James River, Virginia
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Rafting on the James River in Richmond, Virginia
(Scott K. Brown/courtesy, Virginia Tourism Corporation)
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Sure, the Maury, which is part of James River watershed, can hit a passionate Class IV. But for the most part this is a world of easy rapids—great for beginners who are looking to build confidence. Strap a boat onto your car top and noodle around the James' languid rural curves and eddies. Closer to Richmond, the James gifts paddlers with a surprisingly boisterous series of Class III-IV whitewater that cuts straight through downtown. The river here owes its whitewater chops to the geologic shift between the lofty plates of the Appalachian Mountains and lower Atlantic coastal plan. The river's resulting waves, ledges, and drops make for a convenient entryway into the fun world of river rafting. Currently the only operator offering guided trips on the James is Richmond-based Riverside Outfitters (www.riversideoutfitters.net).
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
