2020-12-05 06:12:41
When the heat of summer days comes blazing, there’s nothing like heading down to the river for a day of fun in the sun. Take your pick from more than 83,000 miles of river winding through Pennsylvania, whether you’re wishing for a fast-paced whitewater thrill or a lazy float on an inner tube. Many waterway segments have been developed as official Pennsylvania Water Trails (nine of which are part of the National Recreation Trails program), offering planned routes, easy access points, and dayuse sites ideal for self-paced trips. But if you’d rather let someone else do the planning, thankfully, there’s no shortage of outfitters and experienced guides ready to show you Pennsylvania’s best river adventures. In southwestern Pennsylvania, don’t miss a trip down the Youghiogheny River, known for its thrilling whitewater rapids, especially along the Lower Yough: the popular stretch of water from Ohiopyle Falls to the Bruner Run take-out. Explore this famous route on a guided rafting tour with White Water Adventurers in Ohiopyle, which will take you on a rip-roaring ride down 7.5 miles of river, navigating through Class III and IV rapids. In eastern Pennsylvania, paddle your way along the Lehigh River in Lehigh Gorge State Park, where you’ll glide through the steep walls of a dramatic gorge, taking in awe-inspiring views of lush forests all along the way. The water flow is controlled by the Francis E. Walter Dam, and scheduled water releases ensure a thrilling ride every time. Reserve your spot on a Dam Release Whitewater tour with Pocono Whitewater in Jim Thorpe for a guided 4- to 5-hour ride along 12 miles of Class II and III whitewater. Anyone over the age of 9 is welcome, making it an ideal adventure for families with older kids and teens. If you’re short on time, the Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers in Weatherly offers 3- to 4-hour dam release whitewater rafting trips. In northern Pennsylvania, paddle through the spectacular Pine Creek Gorge when you book an all-day guided excursion with Pine Creek Outfitters in Wellsboro. You’ll paddle 17 miles through Class II and III rapids, stop at the canyon’s midway point for a hearty buffet lunch, and then ride the shuttle back to your car. Along the northern edge of the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border, bring the whole family for an easy paddle trip through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area when you rent kayaks or canoes from Edge of the Woods Outfitters in Delaware Water Gap. The self-guided, 6-mile trip from Smithfield Beach to Kittatinny Point boasts mountain views and plenty of opportunities to stop along the way for swimming, fishing, and picnicking on the shoreline. Dreaming of something even slower paced? At Coal Tubin’ Adventures, rent a premium inner tube—we’re talking backrests and cup holders—and float down scenic Stonycreek River, which runs alongside the historic city of Johnstown. Or, rent a single or a double inner tube from Pale Whale Canoe Fleet in Cooksburg for an easy float down the Clarion River. Stay Near the Water BUTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND Mifflintown Pitch a tent or bring your RV to this campground on the Juniata River, and enjoy amenities like river tubing, horseshoes, minigolf, and laser tag. buttonwoodcamp.com FOREST RIDGE CABINS AND CAMPGROUNDS Marienville Book a mountain cabin just minutes from the Clarion River. After a long day rafting, kick back by a bonfire or in your own private hot tub. forestridgecabins.com PADDLER’S LANE RETREAT Confluence Plush accommodations await at this bed and breakfast near Ohiopyle, Enjoy a hot breakfast, direct river access, outdoor fire pits, and boat parking. paddlerslane.com THE INN AT JIM THORPE Jim Thorpe Steps from the Lehigh River, retreat to this historic hotel offering old-world charm and modern comforts (including an onsite spa). innjt.com HARTZELL HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST Addison Casual luxury and the nearby Youghiogheny River Lake are the draw here. After a day outdoors, relax by the fire pit with wine or s’mores. hartzellhouse.com
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River Running
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