whitewater kayaking trip patagonia

Active, Authentic & Sustainable Travel in South America

• Futaleufú Whitewater & Multisport

Adrenaline and adventure in stunning Patagonia scenery.

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Futaleufú Whitewater & Multisport Trip Highlights

• Raft the world-class turquoise waters of the Futaleufu and its tributaries
• Enjoy an exciting biathalon ‘saddle and paddle’ day in which you’ll horseback ride through pristine wilderness to where you’ll descend by inflatable kayak or raft
• Stay perched above the river in a safari – style basecamp and relax with massage, hot tub, and riverside bar after your day of adventure
• Take advantage of multisport opportunities and go mountain biking, fly fishing, hiking, kayaking and do yoga
• Run the Inferno Canyon and master the Fu on summit day, recognized as one of the world’s best stretches of whitewater

Itinerary Overview

Patagonia’s Rio Futaleufu offers some of the most stunning scenery and exciting whitewater in the world. This multisport adventure combines world-class whitewater rafting with opportunities to mountain bike, horseback ride, kayak, hike, fly fish, and do yoga. Spend your evenings with gourmet cuisine, massage, bonfires, riverside hot tubbing and more at your safari-style, luxury basecamp.

DAY 1  • San Carlos de Bariloche

Arrive to Bariloche. Shop for Argentinian leather goods, visit sidewalk cafes and walk the lake-front before a welcome dinner and trip briefing.

DAY 2 • Overland Andes Crossing

Drive over the Andes and cross the remote border post into Chile. Vast grasslands give way to temperate rainforest, turquoise rivers, and aquamarine lakes. Arrive to basecamp along the shores of the Futaleufu River.

DAY 3 • Futaleufu

Warm up and practice rafting session on the upper Futaleufu with continuous stretches of whitewater. Try fly fishing or hiking in the afternoon.

DAY 4 • Futaleufu

Journey further down river and raft vast sections of class 4 waters. For those who choose, have a taste of class 5 whitewater as well. Return to basecamp for a massage and a soak in the hot tub.

DAY 5 • Futaleufu

Captain your own inflatable kayak or guided mini-raft down the class 2 and 3 rapids of Rio Espolon, and, if you’re still energized, mountain bike through the forest back to camp. For dinner indulge in a traditional Patagonian barbeque.

DAY 6 • Futaleufu

Horseback ride through the pristine Rio Azul Valley at the foot of the Andes. Ride back after lunch or trade in the saddle for a paddle and raft down class 3 and 4 Río Azul.

DAY 7 • Futaleufu

Raft the exciting Inferno Canyon section of the Futaleufu and enjoy a comprehensive tasting of Chile’s finest wines in the evening.

DAY 8 • Futaleufu

Summit Day! Raft what is often considered the best day of whitewater in the world. Pull off at basecamp for lunch before continuing downriver on this incredible marathon day of rafting.

DAY 9 • Futaleufu to San Carlson de Bariloche

Depart from Bariloche.

Is It For Me?

An exciting multisport trip on the banks of the mighty Futaleufu combining whitewater rafting with kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fly fishing and yoga. Ideal for experienced rafters as well as novices looking to improve their skills.

Knowmad has vast knowledge and operations in Chile; this is a private trip and we are happy to modify excursions, accommodations, and the flow of the itinerary to perfectly suit your travel style and interests.

Have questions? Talk to an expert: 612-315-2894

Important info.

• $4,200 per person / 2 travelers 

Rates quoted are per traveler, based on sharing double accommodations.

• $175 single supplement – If you request single accommodations you are required to pay the single supplement. If you are a single traveler and would like to be paired with a traveler of the same gender, Knowmad Adventures will try to accommodate this and, if we are able, will refund the single supplement following the trip.

Type Fixed date group trip, departures available between December and March

Moderate trip Activities are flexible and can include rafting, kayaking, biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, yoga, & cultural opportunities

DEPARTURES Fixed date departures weekly between December and March. Inquire for specific start/end dates.

Length 9 days              Begin / end  Bariloche, Argentina

INTERNATIONAL Airfare is not included in the land cost of our trips. For reservations we recommend you contact the airlines directly. Also, web search databases such as www.kayak.com and www.priceline.com can be helpful to do preliminary searches in order to identify which carriers may have the best fares, however we strongly recommend then calling and booking directly with the airline.

REGIONAL  Adventures can arrange your regional airfare. Roundtrip flights from Buenos Aires to San Carlos de Bariloche fluctuate based on the time of purchase and flight dates. If you would like to arrange your own regional flights, please consult us prior so we can verify the departure and arrival times.

What's Next?

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Signing up is easy. Call us at 612-315-2894 or email [email protected] and reserve your spot. Or simply download our registration form , fill it out, and send it back to us along with your trip deposit. Please refer to registration form for terms & conditions.

Weather & When to Go to the Futaleufú River Valley

One may experience many different weather patterns in the Futaleufú River valley including frequent storms off the Pacific. This also means that the river level can change dramatically if an unseasonable tormenta or rain storm passes through. We raft only on days when the river is at a safe level. The sunny months are usually December through March. Temperatures typically average around 70 degrees farenheit during our season of operation, but range widely.

Prior to your departure, you are provided a detailed pre-trip information packet including a recommended pack list, information about the regions you’ll be visiting, suggested readings, up-to-date health information including any recommended vaccinations and more.

Accommodations

Accommodations featured in this itinerary are the following:

• Vill Huinid  located in Bariloche, Argentina
• Adventure Spa Basecamp located in Patagonia, Chile

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1  San Carlos de Bariloche

After arriving to the San Carlos de Bariloche airport from Buenos Aires, a Knowmad Adventures representative will meet you at the Bariloche airport and escort you to the “Switzerland of the South” that lies on Lake Nahuel Huapi. Check in to a lovely hotel with lake views located within walking distance of town. Your afternoon can be spent swimming, walking around town, shopping for Argentina’s famous leather goods, sampling Bariloche’s delicious chocolate or going for a walk along the lakefront. There is also an option to go for a longer hike near Bariloche’s ski resort. In the evening we will gather for a group welcome dinner at one of our favorite restaurants where you can indulge in an Argentinean steak off the parilla while getting to know your guides and fellow adventurers. After the short flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas, Patagonia, transfer from the airport to Hotel Rey Don Felipe (www.hotelreydonfelipe.com). Enjoy a welcome dinner while your trip leader briefs the group.

