Top 11 Must-Try Rafting Companies

The United States boasts a wide range of rafting companies, each offering unique adventures on the nation’s most scenic rivers. Whether you're seeking a laid-back float or a heart-pounding whitewater thrill, this guide highlights some of the top rafting companies to help you find the perfect experience for your next river adventure.

1. Adventures on the Gorge (West Virginia)

Located near the stunning New River Gorge in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge is a highly acclaimed rafting company that offers thrilling whitewater trips on the New and Gauley Rivers. Known for its challenging Class IV and V rapids, especially during the fall Gauley Season, this company provides an incredible adventure for adrenaline seekers. They also offer family-friendly options on gentler sections of the rivers, making it a great destination for all skill levels.

2. Whitewater Voyages ( California )

If you find yourself on the West Coast or planning a California getaway, don’t miss the chance to tackle the rapids of the iconic Kern River with Whitewater Voyages. Known for its thrilling kern river rafting adventures, the Kern River offers challenges for all skill levels, from family-friendly rapids to adrenaline-pumping whitewater runs.

3. OARS (Idaho)

OARS is a trusted name in the world of whitewater rafting, with over 50 years of experience providing unforgettable trips. While OARS operates in several states, their trips on the Salmon River in Idaho are especially popular. Known as the “River of No Return,” the Salmon offers a thrilling mix of rapids and stunning wilderness, ideal for adventurers looking for both excitement and a connection to nature.

4. Wildwater Rafting (Southeast U.S.)

With multiple locations across the Southeast, including the Chattooga, Nantahala, and Ocoee Rivers, Wildwater Rafting offers some of the best whitewater experiences in the region. Each location provides a different adventure, from the more relaxed Class II and III rapids of the Nantahala to the Olympic-level rapids of the Ocoee. Wildwater is known for its excellent customer service and highly trained guides who ensure a safe and thrilling experience.

5. Raft Maine (Maine)

For those looking for an adventure in the northeastern United States, Raft Maine is the perfect option. This collective of rafting companies offers trips on some of Maine’s most scenic rivers, including the Kennebec, Penobscot, and Dead Rivers. Maine’s rugged wilderness provides the perfect backdrop for exciting Class III-V rapids. Whether you're an experienced rafter or a beginner, Raft Maine provides a thrilling and scenic adventure through the Northeast.

6. ROW Adventures (Montana)

Based in the heart of Big Sky Country, ROW Adventures offers guided rafting trips on Montana’s stunning rivers, including the scenic Lochsa River. Known for its pristine wilderness and thrilling rapids, the Lochsa provides a challenging but rewarding rafting experience. ROW Adventures is also famous for its multi-day rafting and camping trips, where you can immerse yourself in nature while tackling exhilarating Class III and IV rapids.

7. Nantahala Outdoor Center (North Carolina)

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has been a premier rafting destination in the Southeast for nearly 50 years. Based on the Nantahala River in North Carolina, NOC offers rafting trips for all skill levels, from calm, scenic floats to thrilling Class IV rapids. NOC’s location in the beautiful Smoky Mountains makes for an unforgettable experience, with incredible views around every bend.

8. American Adventure Expeditions (Colorado)

Colorado is one of the top destinations for whitewater rafting in the U.S., and American Adventure Expeditions is a standout company in the state. Based near the Arkansas River, this company offers thrilling trips through Colorado’s famous Royal Gorge, Browns Canyon, and other sections of the river. Whether you’re navigating challenging rapids or enjoying the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery, American Adventure Expeditions provides a top-tier rafting experience.

9. Wilderness Voyageurs (Pennsylvania)

For an East Coast adventure, Wilderness Voyageurs is an excellent choice. Based in Pennsylvania, this company offers rafting trips on the Youghiogheny River, where you'll find a variety of rapids from mild Class I-II sections to heart-pounding Class IV-V. Wilderness Voyageurs is known for its experienced guides and attention to detail, ensuring a safe and exciting experience for everyone.

10. Nantahala Rafting with Fast Rivers (North Carolina)

Also based in North Carolina, Nantahala Rafting with Fast Rivers offers an intimate and personalized rafting experience on the scenic Nantahala River. This family-owned company has built a reputation for excellent customer service, offering guided and unguided trips that cater to both beginners and seasoned rafters. The Nantahala River’s cool, clear waters and Class II-III rapids make it a perfect choice for families and first-timers.

11. Montana Whitewater (Montana)

Located near Yellowstone National Park, Montana Whitewater offers thrilling rafting trips on the Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone Rivers. Each river offers something different, from exciting rapids on the Gallatin to scenic floats on the Yellowstone. With breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife, Montana Whitewater provides a true outdoor adventure that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Northern Rockies.

Top-Rated Rafting Companies

No matter where you are in the United States, there’s likely a top-rated rafting company nearby that can introduce you to the thrill of whitewater rafting. From the roaring rapids of West Virginia’s Gauley River to the wild rivers of Idaho and the scenic waterways of Maine, the U.S. is filled with incredible rafting opportunities for adventurers of all skill levels.