more is this 32-mile stretch of whitewater, which includes the infamous Class V Green Wall rapid, is entirely within the wilderness so any mistakes are magnified by the remote nature of the run. Those with the skill and guts, however, are rewarded by crystal-clear water, stunning greenery, challenging rapids, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from running the wildest whitewater in the state.

7) North Fork American

One of the best spring rafting trips in California, the free-flowing  North Fork American River  typically runs March through mid-June. Flowing untamed through a beautiful forested gorge with 2,000-foot cliffs, the emerald green waters of this Wild & Scenic River deliver rapid after Class IV rapid of nearly non-stop, white-knuckle whitewater, followed by a stretch of more gentle Class II-III rapids. With intricate boulder gardens, rushing falls and staircase drops, this 10-mile stretch of California whitewater rafting promises intense paddling and plenty of adrenaline-inducing thrills for adventurous paddlers looking for a good challenge.

8) Kaweah River

Flowing from the peaks of Sequoia National Park, the  Kaweah River  is one of the steepest river drainages in the country, and as a result, has some of the best whitewater rafting in California . But you have to time it right. Since the Kaweah is free-flowing before it reaches Terminus Reservoir, you have to catch this thrilling spring rafting trip during the peak snowmelt window which is typically April through June. While expert paddlers can challenge the upper 6-mile stretch just outside of the park boundaries, most people run the lower section with offers approximately 10 miles of technical Class IV+ whitewater filled with powerful hydraulics, narrow chutes, river-wide ledges and plenty of boulder-filled obstacles.

9) Salt River

It’s not every year that paddlers get to catch this exceptional desert river in eastern Arizona, which relies on snowmelt from the White Mountains. When water conditions are ideal, however, the approximately 51-mile, multi-day trip through the Salt River Canyon , which is sometimes referred to as Arizona’s other Grand Canyon because of its sheer red and brown cliffs and impressive geology, is worth the trip. As you paddle through the impressive 2,000-foot-deep canyon walls speckled with saguaro cacti you’ll challenge Class III-IV whitewater, including technical rapids like Blackrock, Maze and Corkscrew, which is one of the biggest rapids and can often catch boaters off guard. This is a solid technical run that’s not for newbies.

10) Rio Grande River

The Rio Grande River has no shortage of world-class whitewater, but it’s the remote and rugged inner gorge—a 16-mile Class IV section of river known as the Taos Box —that attracts paddlers far and wide. Raftable flows can start as early as March and run through June, or may not run at all in years with a below average snowpack. But for the lucky folks who time it right and find themselves at the bottom of this remote chasm with 800-foot basalt walls towering above them, a thrilling and challenging run awaits. With more than 60 rapids, the “Box” is chock full of technical boulder gardens and long stretches of non-stop whitewater, especially in the last four miles where you’ll encounter notorious rapids like Powerline Falls, Rock Garden, Boat Reamer, Screaming Left-hand Turn and Enema. Catch it if you can.

11) San Juan River

Since not all spring rafting trips are about the whitewater, we’d be remiss to not mention the San Juan River,  a classic desert rafting trip that’s at its best in the spring. And what this family-friendly trip may lack in thrills, it makes up for with fascinating cultural history and surreal beauty, hundreds of years in the making. This Class II, multi-day float trip winds through 83 miles of stunning desert landscape and one of the most complex canyons in the Colorado Plateau known as the Goosenecks—a spectacular labyrinth of towering red rock walls. Rapids like Ross, Government and Slickhorn add just enough excitement to the adventure,  side hikes  reveal incredible stone kivas and cliff dwellings adorned with petroglyphs, and the starry night skies are like nowhere else.

Which spring rafting trips do you chase each season? Chime in below.

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OARS contributor Tim Gibbins added to this post. Photos: Yampa River – Colleen Miniuk; San Juan River – Pat H.; Selway River – U.S. Forest Service (Flickr); Owyhee River – Justin Bailie; North Fork American River – James Rodger; Salt River – Mild to Wild Rafting, Rio Grande River – Bob Wick, BLM (Flickr)

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Best Overnight Rafting Trips in the US

Written by Ben Sack , 08.12.2019

We’ve put together a list of our five favorite overnight rafting trips found within the continental United States. Some are over one week while others are just one night and two days away from civilization. Each of these trips allows you to experience some of the greatest natural parks found in the US while having tasty food prepared by fun and caring raft guides along the way.