• D – Vill Huinid

DAY 2 Overland Andes Crossing

After breakfast we will board our private vehicles and begin the drive south to the Futaleufu as it flows into Chile. This is a beautiful drive down the east side of the Andes and is nothing short of breath taking! We will drive through the frontier gaucho towns of Esquel and Trevelin that were settled a century ago by Welsh farmers. This region of Patagonia was made famous by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid! The terrain alternates between lush forest and emerald green valleys, aquamarine lakes, and the windswept plains of the Patagonian steppe. In the afternoon we will reach the remote, rugged outpost that serves as the border between Argentina and Chile where you will get another stamp in your passport as we enter Chile. The dry, rugged scenery of the Andean rain shadow quickly gives way to lush, green temperate rainforest as we get our first glimpse of the Futaleufu River and then follow it downstream to our multisport Adventure Base Camp. On the way to camp, we pass a few farms that are carved into the ancient rain forest allowing us a glimpse of frontier living, Chileno style. We arrive at the Base Camp where your private tent bungalow on a raised platform, complete with river views and comfortable beds, will be waiting for you. Our enthusiastic guides will lead you to your sweet new “home away from home” on the river! After a short hike or a swim, you may want to soak in the riverside hot tub or enjoy a hot shower. Then, we gather in the sunset bar for our first welcome happy hour. We will introduce the entire crew and go over the week’s agenda. After happy hour, a hearty dinner will be served. It does tend to cool down quite a bit when the sun sets below the peaks so we dress warmly in the evenings.

• B, L, D – Adventure Spa Basecamp

DAY 3   Futaleufu

Awaken on the banks of the Fu and enjoy your first morning in camp! We rise with the warmth of the sun and have breakfast around 9 am. A pre-breakfast yoga class is available on our customized yoga platform with river views! Mornings tend to be crisp so prepare to dress warmly – a fleece is perfect. Today is a river day. We will launch our rafts from base camp after a thorough safety briefing. In a safe ‘eddy’, a short distance downstream, we’ll do a set of practice rescue drills. This allows the crew in each raft to hone their skills and prepare to raft as a team.

We use a cataraft combined with ace safety-kayakers as part of our “safety net.” Each raft is captained by a highly trained and intuitive river guide, who guides the boat from a stern-mounted oar frame. Guiding with oars does not detract from the paddling experience. The advantage to the oar frame is greater control in pointing the bow straight through holes and 15-foot high “haystack” wave trains. High siding is also an actively used “paddle” command. This style is consistent with any high volume, strong current river where rapids graded 4 to 5-plus rage on. This is the Futaleufú!

The first section that we raft, from camp down to Puente Futaleufú (the Futaleufú Bridge), is only 10 km, but offers more rapids per 1000 meters than anywhere else on the river. It is the perfect warm-up run and it is non-stop fun! The rapids of note are “El Cojín”, the Cushion, and “Mundaca”, a local family name.

At take-out, we meet our vehicles for a 20-minute ride back to camp. Those who would prefer a “lower body” workout to complement their paddling are welcome to run back or ride one of our mountain bikes from take-out to camp. When we get to camp, you can choose to go fly-fishing, try out a kayak, practice yoga, nap in a hammock, enjoy the sauna, have a massage, go for a hike, or soak in the hot tub. Taking a hot shower, either indoors or under the big sky, feels very luxurious while camping in the remote wilderness of the northern Patagonia! Of course, for the hardy, the river provides a cold bath and refreshing swim.

As the sun sinks behind the mountains, enjoy a game of chess or cards at the sunset bar. Every late afternoon is “Happy Hour” with an open bar stocked with beer, wine, soda, and fresh juice. Then, we gather together in the open-air kitchen/dining area, the “Galpon”, for a candlelight sit-down dinner featuring fresh locally grown produce and fresh-baked breads. After dinner, enjoy the campfire and the stars before retiring to your cozy tent on your private platform. The sound of the river will lull you to sleep and send you off dreaming of the next day of adventure in Chile.

• B, L, D – Adventure Spa Basecamp 

DAY 4 Futaleufu

Officially day two of our rafting extravaganza, our aim is to settle into a river rhythm that will be utilized in order to successfully raft the next few sections the Fu. After breakfast, we will launch our rafts from camp and have lunch on the river. After we pass the Puente Futaleufú (yesterday’s take-out), we immediately round the corner to meet a big stomping continuous cascade of waves known as “Mas o Menos”, translated, “More or Less”. This is a good stepping-stone towards our first true blue class V technical rapid, “Casa de Piedra” (House of Rock) which is right around the next corner.

We will get out of our rafts to scout this massive rapid from the banks of the Fu before making our thrilling descent. Note that running class V rapids is not mandatory and can be subverted for those not wishing to run them.

After this rapid, we will run the remaining class 3 and 4 rapids as our hearts resume beating at their normal rates. We will drift into a nice long calm section that offers perfect fishing from the rafts aswell as a great place to get into some hard shell kayaks. The next three miles we will have a floating happy hour and reach our take out spot just above Lago Yelcho. Upon return to camp, we will continue to celebrate the day, enjoy the spa and get ready for another fabulous dinner prepared by our jovial crew and talented chef.

DAY 5  Futaleufu

Today we become experts at navigating our very own river crafts, known as inflatable kayaks or IK’s. If there is interest, before we paddle we will have a chance to stroll around the quaint little town of Futaleufú.

We venture up canyon to the source of the Rio Espolon as it cascades out of the Lago Espolón to find gin clear water and gentle class 2 and 3 rapids that offer a perfect learning opportunity to become a great captain of your own boat. There is something deeply satisfying paddling your own boat down river, knowing that your destiny is in your own hands. Of course our highly trained guides will be there to coach you, watch over you and provide safety should you need to be rescued. Or if you’d like you can join a guide on a miniature raft known as a pickle boat for an exciting ride along with a guide. The Rio Espolon is one of the major tributaries to the Futaleufu river and flows into the Fu right above the Inferno canyon which is where we take-out in the early afternoon. For those ready to try out a hard shell kayak, this is the perfect class 2-3 river to do it on!

