White water rafting is one of the most exciting sports there is – absolutely packed full of adrenaline-inducing moments, as well as the fact that rafting hot spots are usually in areas of natural beauty by their very nature. You can enjoy the excitement and activity whilst also glorying in the power of nature. But not all white water rafting is the same, and some places are definitely better than others – so here, we’ve put together the best places in the US for white water rafting.
Before we get to that, here’s what we’ve taken into account:
Variety of courses
Some places only have class I rapids, while other places have only class V. We’ve picked places that have a variety.
Family opportunities
We’ve picked places that you can enjoy a day out with your whole family
Scenery
We’ve picked places with only the most stunning scenery
Other activities available
No matter how much you love white water rafting, it’s great to have the opportunity to do other things too – so we’ve picked places where other activities are available.
West Virginia
The Gauley River in West Virginia is an absolutely unmissable whitewater rafting destination, with a world class stretch of Class V rapids that will test even the most experienced. West Virginia’s east coast is the heart of the rafting culture too with many different locations available and attracting rafters from globe destinations.
Oregon
The amazing Rogue River in Oregon has some fantastically challenging rapids, including Class V Rainie Falls – a known destination for experienced rafters. The scenery includes lush forests, deep ravines and dramatic canyons and is very different to more southern landscapes.
Colorado White Water Rafting
For us, this state has to take the top spot. There are plenty of amazing locations to go white water rafting in the USA, but white water rafting Denver or Colorado Springs has it all. With plenty of variety in the class of rapids, you can enjoy the activity here whatever your ability level, and this also means there are plenty of opportunities for family runs on lower-class rapids or more adrenaline-pumping, harder runs on higher class rapids. Colorado also has amazing opportunities for climbing, hiking, and more.
So there you have it – our top spots in the United States to fo white water rafting. Make sure you book your trip soon and soak up that scenery!
