Are you planning to visit Shenandoah Valley National Park and looking for an adrenaline rush? River rafting might be just the thing for you!
Shenandoah Valley National Park offers some of the best river rafting experiences in the country with stunning scenery, exciting rapids, and experienced guides. Here’s what you need to know to start your own epoch, white-water adventure!
Shenandoah Valley National Park
Shenandoah Valley National Park is a beautiful park that attracts visitors from all over the world. This long, narrow national park lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
It’s famous “Skyline Drive” welcomes visitors enjoying the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, while its hiking trails guide campers along the Appalachian Trail.
In addition to hiking, camping, and enjoying the scenery, visitors can also ride the rivers that begin in Shenandoah Valley National Park!
Which Rivers flow through Shenandoah Valley National Park?
Shenandoah Valley National Park follows a mountainous ridgeline. While there are not rivers to raft within the national park, this park is home to the headwater streams that feed multiple area rivers.
To the west of the park is Shenandoah River which has its beginnings in Shenandoah Valley. To the east of the park are the Rappahannock and James Rivers, both also fed by the park’s headwater streams.
Thus, there are many ways and places for families to enjoy the Shenandoah waters!
Why River Rafting is a great Family Activity to enjoy in Shenandoah Valley National Park
River rafting is an exciting and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors. It is a great way to bond with friends and family, and it is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of nature from a unique perspective. River rafting is also a fantastic way to get some exercise and enjoy the thrill of challenging rapids.
Whether you’re a first-time rafter or an experienced pro, there are plenty of river rafting options available to suit your needs.
For more adventures and activities to enjoy with the family, read about our top Shenandoah Family Adventures.
Best Time for River Rafting in Shenandoah Valley National Park
The western portion of Virgina is mountainous and at moderate altitudes. Shenandoah Valley National Park experiences moderate, seasonal weather: hot summers, snowy winters, wet springs, and cool falls.
There are two factors to consider when planning the time of year that you will raft the region’s rivers. First of all, you will need to consider your own comfort and tendencies to be warm or cold.
For those who are easily chilled, the heat of the summer sun will be a perfect contrast to the cool, river temperatures of the summer. For those who are always warm or are willing to invest in more gear, the cooler spring or fall may offer a pleasant experience.
The second consideration we advise is to assess your family’s adventure level. Different seasons of the year will impact water levels and flow rates, thus creating more or less intense rapids.
Rapids are more challenging during the spring and summer months on the Shenandoah rivers. However, if you’re a beginner, it’s best to go during the fall or when the flow rates have eased and the rapids are less challenging.
River Rafting Companies Near Shenandoah Valley National Park
There are several river rafting companies located near Shenandoah Valley National Park that offer a range of experiences for rafters of all skill levels. Here are some of the top companies to consider:
1. Shenandoah River Outfitters
Shenandoah River Outfitters is one of the oldest river rafting companies in the Shenandoah Valley region. It is located in Luray, Virgina, right outside of the national park’s western entrance gate.
They offer a variety of river rafting options including family-friendly trips, half-day trips, and full-day trips. Their experienced guides will ensure that you have a safe and exciting rafting experience.
Shenandoah River Outfitters also offers tubing, canoeing, and kayaking experiences for those who are looking for even more water fun!
2. James River Runners
James River Runners offers river rafting experiences on the James River in central Virginia. They are located in Scottsville, Virginia, which is about 45-minutes east of Shenandoah Valley National Park.
They offer a range of trips including half-day trips, full-day trips, and other water-based adventures. They also have options available for both beginners and experienced rafters. Their experienced guides will help you navigate the rapids and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
3. Adventures on the Gorge
Adventures on the Gorge is a West Virginia-based river rafting company that offers a variety of rafting experiences on the New River. Although this outfitter is three hours west of Shenandoah Valley National Park, we have included it for our dedicated, park-loving readers!
If you are already in the western Virginia region, why not enjoy a second national park on your trip? Head over to West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park, and experience the white water of this special place!
They have trips available for all skill levels and offer a range of other outdoor activities including ziplining and rock climbing.
Shenandoah River
The Shenandoah River is a popular destination for river rafting near Shenandoah Valley National Park. It is a calm and gentle river, making it an excellent option for beginners and families with children.
The river has several Class I and II rapids that add a bit of excitement to the trip, but overall, it is a relaxing and scenic float down the river.
James River
The James River is a popular river rafting destination in central Virginia, located to the east of Shenandoah Valley National Park.
The river has several Class I and II rapids, making it an excellent option for beginners and families. The James River also offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to several unique species of fish and wildlife.
New River
The New River is a popular river rafting destination located in West Virginia, just a short drive from Shenandoah Valley National Park. The river has several Class III and IV rapids, making it a more challenging experience for experienced rafters.
The New River also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic New River Gorge National Park!
Safety Tips for River Rafting
River rafting can be a fun and exciting experience, but it’s important to take safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always wear a life jacket and helmet.
- Follow the instructions of your guide.
- Stay in the boat at all times.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards.
What to Wear and Bring for River Rafting
When going river rafting near Shenandoah Valley National Park, it’s important to wear appropriate clothing and bring the necessary gear. Here’s a list of what to wear and bring:
- Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing
- Water shoes or sandals with straps
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat or visor
- Waterproof camera or GoPro
- Snacks and water
For details and explanation of this gear, read our full post on what to wear whitewater rafting!
If you need even more whitewater adventures, head south to find North Carolina’s BEST whitewater river adventures!
Final Thoughts
River rafting is an exciting and adventurous way to explore the beautiful Shenandoah Valley National Park. With several river rafting companies and destinations nearby, there are plenty of options for rafters of all skill levels.
We hope that your family will enjoy some time on the waters this year on your trip to Shenandoah Valley National Park and the beautiful state of Virginia!
