Camping and White Water Rafting

Rafting Trip - 21 miles of class III,III+ and IV rapids. Recommended for athletic users only. Other rafting trips involve shorter trips as well. There are half day trips, full day trips and 2 days trips available.

Description - The American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

The American Rafting River Whitewater experience consists of the South Fork American River, the Middle Fork American River, the North Fork American River. There are rafting trips on each of these rivers and customers can experience rafting whitewater river trips on all of them.

The South Fork American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

Moving first among big foothills and later through a steep granite canyon, the South Fork struts out quickly, surging powerfully, then yawns coyly before suddenly rushing headlong through the fabled American River Gorge.

The North Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and carves a deep, sheer gorge, which plunges in a deep crevasse down the western slope of the Sierra.

The Middle Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains just east of Sacramento. A great run for hardy, adventurous first timers and experienced rafters alike.

River Rating – The 3-mile, Class II “Coloma to Lotus” stretch is an ideal introduction to whitewater. Intermediate boaters enjoy the increased challenge of the Class III “Chili Bar” and “Gorge” runs, and the expert kayakers spend hours perfecting their rodeo moves in the world-famous Chili Bar Hole and other play spots.

Number of Rapids – Numerous class III, III+ and class IV white water rapids. The flow rates on the river can vary widely between spring , summer and fall. Also storms and rainy weather can change the flows quickly. Check with your outfitter for current conditions.

Minimum Age – 8 years is the minimum age for going on south fork rafting trips.

Departure Dates - California rafting starts early in mid-March and usually runs through the end of September and occasionally into October. Other times, after a major storm, whitewater rafting is available due to increased flows of the rivers in the late fall and winter months. Rafting schedules are at its peak during the summer months in California.

Boat Type - Rafts as well as Kayaks. Canoes are not recommended

What to Bring -In colder weather or spring time, we advise wetsuit gear to keep you warm on the river. Check for local conditions and time of year with your outfitter.

If you are on an overnight camping trip with us, review the lists for what to bring on a rafting trip from your outfitter. Each one will have slightly different requirements.

In the summer, basics are needed. Swim wear, shorts, tennis shoes and lots of sunblock!

Outfitters - There are multiple outfitters for all 3 sections of the American River. Search for the section you are interested in or go to the American North Fork review or the American Middle Fork review. These reviews will be posted within two weeks of this post about the American South Fork River.

Rafting Trip -Full Day 10am – 4/5pm; 3,4,5 Day Trips (52 mile Wilderness Bridge to Bridge Trip); Overnight trips ; Two Day 10am – 4/5pm the next day; Half Day 10am – 1/2pm; and Custom and Charter Trips

Description -This Salt River watershed contains approximately 32,100 very rugged acres and was established in 1984. The Salt River and its spectacular canyon bisect the wilderness for its entire length. Elevations range from 2,200 feet at the canyon’s lower end to 4,200 feet on White Ledge Mountain. This area can be visited practically any time; however, there are no maintained trails within the entire wilderness. Travel is basically done by raft or kayak during the short and dangerous river-running season.

Mandatory Visitor Permits for river-running are required between March 1 and May 15.

River Rating - The Upper Salt River of Arizona rapids are rated class III.

Number of Rapids - number of rapids vary with the trip taken depending on half day, full day and multi day trips.

Minimum Age - Depending on the flow rate some outfitters will allow children as young as 7 years of age.

Departure Dates – Mandatory Visitor Permits for river-running are required between March 1 and May 15.

Boat Type – White water rafts suitable for one to 12 people.

What to Bring - Temperatures vary quite a bit in the spring time in Arizona, requiring different gear for different days, even hours.Check with your outfitter to confirm what you need to bring. Bring a swimsuit to wear under a wetsuit. Cotton t-shirts, sweatshirts and denim keep you cold once wet and does not belong on the river. Tops and bottoms made of synthetics such as poly-pro, capilene, fleece, silk or wool are designed to keep you warm when wet.Bring or rent wet suit booties, Extra clothing, Sunscreen, Water, Restraining Strap for Glasses, and Waterproof Cameras as needed!

