The Best Rafting Experiences in the United States
White water rafting is one of the most exhilarating sports there is, and although it can be pretty extreme it’s also accessible to those of us who are just after an adrenaline high – the perfect addition to any adventure holiday. The States is famous for its wild, varied landscapes, and you won’t be short of rapids to choose from – but where are the best rafting expeditions in the USA?
- Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona
No worthwhile guide to rafting would be complete without mentioning the Grand Canyon rafting expedition, famous the world over. As well as a fantastic and exciting rafting experience, this route offers stunning views of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Rafting in the Grand Canyon is a great way to see a famous attraction from a new perspective, and its rapids offer an adventure for beginners and experts alike.
- Arkansas River, Colorado
This state offers some of the most exciting routes for rafting in the whole USA, but some of the best white water rafting in Colorado is to be had on the Arkansas River. An unmissable attraction is the Royal Gorge, an exhilarating route featuring Class IV and V rapids including the famous Sunshine Falls and The Narrows. Just an hour away from Colorado Springs, no rafter worth their salt should miss this fantastic experience.
- North Fork of the American River, California
A former haunt of gold-hunters, the North Fork of the American River has the unique option of a man-made rapid – Tunnel Chute, the historical leftovers of a mining blast in the 1800s. This amazing rafting location offers stunning scenery of the California wilderness, exciting rapids for an adrenaline rush and enough calm water in between to take in the surroundings – this is some of the best rafting in the San Francisco area.
- Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
Offering a high-octane rafting route, the Yough River white water tour is a fantastic option for a group of mixed abilities, as it has plenty of stretches for beginners to enjoy as well as enough holes and standing waves to keep the more experienced rafter entertained. Running through a state park, you’ll also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the river valley along the way.
The USA has an almost inexhaustible list of options for any outdoor sport you can think of, and is so full of spectacular rivers it’s hard to choose between all the destinations available for white water rafting. Whether you’re an old hand, a beginner, or looking for a mixed bag location perfect for a group, one of these top four locations will suit you down to the ground.