1. Salmon River, Idaho

Join Holiday River Expeditions   for a   5 to 6 day adventure along the Salmon River. This river is the longest undammed river in the lower 48 states that makes its way through one of the largest wilderness reserves in the US. You’ll experience pristine alpine forests and quiet desert canyons as you paddle through one ecosystem after another.

Their Middle Fork trip is best for groups where everyone is 12 years or older and has an adventurous spirit, or opt for their Main Salmon trip where the rapids are a bit calmer and the excitement less extreme. They customize the trip based on your needs, so tell them ahead of time if you’re vegan or gluten-free so they can prep your meals accordingly.

2. Rogue River, Oregon

Oregon is a lush, green, gorgeous state full of Northwest adventures. Northwest Rafting offers 4  day trips down the Rogue River that are full of class III rapids and gentle stretches, offering an idyllic combination of fun and relaxation. You start near the headwaters of the Rogue river in the Cascades and then travel through the Rogue River National Forest as you make your way towards the coast. 

Campers get to enjoy hiking, rafting, waterfalls, and beach time, making this a well-rounded rafting adventure. They even offer adult-only trips that include alcohol and gourmet food options.

3. Chattooga River, South Carolina & Georgia

One of the best rivers in the Southeastern United States is the Chattooga River which snakes its way through North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. This river is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking for people from the outdoor adventure city of Asheville, North Carolina. It’s known for its beauty and rugged wilderness, great for overnight adventures. 

Wildwater offers an overnight rafting trip that’s jam-packed with challenging rapids. You’re guaranteed to get wet and tired as you paddle from one rapid to the next. At night, you can dine on campfire-grilled steaks as you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature before you get up and enjoy one more day of thrilling white water.

4. Colorado River, Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the top rafting destinations in the world. Exploring the Grand Canyon by raft allows you to experience its unique canyon formations, waterfalls, and more. With very little light pollution, your nights are often be met by a canopy of twinkling starlight. 

Outdoors Unlimited leads 5 to 15 day rafting trips where you can explore hidden waterfalls, bask in the sunlight, and enjoy the rush of rapids as you carve through canyons of all shapes and sizes. Allow yourself to become immersed in the joy, beauty, and thrill that this unique region of the US offers on a multi-day rafting trip where the planning is done for you.

5. Arkansas River, Colorado

Colorado is famous for its beautiful wilderness and exciting outdoor adventures. Where the Arkansas River rushes through the Royal Gorge is an adventurer’s dream, with thrilling class IV-V rapids and amazing views. On a 24-hour rafting trip with Echo Canyon , you can either do ½ day rafting gentler rapids as a warm up and your second ½ day rafting the adrenaline-pumping section, or opt for a double-dose of adrenaline. 

At night, enjoy a private river landing camp spot with a hot, tasty meal prepared by your raft guide. Embrace total relaxation while you swing on hammocks as you listen to the river rushing by and campfire crackling. And if you have time to make this a long weekend, explore the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park after, where there are more adventures and wilderness experiences to be had.

Choosing the Best Overnight Whitewater Trip for You

There are a few factors you want to consider when choosing your overnight rafting trip.

What level of adventure are you looking for?

How long do you want to travel?

There are short, 24-hour overnight rafting excursions and ones that last for weeks. Decide how much time and money you want to spend to find the best trip for you.

Where do you want to go?

From there, find an outfitter with great reviews on TripAdvisor and allow them to plan your trip for you! Venturing out on an organized group rafting trip is a fun way to explore without having to plan the whole trip yourself. You are left to soak in nature and enjoy the physical challenge of multi-day rafting.

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About the Author

Ben Sack is the General Manager of Echo Canyon River Expeditions, Colorado's largest white water rafting outfitter. He's also a raft guide, a photographer, and he loves exploring Colorado and beyond with his wife and two boys. View Ben's Full Bio »

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Best Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Multi-day trips are a great way to see locations and special destinations that you could not otherwise see if you were not on the river. Multi-day trips usually book in advance and have limited space, so check these trips out and reserve your spot.