Gear required for day trips is much different from what is required on camping trips. Some have car access while others do not. Your outfitter will provide details based on specific trips that you sign up for.

Outfitters - There are numerous outfitters providing white water rafting trips on the Upper Salt River.

Rafting Trip – Gila River rafting in New Mexico – 40 miles

Description -

The Gila River begins near Silver City, New Mexico, in the Gila Wilderness area, and travels west into Arizona, ending near the southeast town of Clifton.

Put in at Grapevine Campground and take out at Mogollon Creek. Rafters can also put in at USFS Road 809 and take out at Redrock to cover 18 miles. A third location calls for put in at Redrock with a take out at Highway 92 bridge for a trip of 19 miles. Anyone floating down the river are cautioned to watch for trees that may have  fallen into the river. Boats and rafts can get caught in the trees, and there is a chance you could capsize.

The trip down the river starts at about 7000’ in elevation, where you’ll be surrounded by majestic Evergreen, Juniper, and Ponderosa trees. Be sure to have your camera ready! As you descend to about 5500’ by the end of the run, you’ll be enjoying totally different flora, namely Alder, Cottonwood, and Sycamore trees.

While running the Gila River, there are many wonderful places you can explore along its banks and in side canyons. Kayakers may even be treated to views of ancient petroglyphs, most likely carved by Native American tribes that were indigenous to this part of the American southwest thousands of years ago, including the Comanche and Apache Nations.

Kayaking on Gila River waters also means a look at some of the area’s most incredible scenery. Birdwatching couldn’t be better, with an amazing number of species inhabiting the canyons. You’ll also find a vast array of wildlife here, including rattlesnakes, so be cautious as to where you wander and be sure to abide by the rules of your experienced guide if you’re traveling on a guided kayaking or rafting tour. If you’re on your own, take time to read about the river and necessary safety precautions before you embark on your trip

River Rating - Class III

Number of Rapids – 39 miles of class III rapids

Minimum Age – Check with outfitters for details and restritions

Departure Dates – Unlike other rivers that are located further north, kayaking on the Gila River waters is best accomplished in the early spring months, usually from late February or early March until the end of April, when snow melt is at its peak.

Boat Type - Kayaks and Rafts

What to Bring - Weather can be quite extreme in the early spring, with chilly temperatures one day and scalding heat the next. Dress in layers as your trip down the Gila River will require an overnight stay, meaning you’ll need clothing of various weights during your trip.

Outfitters – Check locally for outfitters for Gila river rafting

Reviews - None available at this time, please feel free to leave a comment and or review about this river.

Alaska is home to some beautiful country, wild animals, some really big mountains, white water rafting and of course Sarah Palin. With her latest reality show that show cases both the Palin family and the state of Alaska, she has done a great job of allowing Americans and Canadians to get to know her state and her family. She is doing a great job about showing off Alaska and the many out door things you can do in Alaska. Of course all of these activities will not appeal to everyone. You just need to watch the show were Kate + Eight, visited Sarah and her family and they went on a camping trip. Not a good experience for Kate, although the kids really liked it. All of the liberal hacks and city slickers really put her down for her out doors attitudes, however I thing she is a “Real American”.

Whether she is going to take a run for President of the United States is an unknown, although she is taking huge steps to show the American people who  she is and what she stands for. In the mean time, Alaska should see a huge influx of tourism as a result of the show.

This site is all about white water rafting and not presidential candidates or reality shows so we are going to take a look at the white water rivers in Alaska. Here is a list of them along with information we could find about them.

• Copper River
• Chitina River
• Nizina River
• Kennicott River
• Alsek River
• Tatshenshini River

Copper River

Rafting in Alaska on the Copper river, through one of the world’s most dramatic canyons, will render a lifetime of memories. Offering an abundance of wildlife, cascading waterfalls, glaciers that often calve right into the river, and mild white water, this river trip floats 100 miles towards the sea, allowing for a classic passage from the heart of Alaska’s majestic mountains to the sparkling Prince William Sound. Simply put, there is no better way to experience the Alaskan wilderness than on this Alaska river rafting trip.

