6 scenic white water rafting destinations to get your heart racing

Catherine Garcia, The Week US
·3 min read
Rafters on a yellow inflatable boat paddle on the Nahatlatch River.
Rafters on a yellow inflatable boat paddle on the Nahatlatch River.

Not much can rival the thrill of white water rafting. Every run is an adventure, with the spray hitting your face as you whoosh down the river, the scenery streaking by. All rafters have to start somewhere, and beginners can hit the Class I rapids, which are gentler and have minimal obstacles, while seasoned pros tackle the most challenging Class V rapids. These six rivers are perfect for any rafting escapade.

Rogue River in Oregon

The Rogue Wild and Scenic River in Oregon
The Rogue Wild and Scenic River in Oregon

Let the Rogue Wild and Scenic River sweep you through some of southern Oregon's most beautiful landscapes. The trek passes by high cliffs, mountain creeks, wildflowers and Rainie Falls and includes an adrenaline-filled experience at Blossom Bar. This is the only Class IV rapid on this stretch of the Rogue River and gets its name from the flowers that bloom in the area every spring.

Snake River in Wyoming

Rafters brace for Lunch Counter Rapids on the Snake River in Wyoming
Rafters brace for Lunch Counter Rapids on the Snake River in Wyoming

Rafting down the Snake River allows you to see parts of Wyoming only visible from the water, with the added excitement of Class II and III rapids. Start your trip near Jackson to go through the Snake River Canyon and hit the famous Big Kahuna and Lunch Counter rapids. If time allows, plan a separate floating trip in Grand Teton National Park. Parts of the Snake River meander through the park, offering stunning scenes of the Tetons and wildlife.

Kennebec River in Maine

Three adults paddle a raft down a river in Maine
Three adults paddle a raft down a river in Maine

This is what people mean when they say "the great outdoors." The Kennebec River winds through pristine wilderness, and it is not unusual to see a bald eagle soaring above the water. Begin your journey below the Harris Station hydroelectric dam, and prepare for mile after exhilarating mile in Class II-IV rapids. Those up for the challenge can plan their excursion around huge water releases from the dam.

Middle Fork Salmon River in Idaho

Rafters on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho
Rafters on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River offers a classic white water rafting experience. The river stretches 97 miles, cutting through Idaho's backcountry and providing phenomenal views of untouched wilderness. Consider a multi-day rafting trip so you can stop and camp on the beaches, enjoy the natural hot springs and spend time wildlife watching.

Gauley River in West Virginia

A group of rafters in the rapids on the Gauley River
A group of rafters in the rapids on the Gauley River

Choose your own adventure on the Gauley River. There are two sections: the Lower Gauley with Class II to IV rapids (great for rafters with some experience under their belt) and the Upper Gauley with five Class V rapids (leave this for the experts). No two runs are the same, but you can always expect to have a raucous time tumbling and crashing through the waves. Rafting season at Gauley River National Recreation Area begins Labor Day weekend and continues for the subsequent six weekends.

Gunnison River in Colorado

The Gunnison River flowing through Black Canyon National Park in Colorado
The Gunnison River flowing through Black Canyon National Park in Colorado

For a not-so-wild ride, consider rafting the Gunnison River from Almont down to Gunnison. The rapids are Class I and II and offer a classic experience through lovely mountain scenery. If you also enjoy kayaking, check out the Gunnison Whitewater Park. Rocks and boulders have been placed strategically in the water to create rapids where visitors can fine tune their maneuvering skills.