DAY 6  Futaleufu

Surf and Turf up and down the Rio Azul valley! After breakfast we take a short drive to the stables where we will find our trusty steeds saddled up and ready for adventurous riding. After a safety briefing, we ride alongside local gauchos and our own river guides who will gladly join the posse up a glorious, pristine side valley where the Rio Azul flows unhindered from its glacial headwaters. After a 3 hour ride, we stop for a picnic lunch and then trade in our saddles for paddles to test our talents on the challenging and fun Class 3 and 4 Rio Azul, a significant step up in difficulty from the Rio Espolon. This is a full biathlon day and you will be glad to return to camp, enjoy the soothing hot tub, a cold beer or glass of wine as you wait your turn to get a well deserved massage! Night six is also a likely candidate for our wine tasting which will gives you a fantastic overview of the best South American wines.

DAY 7  Futaleufu

We will have an early breakfast in camp then travel 25 kilometers up the road to Rio Espolon to launch our rafts for the Inferno Canyon day! On the Rio Espolon we have a chance to warm up on this low volume river before it joins and helps form the mighty Futaleufu as it gets squeezed into the narrow Inferno canyon. This upper canyon requires aggressive class V paddling and is potentially the most intense section of white water on the river. Many other options exist for those who choose not to participate in Inferno Canyon.

Five distinct rapids form a narrow sinuous river passage creating a wet surge and a “full on” adrenaline rush. As we come out of “Exit”, the last rapid, we enter into a long calm. The current remains swift and we cruise many miles downstream arriving at the mandatory portage around the fierce “Zeta” rapid. We have lunch on the rocks as the crew “ghost” boats the rafts through this treacherous rapid.

After lunch, our first obstacle is “Throne Room,” a class V+ rapid for kayaks, a ghost boat rapid for rafts. By walking around this rapid, we get a great bird’s eye view of an almost ‘river wide’ hole that could destroy a raft. Back on board our rafts, we are dealt a Royal Flush; a continuous class IV corridor of rapids does not let up until we get to our take-out spot at the Rio Azul footbridge. The rafts are left for the night, tethered on shore.

Early evening is spent in camp getting ready for the evening festivities. Blanca and her partner Umberto, locals from a nearby farm, cook a very special treat for us. They merrily prepare a delicious dinner called “Curanto” that is typical of the south of Chile and the island of Chiloe. We spend the evening by the bonfire on the beach singing and dancing the night away.

DAY 8  Futaleufu

Today, we must be mentally and physically well prepared for the river. We call it the “summit day” as we aim to top our already great paddling days with the best day of white water in the world. After a nutritious breakfast, we head up river to the footbridge where we left the rafts yesterday. As our day on the river begins, the blue glacial run-off from the Rio Azul River merges into the Fu from the right. The views of the snow capped mountain peaks and jagged ridges of the mountain “Las Tres Monjas” (translated, “the three Nuns”) are absolutely breathtaking. A six-kilometer stretch of warm-up rapids leads us to the longest and toughest rapid that we will raft, “The Terminator.” We scout and study our line, then we take the plunge and drop in. “Left turn, right turn, dig it in —

hard forward!” are a few of the commands that might be heard. The next three miles are non-stop rapids. After an aerobic workout, we pump through the enormous haystack wave train known as the “Himalayas”.

Just when we need it, a calm returns and we float gently into lunch, served at our base camp. After lunch, we return to the river to complete the last task for the day, tackling as much white water as possible. We raft the whole section of river from camp to below Casa de Piedra. At take-out, cold beers and tea are waiting. We make a triumphant return to camp to celebrate our days spent exploring the Futaleufú Valley and its majestic river.

For the evening’s festivities, Rolando and Nelli will prepare a typical Chilean asado — lamb roasted over a bed of coals, ensalada, potatoes and farm fresh bread. We toast the river and give thanks for our safe passage. Under a bright starry sky, we will spend our last night together as a group on the banks of the mighty Fu with the guides and crew.

DAY 9  Futaleufu to San Carlson de Bariloche

We start early today. After loading up your personal gear, our bus and transport will take you to Bariloche or Esquell to catch your flight to Buenos Aires. An evening or following day flight returns you to Buenos Aires. If you wish to spend a day or two learning tango and exploring the city we are happy to make arrangements for a trip extension.

We hope that when you board the airplane you will look back upon your time in Patagonia and think of the friends you have made and the beauty of the Futaleufú River and Patagonian wilderness. Ciao amigos. Ciao Ciao Chile.

Extend Your Adventure

Wine Country

Bike from vineyard to vineyard on gentle country roads, tour the cellars, taste fine wines, eat gourmet cuisine and stay in charming boutique hotels. With premier wine growing valleys just an hour from Santiago, a few days in wine country is an ideal extension to your adventure and a good example of the diversity of landscapes and lifestyles within Chile.

• Atacama Desert

Looking for unique? Earth’s closest thing to Mars, Atacama will not disappoint. Your trip to this surreal landscape offers countless cultural and adventure excursions to choose from during the day, while spending nights in a true oasis, the Tierra Atacama boutique hotel and spa. Return for a dip in the pool and enjoy a local cabernet with gourmet cuisine. Don’t forget to take advantage of the world’s best moonscape and stargazing. 

• Easter Island

A tropical paradise with history, culture and mystery at every beautiful turn, a visit to Easter Island – the world’s most isolated speck of land – will captivate any traveler. Meander through the picturesque countryside dotted with volcanoes, and learn about the mysterious Moai statues erected by the original Polynesian tribes who inhabited the island. Still today little is known about the statues or their creators. While circumnavigating the island on visits to the diverse Moai sites, you’ll have opportunities to relax on deserted, white-sand beaches, explore volcanic caves with petroglyphs and walk the rim of a seaside volcano. 

Let The Journey Begin

Planning a trip to South America might seem a little overwhelming at first. Knowmad offers door-to-door trip planning: first, we listen, and then we help you navigate the seasonal differences and itinerary options, resulting in a holistic, seamless, and custom-crafted experience, all at a guaranteed best value.

