Adirondack River Outfitters: Whitewater Rafting in Upstate NY

The spray of the chilly water, the teeter-tottering of the boat, the insatiable laughter of your crew–there's something so exciting about whitewater rafting. Rated as one of the top ten whitewater rafting trips in the U.S., New York is one of the best states to experience whitewater rafting. 

We’ve taken care of the planning and given you all the deets along with a special focus on one of the best rafting experiences in the state. Read on brave adventurer!

Why is Whitewater Rafting So Fun?

Aside from the badge of pride you’ll wear when you save your friend from falling out of the boat, whitewater rafting is very enjoyable. Here’s why…

Outdoor Beauty

Whitewater rafting is a great way to enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in an exciting outdoor adventure. With the state’s bustling cityscapes, rolling hills, and rushing rapids, New York’s landscape is a feast for the eyes, beckoning to be traversed. This makes it one of the best places to go rafting.

Rafting also allows you to leave the digital hoopla behind and go offline for a few hours. So, save the update and enjoy your ‘do not disturb’ afternoon outdoors.

Fun For All

The rush of whitewater rafting is an exhilarating experience that knows no bounds, embracing adventurers of all abilities and skill levels. Luckily, rafting can be a casual experience or as intense as you’d like.

For children or guests with disabilities, sitting in the middle of the raft is a nice, passive option that still provides a fun experience.

However, if you want something to write home about, you’ll want to sit in the front of the raft. No matter what your group looks like, whitewater rafting can cater to all types of people.

Quality Time

Some people act differently when their adrenaline gets going and the blood starts pumping. Will your cool-tempered dad begin to panic when he spots the class IV rapids ahead? Let’s find out and take some pictures while we’re at it!

Whether it's a family reunion, girl’s trip, scouts adventure, or friend’s getaway, the hours spent on the water will bring you closer than before. It's a unique experience that develops teamwork, and problem-solving in a fun setting.

Types of Rapids

Whitewater rapids are classified on a scale from Class I (easiest) to Class VI (most difficult) based on the river's elements and the skill level required to raft them. Here are some general characteristics of each class:

Class I - Comfortable floating with slow, moving water over a shallow riverbed. Few or no obstructions.

Class II - Small channels with small-medium waves. Some maneuvering might be required.

Class III - Powerful, medium-large rapids, requiring some technical skill and precise maneuvering.

Class IV - Large, irregularly-sized, turbulent waves, constricted passages, and big drops. Class IV rapids are best for adventurous beginners and returning rafters.

Class V - Huge rapids that are difficult to avoid with strong waves, constant obstacles, whirlpools, fast currents, and steep waterfalls.

The Development of ARO

So, you’re convinced whitewater rafting HAS to happen next time you're in the area, but where do you go? There’s nobody better to trust your time and safety to than the Adirondack River Outfitters. 

Beginning as humble adventure seekers who loved exploring the great outdoors, ARO’s story started with single trips on the water. When they first started rafting, they didn’t realize Moose River had some of the best rapids in the Eastern U.S. 

As their skills and expertise developed, ARO committed to making this experience available to the public. With three major rivers nearby, the guides at ARO have experienced every type of whitewater situation and are among the best. 

What’s Included in Your Experience?

• Licensed guide in each raft
• Helmets
• Life jackets
• Paddles
• Snack on the river
• Wetsuits and/or splash jackets
  

Adirondack River Outfitters

ARO has been New York State’s leading whitewater company for thirty-eight years and practically pioneered whitewater rafting of the Black River. ARO offers multiple packages depending on which river you want to explore, the intensity of the rapids, and the season. Let’s take a look at their packages:

Hudson River Rafting

The Hudson River is the crème de la crème of whitewater rafting, no joke! The river is one of the top places to whitewater raft in the Nation. If you want to raft on the Hudson, check out ARO’s package.



Ages: April: 18+ | May: 12+ | Summer: 7+

Rapid Class: Class 3 - 5 rapids

Groups: Discounts are available for groups of 12+ 

Check their website for more details.

Moose River Rafting

After a long winter’s nap, the Moose River is reborn in the spring with an intensity that AOR describes as, “slam-dancing with Mother Nature”. We aren’t kidding, and even the most skilled rafter might have a challenge navigating these rapids. This trip is 13 miles long and runs from McKeever NY to Fowlersville NY. Frigid water and big drops make this ARO’s most challenging river (on average).

Duration: 6 hours

Ages: 18+

Rapid Class: Class 4 - 5 rapids

Groups: Discounts are available for groups of 12+ 

Check their website for more details.

Black River Rafting

The Black River flows from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Ontario in north-central New York State. High in the Adirondacks, a reliable flow of water is released from dams and surges into the river’s gorge, plunging over boulders and cliffs. The narrow gorge of the Black River constricts the flow of water increasing its velocity and magnifying the intensity and excitement. 

Duration: 3.5 hours

Ages: May & June 14+ & Summer 12+

Rapid Class: Class 3 - 4+ rapids

Groups: Discounts are available for groups of 12+ 

Check their website for more details.

Vacation Planning at The Covewood Lodge

Many of the guests who visit Adirondack River Outfitters stay in Old Forge or nearby. The Adirondack Mountains provide the perfect outdoor backdrop for the best vacation and when you’re not on the water you can enjoy nearby hiking, boating, biking, and more. 

Come stay at the Covewood Lodge located 13 minutes from Old Forge and let us provide the perfect vacation. Our historic main lodge and cottages embrace the rustic comfort of the Adirondack lifestyle. We host guests of all ages to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beautiful mountain landscapes. Come see us!