Top Destinations for Whitewater Rafting Adventures in the USA

Whitewater rafting is one of the most amazing outdoor adventures you can experience. Whether you’re navigating rushing rapids or drifting through calm waters surrounded by breathtaking scenery, rafting offers an unforgettable mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. While we may be a little biased and believe the Kern River is the ultimate rafting destination, there are countless other spectacular spots across the country where you can dive into the rapids and feel the thrill of the river.

In this guide, we've compiled a list of 12 breathtaking locations in the USA where you can go whitewater rafting. Each of these rivers offers something unique, from scenic views to heart-pounding rapids, making them perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

1. Colorado River, Arizona

When you think of iconic American rivers, the Colorado River often comes to mind. Rafting through the Grand Canyon offers some of the most epic scenery on the planet. You'll not only tackle thrilling rapids, but you’ll also witness the awe-inspiring geological formations that make the Grand Canyon a world wonder. The Colorado River’s rapids range from moderate to intense, making it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned rafters.

2. Kern River, California

The Kern River is a must-visit for any rafting enthusiast, known for its exciting rapids and stunning scenery. Flowing through the Sierra Nevada mountains, the river offers a mix of calm stretches and adrenaline-pumping rapids, making it ideal for both families and thrill-seekers. With Class II to Class V rapids, the Kern River provides a wide range of rafting experiences. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic gorges, lush forests, and rocky outcroppings, all while enjoying California’s natural beauty. This river is a favorite among rafters for its accessibility and diverse challenges, ensuring every trip is memorable.

3. Salmon River, Idaho

Known as the “River of No Return,” the Salmon River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the United States. It offers everything from thrilling Class III and IV rapids to peaceful stretches where you can take in the beautiful surroundings of the Frank Church Wilderness. Wildlife like bears, deer, and eagles can often be spotted along the way, making this a wilderness adventure you won't forget.

4. Gauley River, West Virginia

The Gauley River is famous among whitewater enthusiasts for its intense rapids, especially during the fall “Gauley Season” when water is released from the Summersville Dam. With Class V rapids, this river is not for the faint of heart. If you’re an experienced rafter looking for a challenge, the Gauley River’s powerful rapids and rugged landscape will certainly deliver.

5. Arkansas River, Colorado

Flowing through Colorado's Rocky Mountains, the Arkansas River is one of the most popular rafting destinations in the country. The river offers a range of rapids, from beginner-friendly Class II to challenging Class IV, making it a versatile option for rafters of all skill levels. As you navigate the river, you’ll be treated to stunning views of alpine scenery, canyons, and wildlife.

6. Chattooga River, Georgia/South Carolina

For a mix of adventure and history, the Chattooga River is a must. This river runs along the border of Georgia and South Carolina and is known for its remote, wild feel. The Chattooga gained fame as the filming location for the movie Deliverance, and its challenging rapids—ranging from Class II to Class V—make it one of the premier whitewater rafting destinations in the Southeast.

7. Ocoee River, Tennessee

The Ocoee River is famous for hosting the whitewater events of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and it remains a top spot for rafting today. Located in the Tennessee hills, the Ocoee features continuous rapids and offers rafters exciting Class III and IV whitewater throughout the season. It’s perfect for adventurous first-timers and experienced rafters alike.

8. Rogue River, Oregon

The Rogue River in Oregon is one of the original eight rivers designated in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968, and it’s easy to see why. The river offers a perfect blend of exciting rapids and scenic beauty, flowing through deep forests and canyons. The Rogue River is a favorite for multi-day trips, where you can enjoy both adrenaline-pumping rapids and peaceful camping under the stars.

9. Youghiogheny River, Pennsylvania

The Youghiogheny, or “Yough” for short, flows through the Appalachian Mountains and offers a wide range of rafting experiences. The Upper Yough is known for its challenging Class IV and V rapids, while the Middle Yough is more family-friendly, with gentle Class I and II rapids. This versatility makes the Yough a great option for both novices and experienced rafters.

10. American River, California

The American River, just outside of Sacramento, offers a variety of rafting options for all skill levels. The South Fork is perfect for beginners and families with its Class II and III rapids, while the North Fork offers more challenging Class IV rapids for experienced thrill-seekers. Plus, the American River flows through the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills, offering stunning views around every bend.

11. Nantahala River, North Carolina

The Nantahala River is a popular rafting destination in the Smoky Mountains, known for its scenic beauty and moderate rapids. With mostly Class II and III rapids, the Nantahala is perfect for families or beginners looking for a fun and scenic introduction to whitewater rafting. The cool mountain water and lush surroundings make this a relaxing yet exciting adventure.

12. Deschutes River, Oregon

For rafters looking for a combination of thrills and relaxation, the Deschutes River in central Oregon is a great choice. The Deschutes offers exciting Class III and IV rapids, along with calmer sections where you can enjoy the high desert scenery. It's also a popular spot for multi-day trips, where you can camp along the riverbanks and fully immerse yourself in the wilderness.

13. New River, West Virginia

One of the oldest rivers in the world, the New River offers a variety of rafting experiences, from calm stretches to intense Class IV and V rapids. Rafting through the New River Gorge provides spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs and forests, and the rapids offer plenty of thrills for adventure seekers. The New River is also easily accessible, making it a popular spot for day trips.

Where will your next whitewater rafting trip take you?

Did we miss a spot that deserves to be on this list? Let us know! While the Kern River stands out as one of the top whitewater rafting destinations, the U.S. is packed with amazing rivers that offer unforgettable adventures.

If you're ready to take on the Kern River’s rapids and soak in its natural beauty, explore the Kern river rafting trips offered by Whitewater Voyages. Your next adventure awaits—see you on the river!