The simplest way to get started is to give us a call at 612-315-2894 or to fill out this short form so we can learn more about your travel preferences.

Customize This Trip

Like what you're seeing but want to make the itinerary a little more you? It's easy!

Give us a call 612-315-2894

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Or fill out this simple form online and we'll get back to you.

Info On Chile

• Travel Planning Process
• Weather & When To Go
• Frequently Asked Questions

Chile Trip Ideas

• Knowmad’s Top Trip Picks for Chile
• Argentina + Chile Adventure
• Chile’s Iconic Extremes: Patagonia + Atacama Desert
• Luxury Chile Adventure: Patagonia, Valparaiso & Vineyards
• Patagonia Cruise: Fjords at the End of the World
• Torres Del Paine Explorer
• Luxury Chile Tour: Patagonia, Easter Island, Wine Country and Coast
• Southern Patagonia
• Patagonia Lodge to Lodge Hiker
• Estancias of Patagonia by Horseback
• Explora Patagonia Lodge
• Awasi Patagonia Lodge
• Northern Patagonia & Lakes District
• Fly Fishing the Patagonia
• Central Chile
• Countryside, Culture & Coast
• Walking South America’s Vineyards
• Ski the Andes
• Atacama Desert Oasis
• Multi-Region or Country
• Andes Lakes Crossing

Sample Itineraries by Destination

• South America
• Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
• Peru & Machu Picchu
• Chile, Easter Island & Patagonia
• Argentina & Patagonia

Sample Itineraries by Travel Type

• Classic South America
• Active Adventure
• Trek the Inca Trail & Patagonia
• Luxury South America
• Special Interest Groups – Group Travel
• Small Ship South America Cruise

In The Press

Featured Journey

Ultimate Bolivian Adventure

Journey through the rugged and otherworldly terrain of Southern Bolivia, exploring lagoons, volcanoes and Uyuni salt flats before ending in the capital of La Paz, perched atop the Andes Mountains, stopping at the historical rich communities of Potosi and Sucre along the way. Ideal connection with Chile’s Atacama Desert or start and finish in La Paz.

Our trip was everything we dreamed it would be and more. Your group did a great job everywhere we went.  We especially loved our guide Paula, and Explora was top notch too. All perfect.

THE KNOWMAD BLOG

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Travel Tips

In the Press

By traveling alongside Knowmad you will be taking part in culturally and environmentally sustainable travel. You will be spreading the love, and the wealth. You will be doing Good Works. Learn more about Knowmad’s eco-travel efforts.

U.S. office located in Minneapolis, MN Hours Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm, CST

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The Knowmad team put together the trip of a life time for us. Everything was perfect, from the guides to the accommodations to the activities, and your extensive knowledge of the area and personal relationships with the people we met in Chile were invaluable. We can’t recommend Knowmad highly enough.

- Ben and Sarah, New York, NY | Custom Chile Trip

After traveling to Chile two years ago with Knowmad Adventures there was no question as to who was going to help plan my trip to Peru! Thank you so much to Knowmad Adventures. The places they recommended, connections, and knowledge of these regions were impeccable. I highly recommend using Knowmad Adventures to plan your next trip to Peru or Chile!

- Deanna, Santa Barbara, CA | Inca Trail & Beyond

- Rosella, Denver, CO | Custom Chile Trip

Please don’t ever change the way you operate. You fulfill lifelong dreams and provide people with the chance to live what they thought could only be read about.

- Kevin, Minnetonka, MN | Amazon to Andes Odyssey

You put together a one-of-a-kind vacation for my group that I’ll long remember and enthusiastically recommend. I thank you and look forward, with much anticipation, to my next adventure with you.

- Lisa, Seattle, WA | Custom Ecuador Trip

We got back last night and I must say that the organization of the entire trip was AMAZING. We all loved Peru and thanks to Knowmad we even enjoyed it a lot more. Thanks a lot Jordan for everything as we had sooooo much fun. I’ll definitely recommend you to anybody that wants to experience Peru.

- Barbara, Barcelona, Spain | Peru Active Explorer

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• Describe your next adventure
• More specifically (online) More specifically... Condé Nast Traveler online Knowmad Adventures newsletter Social media - Facebook, Instagram, etc. Travel + Leisure online Travel forum Web search Wendy Perrin Other online outlet

Bio Bio Expeditions - Chile & Argentina

Adventure travel in patagonia.

We warmly invite you to explore Patagonia, Chile and Argentina with us during South America’s summer from early December through March. With over 28 years of experience running adventure travel in Chile and Argentina, you can rely on Bio Bio Expedition’s deep adventure travel expertise to plan the absolute best vacation to Patagonia and South America. We pour our heart and soul into every aspect of your Bio Bio adventure. Come with us to experience an amazing and authentic Futaleufu River Rafting Adventure where you will fully live the beauty, culture and magic of Patagonia. Explore Torres Del Paine National Park in Patagonia or hike Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina or join us for Flyfishing in Chile .

Riverside Elegance on the Futaleufu River, Chile

We are intent on providing you with a vacation in Patagonia that will surpass your wildest expectations! From the exciting Rafting on the Futaleufú and Rio Azul to horseback riding in Chile up pristine glacier-fed river valleys, from daily yoga classes to receiving a relaxing massage, from mountain biking to soaking in a riverside hot tub with a glass of fine Chilean wine, we’ve found the ideal way for you to satisfy your desire to explore, be active and relax all on the same adventure. Our daily schedule on our Futaleufu trips are flexible so that you can choose to do your favorite outdoor activities (or not!) to your heart’s content. We entertain a broad spectrum of ages and appetites for adventure and adrenaline.

Whether you are an expert white water paddler or a novice rafter, an avid fisherman or dedicated kayaker, we can design the ultimate Futaleufu or Patagonia adventure. Maybe you want to do it all… or perhaps your spouse or partner wants to horse back ride and you want to paddle – whatever fun you want to have, our team at Bio Bio Expeditions will bend over backwards making sure you are having the best time all of the time! Our unique and comfortable Adventure Safari-style camp on the banks of Chile’s azure Futaleufu River will be your new favorite home away from home! You will love it!

