Harpers Ferry White Water Rafting

This Harpers Ferry white water rafting trip will take you down the white water sections of the Shenandoah or Potomac River. This trip is great for beginner to intermediate paddlers!

White Water Rafting & Whiskey - Saturday, May 17th

Reserve Your Spot Now: Space is Limited! The Annual White Water and Whiskey Event offers a guided white water rafting experience on the Shenandoah River with class 3 rapids. This 7-mile Shenandoah river rafting excursion is suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers and offers beautiful scenery.

Highlights

 

  • The Harpers Ferry white water rafting trip is suitable for individuals aged 6-8 years (50 lbs) and older.
  • Rafts typically hold 4-6 guests, along with a guide. However, the number of participants in each raft may vary depending on water levels and the size of the group.
  • This white water rafting excursion spans 5-7 miles and offers a delightful experience for paddlers of all levels. It features class I-III (I-II+) white water rapids and stunning scenery.
  • We kindly request that all guests arrive one hour before the scheduled departure time for your trip.

Details

 

  • River: Shenandoah and/or Potomac River
  • Location: Harpers Ferry, WV near Washington, DC
  • Class: I-III (sometimes I-II+)
  • Dates: Daily, March through November
  • Duration: 2-3 hours on the riverย 
  • This is a guided trip with one of our trained, experienced guides
Spend a Full Day with us

BUy an Adventure Day Pass

The River Riders Adventure Pass gives you access to a full day of activities! You get your choice of one guided activity and one self-guided activity.

  • Choose your guided activity from rafting, river tubing, or ziplining first.
  • Purchase your ticket based upon your guided activity choice (and whether you want a weekday or weekend ticket).
  • In the afternoon participate in up to 2 hours on The Adventure Park or The Potomac Play Pass.
  • Now that’s a day of adventure the whole family can enjoy!

Description

Experience the thrill of Harpers Ferry white water rafting and create lasting memories while reconnecting with what matters most.

Summer and Fall white water trips are mild and family-friendly due to lower water levels. Spring rafting trips offer an exciting and heart-pounding experience. The Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers are great options for beginner to intermediate paddlers. This popular white water rafting trip takes place near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, where Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia meet. The 5-7 mile river excursion offers class I-III (I-II+ in lower water) white water rapids and stunning scenery for beginner to intermediate paddlers.

River Riders has been consistently ranked as the top outdoor activity in Harpers Ferry on TripAdvisor for the past decade. We have the necessary expertise, guides, and equipment to fulfill all of your outdoor adventure requirements. Join us for fun and excitement, conveniently located just an hour away from both Washington, DC, and Baltimore, MD.

Rafting FAQs

What is the difficulty level of rafting in Harpers Ferry?

Rafting trips in Harpers Ferry typically feature Class Iโ€“III rapids, suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers. These rapids offer a mix of gentle flows and moderate challenges, making them ideal for those new to whitewater rafting.

It’s recommended to wear quick-drying clothing, such as synthetic or moisture-wicking fabrics. Water shoes or sandals with straps are essential for foot protection. Avoid wearing cotton, as it retains water and can cause discomfort. Some outfitters provide wetsuits or splash jackets during cooler months.

We suggest that anyone going on our rafting trips be 6-8 years (50 lbs) and older.

In the event of falling out, stay calm and follow the guide’s instructions. Most outfitters emphasize safety and provide training on how to re-enter the raft or navigate to safety. It’s important to wear the provided life jacket at all times

Our rafting trips run April – October.

During the spring, river levels will be higher, making rafting trips more action-packed and faster.

During the summer, river levels will vary depending on rain, and water temperatures will be higher.

During the fall, river levels vary, water temperatures remain fairly warm, and the changing leaves make for very scenic rafting.

Related Activities