Chitina River

Nizina Canyon, expansive views, eagles, salmon and possible bear sightings. Open riverside camps, view of the Wrangell Mountains

This river features spectacular scenery and remote wilderness. The journey begins near the headwaters of the Kennicott River, only half a mile below the terminus of the Kennicott Glacier. Float the splashy rapids of the Kennicott and merge into the Nizina, which narrows to a steep-walled canyon, a highlight of the trip. On a multiday trip, the second day, the Nizina joins the Chitina and the valley spreads wide as we turn west, skirting the Chugach Mountains. Stop at clear streams and sloughs to search for spawning salmon and keep our eyes peeled for the grizzlies and eagles that feed on them. The last day we will end our river journey at the confluence of the Copper River, near the tiny town of Chitina.

Nizina River

Highlights: bush plane flights into the park, glacial lake exploration, mile-high cliffs, waterfalls, hiking in the vast Chitistone Valley, Nizina Canyon rapids

Less than a dozen people float this stretch of river each season. This is a unique and remote wilderness adventure, as you must be dropped off and picked up by a bush plane that lands on the river bar. The flight in takes us to the lake at the toe of the Nizina Glacier, surrounded by ice-capped peaks and rocky crags. The lake itself is full of icebergs, some as large as a house. Spend the first day hiking and rowing around the lake and exploring the wonders of ice and rock. On the second day you run the splashy rapids of the Nizina River. At night camp beneath the towering Mile-High Cliffs and the following day hike up the broad Chitistone Valley.

Day four is spent floating through a maze of channels as the river bends west around Sourdough Mountain. After floating the spectacular Nizina Canyon, pull out, pack up, and a bush plane carries you back to McCarthy.

This trip can be combined with the Chitina River Journey or the Glacier to the Ocean trip for a remote adventure up to two weeks or more in length!

Kennicott River

Few one-day rafting adventures can match the level of rushing whitewater and powerful vistas found on the remote Kennicott River, through Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The fun begins near the hamlet of McCarthy at the base of the Root and Kennicott glacial moraine, where the Kennicott River begins its steep descent away from these towering ice fields. You head off downriver for 45 minutes of delightful and challenging Class II and III rapids. A stop below the whitewater lets you marvel at a panorama that includes views of the Wrangell and Chugach mountain ranges jutting skyward.

Alsek River

Perhaps the wildest and most visually spectacular rivers in North America, the Alsek and Tatsheshini give you mountains, glaciers and more! Flowing from the inlands of the Yukon Territory to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Alaska, these rivers offer a full range of outdoor experience. The Alsek is extraordinarily different from the Tatshenshini which is only “one valley over”. Glaciers, icebergs, wildlife, canyons and a helicopter portage around Turnback Canyon add to the adventure. The Alsek valley is perhaps the most “Himalayan-like” topography on the continent!

Tatshenshini River

The Tatshenshini River flows through the heart of the largest bio-preserve in the world. Wildlife abounds as you travel through tall mountains, vast glaciers and ice burg dotted lakes.

Sarah Palin’s Alaska is one of the best shows on TV right now and it has done wonders for Alaska. Like the last show about mushing dog sleds to white water rafting. There are lots of people who love her and there are lots of people who really cannot stand the ground that she stands on. Either way though Sarah Palin’s Alaska is one of the best marketing packages anyone could put together for a state and for Sarah Palin as well. Who knows whether she will run for president of not. Right now she is riding the wave of popularity and notoriety that she has to promote herself and Alaska.

Imagine that you want to somehow get the country to get to know you, advertise your state and increase tourism in the state. Get someone like Sarah Palin to go around the state and do all of the outdoors things that any one would love to do. From hunting, to hiking to boating to mushing to white water rafting. She does it all and she can even shoot accurately according to the TV show. Whether she is  acting or not, I do not know any women that can cut trees down, operate large pieces of equipment and also be a mother to 5 children!

