Virginia White Water Rafting Not So Unusual

The state of Virginia is known for its history during the Civil War and for being a doorway to the nation’s capital, but little is known about Virginia white water rafting opportunities. The James River by Richmond or rafting on the middle fork of the Flathead river brings a new dimension to Virginia activities.

From the Blue Ridge Mountain in the western part of the state, through the Piedmont region in the center and on to the coastal region on the east, Virginia’s diverse geography offers rafting for every experience level as well as for those looking for a lazy trip down a river or those wanting to know what Virginia white water rafting is all about. Virginia white water rafting trips down the James River, one of the most popular urban rafting trips, is under concessionaire contract with the city of Richmond and as of early 2007, no contract had been approved.

This seven-mile stretch of the river dropping 105 feet boasts Class II to Class IV rapids and will remain a popular Virginia white water rafting destination once a new contract is in place. Still, many rafters take advantage of this exciting run in their own rafts to experience one of the best natural recreation resources the city has to offer.

Virginia White Water Rafting A State Of Mind

With the heady gorges located in West Virginia, the mountains of the Carolinas and Pennsylvania, it may be easy to forget that Virginia white water rafting is available and very popular among those who have experienced it at its best. Class I to Class IV rapids are found on numerous rivers running through the state, but seem to be more prevalent in the western and central regions.

For those who prefer a more quiet experience, Class I Virginia white water rafting is typically easy enough to navigate for the beginner with experienced help usually not needed. It if considered as easy as falling out of a boat, and on Class I runs, getting back into the craft is just as easy. Class II is obviously slightly rougher waters, but with just a little practice should not pose any serious risks to someone who has done it before.

With Class IV rapids, Virginia white water rafting becomes more of a challenge, advised only for those with lots of experience. You will need help getting back in the raft after you do fall out and without experience, steering through some the rough and tumble waves you will experience may be extremely difficult.