Multi-Day rafting trips can range anywhere from 2 – 15 days long, camping on the river, spanning long distances and remote destinations.

Multi-day rafting trips use paddle boats, oar boats and or motorized boats (and any combination of these) depending on the destination and length of the trip. Usually these trips are all-inclusive with the trip, gear, food, camping and limited transportation all part of the packaged price.

Alaska and Canada Massive Landscapes, Epic Journeys

Rocky Mountains Middle Fork, Arkansas River & More

Desert Southwest Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon & More

Oregon's Rogue River Lodge to Lodge 4 Day

Chile or Costa Rica Change of Hemisphere

Multi-Day Rafting Destinations

Grand canyon, rocky mountains, glacier national park, alaska & canada, british columbia, northwest territories, west virginia, latin america.

9 of the best road trips in the USA

US road trips remain ever-present on travel bucket lists the world over.

A true pillar of American folklore, their routes are steeped in history and paint a picture of the USA through the ages, from the Gold Rush to the Cold War.

In the modern day, these routes remain on the travel lists of Americans and tourists alike, all longing to head out on the open road to discover vibrant cities, desert plains, attractive coastlines and enormous mountain ranges.

In a nation that stretches over 3,000 miles from east to west, there are hundreds of routes to take you across the country, whether you want to follow the coast north from California or take a more remote route in Alaska.

Lesser known odysseys such as Route 101 or the Lincoln Highway quickly capture the imagination, while famed highways such as Route 66 dominate the dreams of would-be road trippers. To help you decide which route suits you, we’ve rounded up a list of the best trips across the country.

Chicago to Santa Monica

The USA’s most famous route has been immortalised via a combination of pop culture and nostalgia, despite no longer officially being classified as highway. Today, it remains the holy grail of US road trips.

Stretching for around 2,500 miles from Chicago to the beachfront of Santa Monica (just next to Los Angeles), it provides a taste of times gone by in the US, from kitsch gas stations to the Wild West-like emptiness of the Arizona and New Mexico desert.

This retro feeling is lost at either end of the ‘Mother Road’, especially when arriving into LA, but the marked contrast means that those travelling the route get to experience a quintessential slice of the States, including beautiful desert landscapes, the vintage Americana of Texas and two of the country’s foremost modern cities.

Read more on North America travel :

• The best time to visit Hawaii for a holiday – and how to avoid the rain
• Affordable New York: How to do the notoriously expensive city on a budget
• Canada travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

The Great River Road

Minnesota to louisiana.

This winding route follows the equally serpentine Mississippi River for a total of over 2,300 miles through 10 states. It starts (or ends) in Louisiana, near the Gulf of Mexico, before coursing through Mississippi, Tennessee and ending up in Minnesota, near the Canadian border.

At its start, the route takes travellers across two of of the US’s most famous cities. It begins in New Orleans , the centre of Cajun and Creole culture, and shortly after passes through the capital of blues, soul and rock’n’roll: Memphis , Tennessee.

The rest of the route is renowned for showcasing an abundance of different natural landscapes that only a country as geographically diverse as the US could provide. The wetlands and bayous of Mississipi and Louisiana, including the Atchafalaya Basin, will be the most alien environment to many visitors, with a distinctly eerie, almost rainforest-like feel.

Following along the Mississippi, drivers will see flat plains, mountains and extensive woodland as the route crosses Arkansas, Kentucky, Iowa and Wisconsin, before finishing in Minnesota, “the Land of 10,000 Lakes”.

Lincoln Highway

New york to san francisco.

Though no longer in existence as a single route, a little research will help you take on a section – or all – of the 3,389-mile long transcontinental route that was originally conceived in the 1910s. The route started in New York City and extended all the way to Lincoln Park in San Francisco , taking in 14 states including Ohio, Illinois, Nebraska, Utah and Nevada. Today, much of the road is now Route 30, from Pennsylvania to Wyoming – avoid the freeways of the I-80 for a trip with less motorway and more character.