Each episode depicts a different sport or activity that families can take part in regardless of whether they are in Alaska or not. She is demonstrating the idea of family values, discussing some of the issues that families must deal with and showing that although she has become wealthy, she and Todd Palin are just another couple trying to make ends meet and raise a family.

We will add more posts about White Water rafting in Alaska and also about Sarah Palin. In the mean time if you have any comments about this post or about Sarah, please feel free to leave constructive comments that our readers will appreciate.

Sarah Palin and White Water Rafting on the Matanuska River

An exciting glacial fed, class III & IV whitewater trip next to the 27 mile long Matanuska Glacier. The main rapids are several miles long and the result of a squeeze play between the glaciers lateral moraine and “Lion Head”, a massive basalt rock wall from an ancient volcanic plug. A perfect trip for first-timers or experienced river runners! Oar rafts with paddle assist or full paddle rafting available.

On the show were Sarah and her family went white water rafting, there was her brother and sister, her father and a number of of the kids along with an expert guide. They appeared to have a wonderful time, getting totally soaked and thrills galore as they traversed the class III rapids. The water was ice cold since this river comes from the glacial melt that is just above the freezing point.

All though I am sure that the entire event was somewhat staged, this was a great show and demonstrated what it is like for people to go white water rafting in a setting such as Alaska. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers and a raging river, it provides some of the best scenes for a show such as this.

Other Rivers in Alaska Suitable for White Water Rafting

Perhaps the wildest and most visually spectacular rivers in North America, the Alsek and Tatsheshini give you mountains, glaciers and more! Flowing from the inlands of the Yukon Territory to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Alaska, these rivers offer a full range of outdoor experience.

The Tatshenshini River flows through the heart of the largest bio-preserve in the world. Wildlife abounds as you travel through tall mountains, vast glaciers and ice burg dotted lakes.

The Alsek is extraordinarily different from the Tatshenshini which is only “one valley over”. Glaciers, icebergs, wildlife, canyons and a helicopter portage around Turnback Canyon add to the adventure. The Alsek valley is perhaps the most “Himalayan-like” topography on the continent!

Additional rivers that can be candidates for white water rafting are COPPER RIVER – CHITINA RIVER – - NIZINA RIVER – KENNICOTT RIVER – GULF OF ALASKA.

Rafting Trip – Grand Canyon by Raft – Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek

Description - The Grand Canyon is one of the earths true natural wonders – a place with profound beauty, history, geology, and ecology. Each year, thousands of visitors from around the world gather at the Canyon’s rim to look down into its magnificent vastness, many will also hike or ride a donkey along the trail to the canyon’s bottom, but there’s no better way to really see the Canyon than to travel through it, via the Colorado River.

Journeying through the Grand Canyon on your watery pathway, you will see dramatic changes as the canyon walls climb towards the sky, mesmerizing you with awesome beauty and untold years of geological history. There are  side hikes, crystalline creeks and waterfalls, Native American history, and breathtaking scenery that can  enrich this amazing adventure.

This is one of the longest rafting trips in the US. Covering 225 river miles, this trip offers all the scenery, side canyons and whitewater excitement of canyon trip with the glories of Marble Canyon, the mysteries of the Inner Gorge, terrific side hikes and Indian ruins, crystalline creeks and waterfalls, cactus gardens and whitewater galore. You can  explore the numerous side canyons, which crisscross this magnificent region, each having it’s own unique attractions, just waiting to be discovered.

River Rating - 42 major rapids rated 5 or above on a scale of 1 to 10

Number of Rapids - 42,  The two most noted of the Colorado’s rapids, Crystal and Lava Falls, are both rated a 10. The intensity of all rapids naturally depends on the water level, so readings for low and high water levels may vary slightly.

Minimum Age – 12 years

Departure Dates – Dates vary by year, 2011 – May 21 until October 10

Boat Type -  Varies by outfitter, most are 18 feet inflatable rafts, holding 4 passengers and a guide.