Southern Patagonia National Parks

And once you’ve experienced “the Fu”, travel on to Patagonia’s National Parks where you can hike amidst Torres Del Paine ‘s peaks or marvel at the glaciers of Southern Argentina in Las Glaciares National Park .

Our Adventures

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Featured Trip Futaleufu River Rafting Multi-Sport

High adventure activities in the heart of Patagonia, Chile on the Futaleufu River include: whitewater rafting Class II-V, hiking, horseback riding, fly-fishing, daily yoga classes and mountain biking!

Relax during your stay at our deluxe riverside camp with hot tub, sunset bar, massage, wine tasting, and more!

Kayaking the Futaleufu

Futaleufu Kayaking: three diverse and exciting rivers in one fabulous trip: Rio Futaleufu, Rio Azul and Rio Espolon. Stay at our riverside camp and enjoy great food and world-famous Patagonia hospitality. It’s a paddler’s paradise on the Futaleufu! Depending on experience, we have kayaking for beginners in which we can help you learn to kayak better, so any level of experience is welcome.

Fly Fishing The Futaleufu

Famous Parks of Southern Patagonia

Hike amongst the towering granite spires of the Fitzroy Massif and Torres del Paine National Park, view the Perito Moreno, Grey and Viedma Glaciers. Relax at the end of the day in comfortable, well appointed lodges.

Punta Arenas, Chalten, Calafate, gateways to your trekking adventure and visit to both Chile and Argentina!

Torres Del Paine Hiking

Explore the vast, open park of Torres del Paine on the southern tip of Chile. Hike amidst the breathtaking beauty of the famous granite peaks! Stay in the Torres del Paine National Park at the unique and comfortable Ecocamp while exploring the region.

Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park is among the great scenic wonders of the world!

Trekking to FitzRoy Massif, Cerro Torre and marveling at the jagged surface of Glacier Perito Moreno is a truly Southern Patagonia experience not to be missed!

Chile: Northern Patagonia Multi-Sport Adventure CME

This exciting Wilderness Emergency Medicine CME Course is based in the spectacular northern region of Patagonia on the Futaleufu River, with some of the most fantastic mountain scenery in the world, including giant peaks, glaciers, pristine forests and wild rivers!

Classic Patagonia CME

The Patagonia Wilderness Emergency Medicine CME Conference give you the chance to visit one of the premiere scenic mountain areas on the planet!

Chile’s Torres del Paine and Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Parks are among the great scenic wonders of the world!  This extraordinary trip brings you to the very heart of both of these legendary regions.

Futaleufu in Patagonia Multi Sport IVS

This exciting multi-sport Veterinary CE Course takes place on the mighty Futeleufu River in the heart of Patagonia! Stay at our river-side base camp, the ideal launching spot for your mountain biking, hiking, running and fly fishing excursions!

National Parks of Southern Patagonia IVS

The Patagonia International Veterinary Seminars Conference give you the chance to visit one of the premiere scenic mountain areas on the planet!

Extensions available:

Got questions, call us: 1-800-246-7238 by email: [email protected].

Office hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday PST

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FUTALEUFU RIVER RAFTING, FLY FISHING, KAYAKING AND MORE!!

Patagonia Elements is an adventure travel company founded by professional guides with over 26 years of combined experience. We are located in southern Chile, in the quaint Patagonian town of Futaleufu surrounded by towering mountains, marvelous forests and glaciers.

Our specialty is our personalized, professional guide service which offers a variety of multi-sport activities for all ages and experience levels. From the moment you arrive in Futaleufu our bilingual guides will make sure you have the best, safest experience while enjoying the world class rafting, local culture and the vast array of adventure activities this remarkable valley has to offer.

Our priority is offering excellent service with your safety in mind!

We will make of your vacations an unforgettable experience!!!

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Patagonia Adventure Travel on the Futaleufu River

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Whitewater Rafting, Multi-Sport Adventure on the Futaleufu River!

The ultimate multi-sport guided adventure tour in Chile.

Over 25 Years Experience

We have been safely guiding and expertly rafting the Futaleufu River since 1993.  Featured in National Geographic & the winner of  Outside Magazine’s prestigious Active Travel Awards.

5-Star Ratings Across The Board

We can’t make this stuff up! Everyone is thrilled with our tours and often come back for a second or third.  Read all our 5-star tour guide reviews on Tripadvisor or Facebook .

A Bucket-List Trip

We offer the unique experience of a lifetime.  Enjoy an authentic Patagonia experience, become part of the Bio Bio family and join us on our next adventure travel vacation on the Futaleufu River.

Alone or in groups…

The Best Futaleufu River Rafting Trip.

This one of a kind adventure vacation takes you into the heart of Patagonia, Chile on the Futaleufu River.  There are activities, for everyone on this trip, including whitewater rafting Class II-V, hiking, horseback riding, fly-fishing, daily yoga classes and mountain biking.  This is a true multi-sport adventure tour on the Futaleufu in Chile.

Get a sneak peak on what you can expect on your trip and what sets us apart from the rest of the guided tours.

A few of our

Futaleufu Trip Highlights

Inflatable kayaking down the rio azul, fly fishing patagonia, mountain biking in chile, outdoor yoga, riverside campfire.

What is your ideal adventure vacation?

Escape the city for the rafting trip of a lifetime.

This was the best trip that my girlfriend and I have ever been on. The food, facilities, people and terrain were all incredible! I can’t say enough great things about this trip. We are already planing our next trip with Bio Bio to explore other parts of the world and are looking forward to returning to the Fu! It is a very special place I would highly recommend checking it out.

Bio Bio: What does it mean when you run out of adjectives to describe our days here? To say thank you seems too light. I will say we have traveled the globe and not found a more professional, kind, talented group. The heart pounding excitement is real here as are the heartfelt hugs.

The best Futaleufu rafting trip ever!

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What’s In Your Bag? Patagonia Packing List for Whitewater

Cypress-lined river banks fly by as you maneuver through Chilean Patgonia’s world-famous whitewater, and you’re lost in the moment.

When the mighty Futaleufú River reaches up to douse you with cold water, it’s not a rude shock –  all you feel is an invigorating chill. Your feet aren’t numb (and the grippy soles of your shoes have saved you from falling on slick river rock multiple times today). Your water bottle is clipped securely in place, using a carabiner that won’t snag your clothes, in the unlikely event the raft should capsize.

