Rafting Adventures Dam Release Whitewater
Dam Release Whitewater Rafting in the Lehigh Gorge State Park
You’ll be surrounded by state park protected mountains while enjoying 12 miles and 4-5 hours of Class II, III whitewater rafting and breathtaking scenery. Whitewater adventures with us are fun, thrilling, and memorable. In fact, it’s an adventure that everyone from ages 8 and up can enjoy. Not only will you paddle through 17 sets of rapids, but you’ll also laugh, get wet and have an amazing day outdoors. There is nothing like a whitewater dam release rafting trip on the Lehigh River in Jim Thorpe, PA!
Have children that don’t meet the age criteria?
You could also check out our Family Style Whitewater. Great for families with young children ages 4 and up.
Your adventure doesn’t end on the river! Hit the Rail Trail for a scenic bike ride through the Lehigh Gorge or gear up for an all-out battle at Skirmish Paintball — the largest paintball facility in the world. Call 1-800-944-8392 or visit the links to plan your next thrill.
Dam Release Whitewater Dates
If these dates do not fit your schedule or you are looking for something a little less adventurous, our Family Style Whitewater Rafting Trip is an alternate option.
Dam Release Whitewater Rates
Whitewater Rafting Rates Include
- All necessary whitewater rafting equipment
- Life jacket
- 5 gallon bucket with lid to store your lunch
- Free parking
- Post-trip bonfire
- Change rooms
- Shuttle service to/from the river
- Professional river guides
Rafting Trip FAQ
How many people fit in each raft?
Most of our rafts accommodate 4 to 7 people.
What if my group has fewer than four people?
If you have fewer than four, you may be teamed up with other rafting guests to fill out the raft.
Is lunch provided during the trip?
Lunch is not provided, but you can purchase sub lunches from our Broken Paddle Bar & Grill when you arrive. You will stop for lunch mid-way through your trip.
What if I forget something I need for the trip?
No problem. Our whitewater rafting retail shop carries all the essentials you might have left behind.
Will photos be available from my rafting adventure?
Yes. We take photos on the river and you can purchase them in our store at the end of the day or online at PoconoWhitewaterPhotos.com.
Are water guns allowed on the Dam Release section?
No. Water guns are not permitted on Dam Release Whitewater trips. If you are looking for a milder trip with swimming, splashing, and water gun battles, we recommend our Family Style Whitewater or Pocono Pirate Rafting trips.
What kind of footwear do I need?
Wear shoes that will not fall off, such as old sneakers or water shoes. Bare feet, flip-flops, slides, and slippers are not permitted.
Are there any physical requirements for this trip?
Yes. The Lehigh River is a free-flowing wild river with changing water and weather conditions. You should be healthy and capable of getting back into the raft if you fall out. You must also be comfortable walking for 20 minutes.
Is this trip suitable if I have mobility limitations or extra weight?
If you have a disability or excessive weight that could prevent you from getting back into the raft, we do not recommend this trip.
Are there any language requirements?
Yes. Each raft must have at least one English-speaking adult who can translate safety briefings and directions for others in the raft.
What is the difference between a Dam Release and Natural Flow?
Dam Release means water levels are increased by a scheduled release of water from the Francis E. Walter Dam, which is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These releases are guaranteed based on the amount of water stored behind the dam and create higher, faster-flowing whitewater.
Natural Flow means water levels are provided by rain, runoff, and natural conditions, so trip availability, section, and river conditions are subject to change.
Both Dam Release Dates and Natural Flow can provide an exciting Class II & III whitewater experience, but river conditions can vary from day to day.
I'm brining a bachelor/bachelorette party. Do you offer any lodging packages?
We partner with several local accommodations that are great for bachelor and bachelorette groups! Check out our Lodging Page to explore your options. For larger groups looking to stay together, we especially recommend rental homes such as Poconos Log Cabin and Pocono Barndominium.
Many of our lodging partners can also help arrange activities for your group, making it easy to plan your entire weekend. Start with Pocono Whitewater Rafting, then keep the fun going with our sister companies, Skirmish Paintball or a Pocono Biking adventure on the D&L Trail!
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out before your adventure!
Please bring the credit card used for payment when checking in. If the cardholder won’t be present, contact us in advance to arrange alternative verification.
We do not accept reservations made through third-party booking sites. All bookings must be made directly with us or through our approved lodging partners.
Variety of trips that meet every skill level
Find the right trip for you.
Planning your unique outdoor getaway has never been easier! We have Rafting Adventures for everyone! You’ll find trips for everyone in your family, no experience necessary. From whitewater rafting to combination trips that include biking, hiking and paintball, our staff will help you get the most out of your outdoor experience. Check out all of our adventures below or give us a call at 1.800.WHITEWATER (1-800-944-8392) for more information.
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