The lower seven miles of the Shenandoah River upstream of Harpers Ferry is a chief destination for whitewater rafting in northern West Virginia. Like the adjacent Potomac River, the Shenandoah is among the most gentle whitewater streams in the Mountain State and draws rafters in search of a technical whitewater experience though without extreme conditions. Its most difficult rapids are rated no higher than Class III.
The Shenandoah carries enough water to support rafting year-round, as opposed to the Potomac, which runs shallow by mid-summer. Raft trips on the Shenandoah generally last from two to three hours, depending upon the rate of stream flow.
Lodging near Shenandoah River Rafting
Rafting Area Location
The Shenandoah River whitewater rafting area is located in the Eastern Panhandle Region of eastern West Virginia. Further information on lodging, dining, travel, and recreation may be found by exploring the regional information.
Map of Shenandoah Rafting Area
Expeditions through the Shenandoah River most often launch at the community of Millville and end above the US-340 bridge off Sandy Hook Road in Maryland. Outfitters then transport rafters back to base camps.
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