None of this happened by accident. 

A whitewater rafting and kayaking adventure in Patagonia is one of the most heart-pounding, awe-inspiring, and rewarding trips you can take. But it can become uncomfortable or just plain unsafe really fast… unless you follow a proper packing list!

In this article, we’ll talk about what to wear whitewater rafting and kayaking (including which pieces of rafting gear you really need to buy, and why). 

We’ll also share our complete Patagonia packing list for comfort and ease on the river, in the mountains, and during much-deserved chill time.

New around here? This article is written specifically for the Patagonia Yoga Adventure , but if you’re gearing up for any whitewater adventure or just Patagonia-curious, you’re in the right place!

What to Wear Whitewater Rafting in Patagonia

When you’re new to white-water rafting or kayaking, the question of “what to wear whitewater rafting” quickly becomes “how much do I really need to buy for whitewater rafting?

We get it. Paying for airfare, local accommodations, quality food, and first-rate guides is already a big investment. Why should you pull out your credit card for a bunch of whitewater gear you’re already picturing tucked in the corner of your garage next to that ancient backpacking tent and your kid’s too-short skis?

Well, we hope you’ll be hooked on whitewater sports for life and have a reason to use your gear over and over… but that’s besides the point. 

The point is this: buying the right gear for your whitewater rafting and kayaking adventure is an investment in your own safety and comfort that’ll prove its worth within hours. 

Proper whitewater gear gives you…

• Safety. Rafting and kayaking are action sports, so it’s up to you to manage risks! If you’ve booked the Patagonia Yoga Adventure , you’ve already chosen safety through expert local guides, a cataraft entourage in case of emergencies, and training before your first outing. Reaffirm your commitment to safety by wearing and bringing the right things on the water!
• Warmth. On the water, keeping warm isn’t just about comfort. Water transfers heat away from your body over 20 times faster than air… so the 60-70 degree F° waters of the Futaleufú will take their toll fast without proper protection. Wetsuits and other neoprene layers are a must to preserve body heat and stay safe. Leave anything cotton behind!
• Compatibility. When we (or any travel company!) require a specific brand or size for a particular item, there’s always a reason. Usually, it’s to make sure all the pieces of your outfit fit together correctly. You don’t want to have to choose between two equally important layers because you can’t wear them at the same time!
• Sun protection. The right layers protect your body from the UV rays coming from the sky and bouncing off the river’s surface. But you’ll need to protect any exposed skin and your eyes!

Keep scrolling for a list of all the whitewater rafting clothing and gear items you really need for your trip (and none of the ones you don’t!). 

Note that some items have a required brand or model – and while we’re not usually sticklers, we’ll hold you to these! Standardization helps our guides keep the whole group of adventurers safe in the turbulent Chilean river water.

Layers and Wetsuits for Whitewater Rafting

As with most outdoor sports, comfort in whitewater sports is all about layering!

Base layer: Something to go under your wetsuit. We recommend a bathing suit – wet cotton underwear can foil your efforts to stay warm!

Wetsuit: Necessary for staying warm in cold water and provided by our guides.

Waterproof paddle jacket: Trust us: a traditional raincoat won’t hold up to the rapids of the mighty Futaleufú for long. With fitted neoprene cuffs and a cinch around the waist, a purpose-designed paddle jacket will actually keep you dry – and that means warm!

• Buy the required jacket here!

Over-wetsuit shorts: Optional! Choose swim trunks or another quick-drying short if you’d like to wear a layer over your wetsuit. 

2mm wetsuit socks: Thin neoprene wetsuit socks keep your feet warm while still fitting inside your shoes. Make sure to pick a size that fits securely on your feet! Too much material stuffed inside your river shoe makes it hard to secure the shoe on your foot, which can lead to a rolled ankle.

• Buy the required wetsuit socks here!

Shoes for Whitewater Rafting

Just two brands of rafting shoes are allowed on our Patagonia Yoga Adventure. Our local guides require these models because they check all the boxes for a safe river shoe:

• Grippy soles, for preparing on the riverbank and wading into the water. Few rubber soles were designed with this in mind – and when you’re walking confidently on wet rock, you’ll feel the difference.
• Quick drainage because even with wetsuit socks, you don’t want a gallon of river water in each shoe.
• Toe protection to avoid a non-life-threatening but unpleasantly common type of river injury.
• Secure lace-up design to prevent rolled ankles or losing a shoe. Snug fitting shoes are extremely important on the river, and only a lace-up design will give you enough stability and security.

Option 1: Astral

With their special soles designed for river walking, Astrals are a great choice. Choose any lace up style for rafting. 

Option 2: Adidas 5.10 Stealth

Though they’re marketed for other sports like biking and climbing, shoes with Adidas 5.10’s Stealth rubber soles grip wet rock better than most – making them solid shoes for whitewater rafting. Choose any lace-up style.

Essential Whitewater Rafting Accessories

Helmet: Absolutely necessary (that brain of yours is precious!), but provided by our guides.

Personal flotation device: We don’t have to explain this one! Also provided by our guides.

Water bottle with locking carabiner: Bring a carabiner to secure your water bottle to your raft or kayak, but make sure the carabiner is the locking kind. Non-locking carabiners – the kind you simply push to open – could snag you to a flipped raft, creating the worst-case capsize scenario.

Sunglasses with neck strap: Polarized sunglasses are ideal for on-water glare. Whatever type of sunglasses you bring, a neck strap will keep them attached to you and out of the river. 

Complete Patagonia Packing List

Though Patagonia is a world-class paddling destination, no visiting is complete without exploring the region’s mountains. 

The rest of our Patagonia packing list gives you everything you need to hike, bike, stand up paddle, chill, and yoga… without hauling a massive bag!

Travel Essentials

• Valid passport with copies stored separately or digitally.
• 2 copies of complete flight itinerary.
• Self-test kits and masks per your preference.
• Be prepared to pay initially for any expenses and keep receipts: travel insurance works on a reimbursement basis.