What to Bring -

• Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
• Grand Canyon National Park Entrance Fee
• Items of a personal nature (an equipment list will be provided)
• Sleeping bags and pads (these items often can be rented from your outfitter)
• Insurance of any kind, including travel insurance
• Alcoholic beverages

What’s Usually Included?

• Transportation by van from meeting point to put-in at Lees Ferry and return from Diamond Creek
• Expedition equipment, including highest quality rafts, 2 person shared tent, personal flotation device (PFD, waterproof bags, camp chair as well as eating utensils, plates and cups for overnight trips
• Skilled, professional, experienced guides
• Meals from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on your last day

Reviews – Feel free to post a review of this trip and white water rafting adventure.

Outfitters – O.A.R.S. is one of the outfitters we have reviewed and  has been in business since 1969 . Great trips on some of the world’s best rivers, coastlines and mountains are the recipe for this success. Always focused on our clients and their vacations, it is our genuine—if not biased—belief that river trips and wilderness vacations are extremely valuable life experiences.

EXPERIENCE

• In 1969, O.A.R.S. became the first exclusively oar-powered rafting outfitter to offer river trips through the Grand Canyon. The immediate success of these trips inspired founder and President George Wendt to expand his business into the largest and most geographically diverse rafting, sea kayaking, and multi-sport company in North America.

Since 1969, the family-owned and operated company has shared in the world’s waterways with more than 450,000 guests. With more than 75 itineraries on over 35 rivers and coastlines worldwide, four decades of experience in the industry, and some staff members who have been with the company since nearly the beginning, O.A.R.S. is routinely recognized for serving up some of the “Best Trips on the Planet,”

Ocoee River

The Ocoee river is located in Tennessee and is one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the nation. With over 20 continuous rapids and many spots to stop for lunch and just play around, white water rafting enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy this beautiful and entertaining Ocoee rafting river whitewater destination. Check out some of the many companies who provide rafting trips in this area and go over all of the details to ensure that you find the one that makes most sense for you and your family.

Most Ocoee rafting river whitewater trips being in April and continue through the summer months into the fall up to October. There are a number of companies that will provide full services to help you enjoy your Ocoee rafting river whitewater trip. Generally speaking, no experience is necessary and these companies have experienced guides that will take you down the river on half day or full day trips. Rafting on higher class rapids provides more of a thrill and participants should verify safety gear as well as guide experience.

The Ocoee rafting river whitewater trip will take you through 20 rapids and drop 260 feet from the start to the finish. Since the Ocoee river is dam controlled the rapids are just as great in the dryer summer months as they are in the spring and fall. Check with local companies to confirm flows and status of rapids. White water rafters along the Ocoee will also enjoy the trip though the dramatic Ocoee gorge.

Full river Ocoee rafting river whitewater trips are full day trips, while shorter trips can be planned along the lower, middle and upper Ocoee river rapids area. Tennessee state park regulations require people who will take advantage of the Ocoee rafting river whitewater trips must be 12 years of age or older.

Pigeon River

The Pigeon River, located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, offers breathtaking scenery and heart-stopping thrills! This magnificent river begins in North Carolina and continues through Tennessee. Experience white water rafting in Tennessee and romp through class 3 to 4 rapids where you’ll be assured of an exciting adventure!

UPPER PIGEON – Whitewater Trip

The Big Pigeon River boasts twelve Class III and three Class IV whitewater thrilling rapids! Always confirm the level of experience of your guide who ccompanies you.  Rafting in the Smokies requires professional river guides, to  escort you down five miles of lively whitewater, rafting through Class III & IV rapids that are aptly labeled,  such as “Too Late, Vegamatic, Razor Blade, After Shave, and Lost Guide.”

The scenery surrounding the Pigeon River is just as breathtaking as the rapids. Enjoy the view between sets of rapids, since you will have limited time to view the scenery as you run many of these challenging rapids. Skirted by the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Cherokee National Forest, Martha Sundquist State Forest and the Appalachian Trail, the Pigeon has carved its rocky riverbed through some of the most dramatic country in East Tennessee.

