The U.S. is home to some of the world’s best river rafting destinations, thanks to its many rivers and diverse landscapes. From the silky flow of North Carolina’s Nantahala River to the roaring rapids of Colorado waterways, there is something for everyone.
Whether you are planning a quiet family trip, hunting for the next blood-rushing adventure, or just getting started, here’s a list of top river rafting trips and destinations in the U.S. you should check out.
Rogue River, Oregon
The Rogue River is known for serving up unforgettable whitewater rafting adventures. An excellent option for people of all ages, visitors can enjoy a thrilling ride courtesy of the river’s Class II to Class IV rapids. Whether you are looking for a family adventure or a thrilling ride as a seasoned rafter, this river has something for you.
Rogue River rafting trips typically last a few hours to several days. Thanks to its location within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, you can enjoy lush scenery and wildlife viewing, including black bears, otters, turtles, and birds of prey. Other fun activities you can enjoy during your trip include hiking, exploring historical sites, and swimming in the river’s warm waters.
Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania
Located in Ohiopyle State Park, PA, the Youghiogheny takes you on an exciting rafting adventure through the Laurel Highlands. The river, which is often referred to as the “Yough,” is divided into three main sections featuring class II, III, and IV rapids. It offers a variety of rafting experiences suited to different types of rafters, including families, beginners, and experts. Rafters can take half or full-day trips, enjoying the river’s unique challenges while taking in the stunning scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
Stanley, Idaho
Also referred to as the “River of No Return,” the Salmon River flows through the middle of Idaho. If you are a beginner or planning a family trip, head to Stanley. This part of the Salmon River has Class II and III rapids.
Whether planning a single or multi-day river rafting trip, the Salmon River will take you through the state’s most rugged and scenic wilderness. In June, check out Middle Fork for the best rafting experience in the entire country. Other attractions you can check out during your Salmon River rafting trips include Native American pictographs, historical sites, and hot springs.
Tuolumne River, California
If you are after the most consistent whitewater rafting of any river in the U.S., check out California’s Tuolumne River.
For 18 miles, the river has everything from Class II to Class IV rapids, making it suitable for beginners right through to expert rafters.
However, this destination stands out from the rest because of the camping and exploring opportunities provided through multi-day trips. The river’s proximity to Yosemite adds to its appeal to visitors. Furthermore, rafters can enjoy world-Class relaxation and swimming in the Tuolumne River’s North Fork and Clavey River.
Buena Vista, Colorado
Every year, from spring through summer, Colorado provides jaw-dropping scenery and top-tier river rafting trips to thousands of rafters. Buena Vista is the top rafting destination in the state, and the Arkansas River is very popular among rafting enthusiasts.
If you bring kids along, rent an inflatable kayak and enjoy family-friendly rafting tours. On the other hand, experienced rafters can check out Browns Canyon for some action-packed fun. As you flow through the river, enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery of Browns Canyon National Monument and the Rocky Mountains.
Jackson, Wyoming
Snake River offers exhilarating river rafting adventures in the scenic backdrop of the Grand Tetons. Beginners, families, and experienced rafters can all enjoy the river’s Class II and III rapids. For an unforgettable experience, check out popular rapids like the Big Kahuna and Lunch Counter, which are known for heart-pounding splashes and waves.
The Teton Range offers varied wildlife, such as deer and eagles, lush forests, and breathtaking, rugged mountain views. For optimal water levels and warmer weather, always schedule your Snake River rafting trips for the summer, between May and September.
Nantahala River, North Carolina
If you are looking for the perfect place to go rafting in North Carolina, head to the Nantahala River. It is popular among beginner rafters and families and offers a fun and manageable experience thanks to its class II and III rapids. Typically, river rafting trips last around three hours on this scenic river. While there, remember to enjoy the beauty and scenery of the Nantahala National Forest during your river rafting adventure.
Green River, Utah
As the Southwest’s longest river system, the Green River seemingly has it all. An excellent option for families, the Gates of Lodore Canyon section features stimulating Class III rapids that can be tackled using an inflatable raft, paddle boat, or oar raft. This multi-day rafting trip is full of exciting possibilities. In addition to going through the Dinosaur National Monument, rafters can enjoy the wild views of the canyon’s towering sandstone and red rock walls, hike to scenic overlooks and waterfalls, or unwind and set up camp on the sandy shores.
Remember to explore the dramatic landscape where dinosaurs walked millions of years ago by heading to Desolation Canyon.
River rafting is extremely popular in the United States. Check out the river rafting trips above for an unforgettable and exciting experience with your family and/or friends.
