Somewhere between White Haven and Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh River stops being scenic and starts being exciting. The water picks up speed. Boulders create chutes and drops. The gorge walls rise steeply on both sides, blocking out everything except sky, rock, and whitewater. You are in the rapid before you know it, and you are either paddling or swimming.
Whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River is one of the Lehigh Valley's best adventure experiences, and it is far more accessible than most people realize.
The River
The Lehigh River runs through Lehigh Gorge State Park in a fifteen mile stretch that concentrates Class I, II, and III rapids. The difficulty level depends on the water release schedule from the Francis E. Walter Dam upstream. On dam release days, the river pumps with volume and the rapids get serious. On natural flow days, the ride is mellower but still engaging.
Most outfitters offer trips ranging from two to five hours, covering different sections of the gorge depending on conditions and group experience level. The scenery along the way is stunning regardless of water level: thick forests, rock outcroppings, waterfalls cascading down the gorge walls, and the occasional bald eagle overhead.
The Outfitters
Five established outfitters operate near Jim Thorpe, and they are all solid. Whitewater Rafting Adventures has been running trips for more than forty five years. Pocono Whitewater has been at it for over forty. Whitewater Challengers has nearly fifty years of experience. Jim Thorpe River Adventures offers multiple trip options including their BigTime package. Luna Rafting takes an eco friendly approach with smaller groups.
All outfitters provide safety briefings, all necessary equipment including life jackets and helmets, and shuttle transportation to and from the put in and take out points. No experience is required for most trips, though the Class III sections demand at least a willingness to follow instructions and paddle when told to paddle.
When to Go
The season runs from May through October. Spring offers the highest water levels and the most exciting rapids, but the water is cold. Summer is the most popular season, with warmer water and a festive atmosphere. Early fall combines pleasant temperatures with fall foliage that makes the gorge feel like a postcard.
Dam release days, typically on weekends, produce the biggest water and the most thrilling rides. Natural flow days are better for families with younger kids or groups looking for a more relaxed experience. Check with your outfitter for the schedule, as release days vary throughout the season.
Jim Thorpe
The town of Jim Thorpe, at the southern end of the gorge, has become a destination in its own right. The Victorian architecture, boutique shops, restaurants, and walkable downtown make it the perfect place to end a day on the river. Grab lunch, browse the shops on Broadway, and let the adrenaline wear off before the drive home.
Jim Thorpe is about an hour from Allentown and Bethlehem. Most Lehigh Valley residents make it a full day trip: morning rafting, afternoon in town.
First Timer Tips
Wear shoes that can get wet. Sneakers or water shoes, not flip flops. Bring sunscreen and apply it before you get on the water, because you will not be applying it mid rapid. Wear synthetic or quick dry clothing, not cotton. Bring a dry change of clothes for the drive home.
Listen to your guide. They have done this thousands of times and they know exactly when to paddle, when to hold on, and when to lean. If you end up in the water, which happens, keep your feet pointed downstream and let the life jacket do its job. You'll be back in the raft before you know it, laughing about it.
The Lehigh River is waiting. Get on it.