LOWER PIGEON – Float Trip

Looking for a way to really relax and enjoy natures beauty? Do you have children who weigh less than 70 lbs? If you answered yes to either, then the lower section of the lower Pigeon may be right for you. Check out the Lower Section of the Pigeon River!

The Class I and II rapids and one Class III at the end of the trip, make this very casual and laid back section of the Pigeon River perfect for everyone 3 years old and up! Your guides will assist you, your family and friends down approximately six miles of relaxing waves and rippling mountain water.

You’ll gaze at the beautiful Smoky Mountain surroundings as you casually float this section of the Pigeon River. If someone in your group needs a little more adventure, check out the rapids on the Upper Pigeon! Plan coinciding trips on the Upper and Lower Pigeon for members of your group to ensure that everyone has a great time. The portion of the group rafting the Lower Pigeon Float Trip can be scheduled to coincide with the other portion of the group’s Upper Pigeon Trip.

The Nolichucky River — Erwin, Tennessee

The Nolichucky is a magical place. Born on the slopes of Mount Mitchell, the Noli surges into the ridge of the Unaka Mountains and cuts across the Tennessee and North Carolina border. This free flowing river is as diverse as it is spectacular. But one thing is for sure-you’ll have a great time. Jagged rock faces tower over beds of laurel and rhododendron. Deer come down to the water to drink.

Gauley White Water Rafting

Thousands of adventure thrill seekers of all ages will go down the spectacular New River Gorge, and the world class Gauley River Canyon, every year. The New & Gauley River Adventures are some of the best in the wild wonderful mountain areas of West Virginia.

New River or Gauley River offers a variety of river rafting trips for paddlers of all skill levels, beginner to expert, young or old, mild or wild. Gauley rafting river whitewater adventures range from a 2 hour rafting express trip, to full day lower New River rafting , Gauley River rafting or a multi day extended vacation. There are several companies that provide whitewater rafting tours and excursions along the Gauley river in West Virginia. They offer a variety of vacation packages ranging from half day trips to multi day camping and whitewater adventure tours.

The fun doesn’t stop at river’s edge, either. Year-round, complete vacation packages for individuals, groups or families can include, guided fishing trips, horseback riding / sleigh rides in winter, kayaking, hiking, biking , rock climbing instruction, 4 x 4 back road tours, snow shoeing, all along the Gauley river. After your adventure settle in for a relaxing evening at a campground or one of the many cozy cabins or cottages in the area.

World class staff , guides, shuttle drivers and adventure consultants, are friendly, highly skilled outdoor professionals, committed to safety, service and hospitality. Small wonder so many returning guests come back every year for White Water Rafting and outdoor adventure in the mountains of Mountains of Wild Wonderful West Virginia

Rivers

Some of these rivers run through several different states, so you may see some of the same rivers in different posts

West Virginia’s rivers offer the widest range of whitewater experiences available anywhere, from gently rippling streams for the new rafting enthusiast to explosive rapids for the more adventuresome outdoor expert. Each set of rapids  has its own unique beauty and poses its own unique challenges for the rafting enthusiasts.

The New River

The New River is one of  the longest commercially raftable river in the East, offering everything from gentle float trips for the entire family to thunderous whitewater for those that want more of a thrill and challenge. The Upper New is scenic and relaxing, with just enough whitewater action to keep you hopping. The Lower New is powerful and intense, with a tremendous succession of Class IV and V rapids that have earned it consistent rankings as one of the ten best in the world.

The Gauley River

The Gauley River is another  one of the most challenging rivers in the world. The Upper Gauley is highly technical, requiring great skill  from skilled guides as well as rafters to negotiate its narrow chutes and machine-gun rapids. It ranks in the top five in the world for whitewater adventure. The Lower Gauley is a complete, all-in-one white water rafting experience that features numerous big Class IV and V rapids interspersed by broad pools and tremendous scenery.

The Cheat River

The Cheat River, in northern West Virginia, is powered by the largest unrestricted watershed in the East and offers a full range of rafting including numerous highly technical Class IV and V rapids in a wilderness canyon.  Enjoy the scenery and the outdoor majestic views. The Narrows is a spectacular natural feature along the Cheat.