Clothing and Adventure Essentials

• Lightweight hiking shoes. Bring what you’re comfortable with, as long as it has a grippy sole. If you’re buying new shoes, break them in before traveling!
• Small daypack with a belt strap.
• Medium-weight jacket.
• Quick-drying synthetic shirts.
• Other short and long-sleeved shirts.
• Long pants.
• 3 pairs synthetic quick-drying socks.
• Bathing suit.
• Toiletries.
• High-SPF sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Personal medication and script.
• Yoga clothes.
• Sandals or flip-flops.
• Power adapters for types C and L.

Optional Extras

• A good book.
• Travel journal.
• Binoculars.
• Camera and charger.
• Lightweight bicycle gloves for paddling.
• Glasses or contacts.
• Melatonin for jet lag.
• Hand sanitizer.

Whitewater Adventure Awaits…

…all those who are prepared! 

(Don’t worry, that definitely includes you now – you know exactly what to wear whitewater rafting).

With this rafting-in-Patagonia packing list in hand, we hope you’re ready to get to the stores (or online!) and collect the must-have clothing and gear for a warm, comfortable, and above all safe adventure. 

We’ll see you (and your snazzy wetsuit socks) on the scenic banks of the Futaluefú.

[View Patagonia Yoga Adventure]

10 of Idaho’s Best Whitewater Rapids

The Top Idaho Rapids According to River Guides

We admit it’s pretty tough to pick the best whitewater rapids in Idaho. This is the “ whitewater state ” we’re talking about after all. But when it comes to narrowing down the choices, river guides definitely have their favorites. We asked around and here are the rapids that guides love to paddle and row that offer some of the best river rafting and boating in Idaho.

1) Wild Sheep | Snake River through Hells Canyon

Rating: Class IV (depending on water level)

Rumors of Hells Canyon , the deepest gorge in North America, is what first brought whitewater enthusiasts to Idaho. While many of the original big drops now lie under the reservoir made by Hells Canyon Dam, several big rapids on the Snake River still remain. Among the most notorious are Granite and Wild Sheep. At certain flows, Granite’s Green Room—an ocean-sized wave where at the bottom of the trough your boat is surrounded on all sides by green water—appears and is a favorite among boaters. But the real challenge to guides on this stretch is Wild Sheep, the first large rapid on a Hells Canyon trip.

“There are very few rapids that keep me up the night before a trip,” says Mia Clyatt, an OARS Idaho guide. “But if I’m sleeping at the dam and it’s high water, I’m thinking about Wild Sheep, and I’m losing sleep about that rapid.”

At high water, boats take a pushy right line with a couple massive holes and some haphazard laterals that can easily flip boats. During lower water, the line moves to the left side, requiring a solid left-to-right move into a series of large waves. If it doesn’t go well, boats have to be righted quickly before more whitewater.

2) Ruby Rapid | Riggins Section of the Salmon River

Rating: Class III

For most of the season, Ruby Rapid—named for Idaho’s famed star garnets—is a mellow, Class II ride. But at high water, it’s a Class IV monster. During spring runoff, Ruby pushes the entire current of the Salmon River (sometimes as high as 90,000 cubic feet per second) against a sheer granite cliff face. At the entrance, you have to make it through the laterals nicknamed “the pencil sharpener” before working your boat to the right as you crest ocean-sized rollers. Miss this move and you’ll end up in the “pancake wave” that will flip you like the breakfast hotcake that you are. Plus, you’ll have an audience. The nearby Salmon River road makes this a favorite spot to cheer on boats as they take on Ruby, especially during Riggins’ Big Water Blowout event.

3) Black Creek | Main Salmon River

Rating: Class IV

Black Creek Rapid is the quintessential pool-drop-river rapid. Nestled in the heart of jaw-dropping Black Canyon on the Main Salmon , it’s also one of Idaho’s newest rapids (formed in 2011 by a creek blowout). At high water, Black Creek becomes giant, roller coaster-sized waves. As the water drops, however, the rapid becomes more technical. Most boaters choose the slender left line rather than risk a center run, push away move from three giant, back-to-back hydraulics. Not to say the left line is anything to sneeze at – a combination of lateral waves makes finding the proper entrance point crucial to not sticking your boat on the sharp left hand side rocks. “It’s a rapid that comes with a lot of myth and rumor,” says Clyatt. “It’s a pretty intimidating looking line and there are a lot of rocks along the left shore that you could smash in a dory.”

4) Slide | Lower Salmon River

Rating: Class V (depending on water level)

Most boaters slip through Slide Rapid without even knowing it is named…at low water. At high water, Slide Rapid becomes a Class V+ rapid that prevents most commercial companies from running this section of the river. Hit river conditions at just the right medium flow, however, and Slide becomes what river legends are made of.

“It prevents trips from launching, flips J rigs, and it leaves a heavy knot in your stomach that feels kind of like too much Taco Bell,” according to Idaho guide Ian Fodor-Davis.

Created by rock fall from a nearby power line, Slide, like many rapids, is created by constriction. Unlike other rapids though, Slide has all 415 miles of Salmon River flow behind it. Two gigantic lateral waves come together into a froth of eddy lines and surging hydraulics. Hold your breath! Or, wait for a lower water Gorges of the Lower Salmon trip and live vicariously through three OARS guides who took on Slide Rapid in whitewater kayaks.

5) Ladle | Selway River

Rating: Class IV+

The Selway is known for its wilderness character, exceptional fishing and beautiful cedar-lined views. It’s also known for its meaty, technical rapids like Ladle.

“Ladle is one of those rapids where you get out to scout and you’re like, ‘Whaaaaaa?!’ because it is the mother of all boulder gardens,” explains OARS guide Jasmine Wilhelm.

Ladle starts wide as you drop in, but then it funnels to a constriction at the bottom. “The first time I ran it the water was really low and we had small boats so we snuck far left,” Wilhelm recalls.  “It was a move of total blind faith because you couldn’t see what you’re about to encounter as you made a 90-degree sweeping right turn around these massive boulders.”

“But it’s beautiful to be in that channel making tight moves as the water just rages through the boulder garden to your right like it’s running through a colander,” she continues. “Ladle had this sense of wildness about it.”