On Foot or by Rail: How to Experience the Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies are simply spectacular. One of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, they cover a wide area with deep forests, glowing glacial lakes, and towering peaks spanning thousands of miles.
There are many ways to explore this beautiful British Columbia and Alberta region. However, nothing beats the exhilarating nature of exploring this expansive area on foot or by train. The region is dotted with thousands of kilometers of hiking trails. If you would rather sit back and relax as the gentle humming of a train soothes you, consider taking a luxury train tour instead.
Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape of the Rockies from the comfort of a luxury train seat or get up close with the varied wildlife, here is a detailed guide on how to explore the Canadian Rockies by rail or on foot.
Enjoy Rugged Alpine Terrain and Wildlife on a Train
Via Rail’s Canadian Train allows passengers to enjoy the best sights and wildlife in the Rockies, without roads. This Canadian Rockies train trip links Vancouver and Toronto, covering everything from the Rockies and flat prairies to bustling cities. Along the way, it stops in Jasper, Edmonton, and Winnipeg.
The train’s stopovers are integrated with the crew changes and refueling schedule. Passengers can take this opportunity to explore the surrounding area quickly. Alternatively, you can opt for a multi-day stay and explore the Rockies during the stopover at Jasper until the next scheduled train.
Tour the Rockies in Luxury
As one of the world’s most unique rail journeys, the Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers through the jaw-dropping landscapes of Canada’s Alberta and British Columbia. These luxurious Canadian Rockies train tours follow three main routes—Rainforest to Gold Rush, Journey through the Clouds, and First Passage to the West. The train stops in Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Kamloops, Quesnel, Whistler, and Vancouver.
The Rocky Mountaineer only runs during the daytime between April and October. Passengers can enjoy unmatched views of the region’s stunning landscape and varied wildlife through the train’s glass dome coaches, outdoor platform, and large windows.
Backpacking Through Jasper National Park
Jasper is among the best places to hike in the Canadian Rockies. Whether you are a photographer, wildlife spotter, or hiking enthusiast, you will be thrilled to know that Jasper National Park has varied wildlife, including squirrels, beavers, marmots, elk, and bears.
Enjoy exceptional views of Pyramid Mountain by taking a bus or riding a bike to Pyramid Lake and walking along the Patricia Lake loop. Maligne Lake also serves up some spectacular hiking trails full of scenic views. You can head to Bald Hills or Opal Hills to hike from the lake’s edge. Expect to see mountain peaks, open ridges, and rolling alpine meadows wherever you look.
Looking for stunning turquoise water views? Check out the Valley of Five Lakes hike, located further south in Jasper National Park.
Walk Along Glaciers in Banff National Park
This is one of the best hiking spots in the Canadian Rockies. Only 3% of this 330,000 square-kilometer park is accessible by car. You will find a long list of hiking trails throughout Banff National Park. One option is Cory Pass, which takes you below the towering faces of Mt. Louis and Mt. Edith, giving you jaw-dropping views.
Be sure to check out the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail at Lake Louise and the Eifel Lake trail close to Lake Moraine for awe-inspiring views of glaciers. If you visit Victoria Glacier, you might even catch breathtaking sights of vast chunks of ice dropping into the adjacent cliff. Enjoy unrivaled views of the Saskatchewan Glacier by heading north to Parker Ridge.
Sip Some Refreshing Glacial Meltwater at Yoho National Park
Yoho is a relatively small park. This means you can sample all the hiking trails in one visit.
Start your park exploration with a hike along the Emerald Lake circuit. The trail follows Emerald Lake’s shore, where you can take in scenic views of the nearby mountains. Don’t forget to swim in the lake or drink from the lodge below.
For epic views of Takkakaw Falls, take the Iceline Trail, which takes you below a glacier. Remember to fill your bottle with meltwater or touch the glacier there. Want to avoid people during your hike? Head over to Sherbrooke Lake via the Paget Lookout trail.
Go Wildlife Spotting at Kootenay National Park
For a good mix of easy and strenuous hiking trails, head over to Kootenay National Park. A major hit among animal lovers, the park is home to elk, deer, bears, and more.
Marble Canyon is one of the easier hiking trails in the park. Walk up to the bridge at the top of the canyon and take in eye-popping views of the canyon and the waterfall below. Hike along one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Floe Lake, as you enjoy sweeping landscape views of the surrounding trees.
Visiting the Canadian Rockies is the trip of a lifetime! Exploring this part of the world on foot or by train ensures you enjoy the perfect balance of scenery, adventure, and luxury.