The Tygart River

The Tygart River is a tributary of the Cheat that offers adventurous rafting in the spring, when water levels are highest, and a full range of river sports in the summer and fall. It is often combined with the Cheat into package trips.

The Potomac River

The Potomac River offers exciting rafting in eastern West Virginia during April, May and September, when large controlled releases are made from the Jennings Randolph Dam upstream. Year-round, the Potomac also is one of the best fishing rivers in the East.

The Shenandoah River

The Shenandoah River joins the Potomac at historic Harper’s Ferry, W.Va., and provides rafting and other river-sports opportunities to residents of nearby East Coast metropolitan areas and to visitors from far and wide.

Other Virginia White Water Rivers

Several other West Virginia streams are favorites for specialized activities, including the Meadow River, Big Sandy Creek and the Bluestone River. The Lower Meadow, with its succession of big drops and narrow chutes, is a particular favorite of kayakers looking for the ultimate in action and excitement. Big Sandy Creek is another favorite of kayakers when spring rainfall creates a series of falls that challenge the world’s best. The Bluestone is known for canoeing, float trips and great fishing.

Shenandoah River and the Potomac Rivers

The final stretches of the Shenandoah River tumbles into the Potomac, carving a spectacular 6.5-mile watercourse through the Blue Ridge Mountains offering great Maryland whitewater rafting. Travel on these two rivers through three states (Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia) on unforgettable 2 to 4.5 hour guided rafting whitewater trips.

During periods of low water the trip is exclusively on the Potomac, coursing through a majestic water gap, with a view Thomas Jefferson wrote was worth a voyage across the Atlantic. Both trips offer Class I-III whitewater, made up of some mellow water, permitting splashing and floating, multiple riffles and ledges, and challenging rapids such as “Bull Falls” and “White Horse.”

Experienced guides lead your trip, showing you the best route through the rapids while entertaining you with tales from the river. As you float by Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, learn about events that lead up to the Civil War.

Whitewater Rafting the North Branch

A step up from the Shenandoah / Potomac River raft trip is the Potomac’s North Branch guided tour. Spring and Fall releases from Jennings Randolph Dam near Keyser, West Virginia and Bloomington, Maryland provide for optimum levels of whitewater rafting.

This trip, only three hours from the Washington DC area, is nestled in the heart of the Potomac Highlands, making for a fantastic day, overnight, or weekend getaway. Rapids are continuous Class II-III+ , and the high water volumes and steeper gradient of the North Branch create waves and rollers up to six feet high. Sections of calm water permit cliff-jumping, relaxation, and swimming.

Wet suits are suggested due to the coldness of the water and air temperatures. These suits are provided by many rafting companies, while others will charge a nominal fee. Some companies will also offer deals if you book for more than one trip at a time or have larger groups that are booking at the same time. Inquire with the white warer company you are booking with.

If you enjoy outdoor cook outs then you will also enjoy these rafting trips. Depending on the trip, your guide will prepare a wonderful outdoor meal which tastes spectacular in the fresh air after rafting down the river.

Other Things to do in the Area

For those who want to make a getaway or mini vacation of the trip…Mineral County and the surrounding Potomac Highlands provide many outdoor and indoor activities that would interest visitors of all ages.

If you have interests in caving, photography, nature walks, hiking, country music, biking, festivals, fairs, antiques, old time train rides or just sitting on a mountain side and marveling at the majesty of it all, you will be have come to the right place.

There are many out doors activities that will appeal to all ages and activity levels. If a some of your party really do not want to take in the white water rafting experience, they can enjoy the scenery from the shore, go hiking or enjoy a few cool beers in one of the local  pubs. There is lots to do in the area and anyone who really enjoys the outdoors will will enjoy a weekened or two in the Shenandoah and Potomac river areas.

This are of the US has a lot of limestone and limestone is great for allowing running water to build caves throughout it. Caving may not be for everyone, especially if you do not like wet tight places. Most caves are wet, meaning that there is water either dripping or running in the cave. With the running water the cave is actually still being built and changing, all bei it very slowly. Dry caves on the other hand are not changing and do not have water running through them. They are more pleasant to hike in, but you may not see some of the grander sites in these caves that you would see in a wet cave.

