Looking for an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure to keep you afloat this summer?! These Pennsylvania whitewater rafting trails are the ones for you! From high-intensity rapids to calmer waters, your aquatic adventures await.
1. Youghiogheny River
Ohiopyle
Length: 74 Miles
Considered almost a rite of passage for those in the whitewater rafting world, the fast-flowing Youghiogheny River (pronounced “yockaGAYney,” or simply “the yock,” for those in the know) is the Mid-Atlantic region’s whitewater rafting capital. From spring through fall, whitewater boaters of all skill levels accept the river’s challenge, with the most experienced tackling the Upper Yough’s adrenaline-pumping Class V rapids complete with narrow twists and turns and heart-stopping drops. The 7.5-mile Lower Yough with its Class III and IV rapids is ideal for those honing their intermediate whitewater skills, while the 11-mile Middle Yough offers a fun ride for all skill levels. Flowing through Ohiopyle State Park, the Youghiogheny is a worthy addition to most everyone’s bucket list, regardless of how you pronounce it!
2. Tohickon Creek
Pipersville
Length: 3.4 Miles
Starting out near Lake Nockamixon in Ralph Stover State Park, Tohickon Creek offers a high-energy, unforgettable ride down to the Delaware River. With six adrenaline-pumping Class II to IV rapids near Allentown that take you on a thrilling journey through the High Rocks cliffs, it is a delightfully challenging adventure. Looking for less intense waters? Other trails along Lake Nockamixon provide some tamer whitewater rafting adventures, as well.
3. Upper Delaware River
Beach Lake
Length: 73.4 Miles
The waters of the Upper Delaware River have a laid-back vibe, offering a calm and relaxed rafting experience with Class I and II rapids. The Delaware is a great option for beginner rafters and younger children, or just float along and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. A part of the National Park System, the Delaware is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the Northeast United States.
4. Slippery Rock Creek
Portersville
Length: 6 Miles
Slippery Rock Creek in the heart of McConnells Mill State Park is a whitewater rafter’s dream destination! Cascading through the spectacular Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, this white water rafting experience near Cleveland offers an intense and exhilarating whitewater rafting experience with its Class II to IV waters, especially in the spring and fall. A National Natural Landmark created by the draining of glacial lakes thousands of years ago, the gorge’s steep sides and huge boulders littering the valley floor provide a simply breathtaking ride.
5. Cowanshannock Creek
Kittanning
Length: 11.7 Miles
After a nice rainfall, the Cowanshannock Creek with its rushing, Class IV rapids can be a great whitewater adventure for the experienced rafter. The creek offers plenty of challenges you just might want to scout out beforehand, including large boulders and other obstructions. Enjoy the ride down the famed Buttermilk Falls then cruise to the Allegheny River as it flows through Kittanning.