Today, driving the route is easier in some states than others due to different standards in maintaining the route’s heritage, but this highway will take you across roughly 700 cities and towns, from small-time American settlements to big-hitters like Chicago and Pittsburgh. Along the way, you can learn about the history of both the highway and early America, visit 19th-century mining towns and see some delightful nature, including parts of Lake Tahoe and the Utah desert.

Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington

Route 101 traces the US’s Pacific Coast from California up into Washington, offering some of the best coastal views in the country. Though it technically starts in Los Angeles , you can begin the route from near the Mexican border, close to San Diego, all the way up to the border with Canada.

The route is split into different sections of road in each state. The first section is California State Route 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, which offers the first uninterrupted sightings of the turquoise waters of the Pacific. It carries on through San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge, passing through the famous wine regions of the Napa Valley and Sonoma County, before picking up the Oregon 101.

Oregon’s coast is home to raw natural beauty, captured in the rugged, unspoilt coastline of areas like Cannon Beach and the valleys of the Columbia River. You continue along the river as you enter Washington, eventually circling the Olympic Peninsula and its mountains before finishing near Olympia’s State Capitol Building.

Richardson Highway

Valdez to fairbanks.

Shorter than many US trips, but certainly no less scenic, the Richardson Highway extends for “just” 364 miles between the cities of Valdez and Fairbank. Alaska offers some of the wildest natural landscapes in America, perhaps best compared to parts of Iceland when viewing its large glaciers, towering peaks, dramatic gorges, steep waterfalls and the Valdez glacier lake.

Various locations offer a host of activities such as white water rafting, hiking, fishing and even ice climbing (as well as views of the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline). Both Valdez and Fairbanks have a range of things to keep you busy too, from lake cruises and whale watching to skiing and Northern Lights spotting.

The Atlantic Coast

New york to florida keys.

Another road trip that gets to roughly 2,000 miles but can easily be split up into manageable sections, a trip down the Atlantic Coast is a worthy alternative to its Pacific counterpart. There is no defined route, with some beginning as far north as Bar Harbor in Maine, and others starting in NYC . If you do start in Maine, you’ll have the option to explore Boston, Rhode Island and the Hamptons, as well as the Big Apple.

Continuing south towards Miami , you can travel through Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Atlantic City, the East’s answer to Las Vegas. If you stick to the coast rather than heading to the capital, you’ll go through Delaware before crossing a tiny section of the Atlantic over into Virginia Beach.

Carrying on through North and South Carolina, you’ll eventually reach Florida , first via Jacksonville and then Orlando if you fancy a small detour. From Miami you’re on the home stretch, but not before you cross arguably the highlight of the entire trip – the 113-mile Overseas Highway, which extends over the Atlantic between Miami and Key West, the final stop.

Road to Hana

Hana to kahului.

Hawaii may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of road trips, with the Polynesian-influenced State home to a fascinating local culture, laid-back towns and coastline so picturesque it’s scarcely believable. But one small route stands out on Maui that’s as beautiful as those famed beaches – the Hana Highway, which links the towns of Hana and Kahului.

Running for just 64 miles, this coastal route usually takes around three hours to drive due to speed limitations and around 600 bends, winding through dense jungle and passing over imposing cliffs while tantalisingly close to the emerald waters of the Pacific.

Western Highlights

San francisco to las vegas.

This trip takes in some of the US’s most famous landmarks and cities, passing through California , Nevada and Arizona.

Begin in charming San Francisco, where innovation, forward-thinking and counterculture have combined to form a bohemian city backed by national landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. The first stop on your route will be Yosemite National Park, a land of surreal landscapes including giant sequoias, the 914-metre vertical rock face of El Capitan and North America’s tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls.

Continue on a slightly longer drive southeast towards Los Angeles, where you’ll need a few days to take in the sights of Hollywood, Santa Monica, Malibu and the rest, before continuing on to the Grand Canyon via the I-10 or I-40 freeways.

Red rock hills and desert plains will quickly come into sight before you reach what is undeniably one of America’s most famous, and impressive, natural sites. Explore, hike and marvel at the vast sandstone cliffs and winding waterways, before spending the night in a rustic mountain cabin. This grandiose trip finishes in equally extravagant Las Vegas , the US’s undisputed home of hedonism.

Read our reviews of the best USA hotels

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