Enjoy the outdoors and everything that this area has to offer. Leave your comments to help readers appreciate this area of the US.

The spectacular rivers of Oregon are an outdoor treasure waiting to be discovered by experts and newbe’s alike. Everyone should find a way to make your Oregon white water rafting dreams come true this season. The scenery is beautiful, the rivers challenging and the air is fresh.

There are whitewater rafting trips in Oregon for every range of interest and every level of ability, from half-day thrillers to five-day adventures through the heart of wild Oregon. Camp out under the stars and enjoy the wilderness, or take one of the more challenging rapids with lots of high waves and deep troughs.

The Umpqua, north of Crater Lake, is a fast flowing whitewater rafting gem from the Cascades and is a whitewater dream. In addition to exceptional Class III and IV whitewater, it is also one of the most beautiful rivers in the Pacific Northwest. Its continuous pool and drop rapids keep constant action rolling. The Umpqua has more rapids per mile than any other Oregon river. This river truly deserves the Wild and Scenic protection it acquired. Volcanic columns tower over the canyon, the river is breathtaking in both beauty and excitement.

The McKenzie, with its crystal clear water banked by lush forests, is ideal both for an introduction to river running, or an exhilarating trip for the experienced. Consider this trip if you are a first time rafter and want to try out rafting, without being over the top with waves.

The Grande Ronde River is one of Oregon’s treasures waiting to be discovered. Cutting its way through the ancient lava flows of northeast Oregon, this swift river winds through steep canyon lands of 2,400 feet elevation and past impressive basalt formations before joining the Columbia. Forests of fir, mixed conifer, and ponderosa pine provide habitat for an amazing array of bird and wildlife along the way. Sightings of Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep await the lucky rafter.

Oregon’s most dramatic whitewater river cuts an isolated course through the sagebrush tablelands in southeast Oregon. This remote high desert wilderness is the setting for an unforgettable four or five day trip. A National Wild and Scenic River since 1984, the Owyhee offers scenery reminiscent of Bryce and Zion National Parks in Utah. If you have been to either of these parks, you will know that you are in for a treat for sites that you have never scene and can only imagine.

The John Day takes you into one of Oregon’s finest river canyons. It is a charming and exciting river with incredible scenery and unspoiled beauty. Its 280 miles is the longest undammed river in the Pacific Northwest, and is federally protected as a Wild and Scenic River. The basalt formations and bluffs are truly impressive, cliffs and palisades tower more than 3,000 feet high above the river. Truly impressive and something to behold.

Exhilarating whitewater, spectacular rocky mountain vistas, and sunny warm desert canyons combine to make the Deschutes the best known river in Oregon. The Deschutes offers hot sun tanning days and cool swimming under clear blue skies. This section is a designated Wild and Scenic River offering exciting Class III and IV rapids including Oak Springs, Elevator, Buckskin Mary, and Boxcar.

With so many rapids to chose from it is difficult to know were to start. If you are a first time rafter, start with the lower class of rapids, perhaps a half day trip to get used to it. Then move up to a full day trip and perhaps a higher rated set of rapids to increase the challenge. Remember that most trips will include at least one higher rated set of rapids, so be sure to discuss this with your rafting company to ensure that you fully understand what you are getting into.

Once you are in the raft and heading down the river there is no turning back. In fact as you enter the rapids you may not even realize just how challenging they are until you are actually in the middle of some giant wave and getting soaked as your raft bends and buckles with the water. Hang on, because in many cases that is all you can do and hope your guide knows what he is doing.

This is one of the most exciting things you will do in your lifetime, so make sure that someone you know comes with you. The memories are wonderful, but they get even better if you share them with someone and can talk about your river trips for years to come. River rafting with someone you know is actually the most important part of the entire trip!

If you have comments about your trips or some of the Oregon rivers that you have been on , feel free to leave your comments as well.