6) Hells Half Mile | Middle Fork Salmon River

The stunning Middle Fork of the Salmon River , which runs through the heart of the Frank Church Wilderness, is famed for having 100 rapids in 100 miles, and Hells Half Mile is one of the best. It’s not the famous “big drop” you might know from the similarly-named rapid on the Green River in Utah, but it’s equally as challenging, according to OARS trip leader and Idaho guide Ashley Brown.

“At high water, Hells Half Mile is a long, continuous S-bend ending in a narrow canyon that hides some boat-eating holes,” describes Brown. “At low water, that long S-bend turns into a boulder garden that will leave you either exalted or exasperated.” In fact, at low flows it becomes so technical that it pushes trip launches down to Indian Creek, letting the guides brave the rocks and shallows with empty boats.

Beyond the excitement though, the narrows at the bottom of the rapid make it one of the most aesthetically pleasing rapids in the West. And as the first major rapid on the Middle Fork, it’s the perfect teaser of what’s to come.

7) Flight Simulator | East Fork of the South Fork of the Salmon

Rating: Class V+

This complex gauntlet sits at the top of the ultra-classic East Fork of the South Fork run, so paddlers who aren’t feeling it can join the crew below and still have a great day, according to Idaho guide Dan Thurber. For better or worse, the crux is the entrance.

“It’s a dizzyingly long rapid with sustained Class IV-V whitewater that stretches around six bends in the river.  Or is it 7? I can never remember, especially when I’m in the middle of it,” explains Idaho guide Dan Thurber.  “It’s impossible to memorize every feature and move, so it forces paddlers to think more about big ideas: Keep your eyes open, follow seams and waves, hug the inside of corners, remember to breathe.  And for God’s sake: don’t swim!”

8) Termination | Lochsa River

Rating: Class III-IV (depending on water level)

Super beautiful and easily accessed along scenic Highway 12, the Lochsa River is known for being “explosive, continuous and high adventure.” Running during peak flows in the spring, the Lochsa draws boaters from across the West. While most whitewater love goes to iconic Lochsa Falls a few miles upstream, another not-to-be-missed crowd favorite is Termination. Giant entrance waves followed by a pancake slapper lateral from the left has had adventure seekers swimming downstream without a paddle more than once. Whether you stay in the boat or not, it’s guaranteed to be a cold but exciting ride.

9) Blackadar | South Fork of the Payette River

Three high adventure sections of whitewater within twenty minutes of each other make the Payette River a whitewater utopia. And while it’s not the biggest rapid on the South Fork Payette, Blackadar Rapid, right after the portage for Big Falls, makes the best list for being big on fun and scenery.

It’s “about as close to wilderness as you can find on a day stretch in Idaho,” explains Payette River guide Chelsea Galleri. “It feels deep and remote and everyone’s hearts are pounding after having to move boats and people around a giant waterfall!”

Named after Idaho whitewater pioneer and wilderness advocate Walt Blackadar, this relatively forgiving Class IV drop surprises paddlers with a few big hits at the end.

10) Sunbeam | Upper Salmon River

In 1910, a dam was constructed across the Salmon River to create water pressure for mines along the Yankee Fork tributary. After sportsmen and Idaho Fish and Game realized the dam was reducing Sockeye Salmon, the dam was blasted. What remains—Sunbeam Rapid—is a site to behold (as are its waves).

“It’s a unique rapid because as you enter, your bow is angled upstream” says Stanley-area guide Casey Jones. “You can’t see the hydraulics until you come around the corner. If you think you’re going to drive your boat across the current, you’ll fail. You have to run this rapid tight and upper right.”

And if you blow your line, according to Jones, it’s a huge hit and full-on swim through frothing post-dynamite rebar/concrete waves.  Many guides consider it to be one of the most technical and iconic rapids on the Salmon River.

Got an Idaho whitewater favorite? Let us know in the comments.

Explore Idaho Rafting Trips

* Originally published in 2016 and last updated October, 2023

Related Posts

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2024 Western Rafting Outlook: “Goldilocks Conditions”

The Curiously Cataclysmic Cutthroat Cove Rapid

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Montgomery Whitewater: What to know before your trip to the park

B efore you and the family suddenly show up for a wet adventure at Montgomery Whitewater this summer, there are some things you really need to know.

Not a water park!

Its grounds are very park like. It has water. But, folks, this is not a "water park" — no waterslides and no swimming if it can be avoided.

"I know that’s a little bit of a misnomer out there," said Dave Hepp, CEO of Montgomery Whitewater.

This is actually two channels of artificial river created to challenge whitewater enthusiasts who love rafting and kayaking, and also riding those inflatable kayaks called "duckies."

No experience required to go rafting

If you're up to it, book a rafting ride — in person or at montgomerywhitewater.com. They have different levels to pick from, including a more family-friendly one for beginners. Don't worry if you haven't gone whitewater rafting before. Your guides will show you how. Hence their title — guides.

You can, and should, wear your bathing suits, along with the required helmets and life jackets they provide. Just bring some dry clothing to change into when you're done. You're gonna get soooooooooaked!

Train up, newbie kayakers

That "no experience required" thing for going on rafts... well, that doesn't apply to kayak users.

If someone bought you a kayak for Christmas and you've never really used it, much less in whitewater conditions, don't dust it off and expect to immediately use it here. That's dangerous. You need some experience in kayaks made for whitewater.

The good news is that you don't have to keep being kayak newbies. Montgomery Whitewater offers several training courses you can pay to enroll in ( see the website ).

Give your Crocs and flip flops the boot

The kind of footwear you're most likely think to wear for a day of water fun is exactly the kind you shouldn't — and can't — while whitewater rafting.

“The deal with Crocs and flip flops is that they fall off,” Hepp said. That's why they're banned for rafters.

Instead, you could wear old shoes you don’t mind getting soaked. The outfitter store also has footwear for sale, plus some you can rent.

Unless you're going on the water, it's free to be there!

“Essentially, you can drive up, park, walk around, walk your dog, ride your bike, without necessarily paying for anything, unless you are doing an activity or going to the restaurant,” Hepp said.

Parking's free also, something else different from most water parks.

Leave your food back home in the fridge

There's no outside food or drink allowed. The only eating on site comes from outfitter store and Eddy's Restaurant and Bar. You can also grab beer and other drinks on tap from the beer garden.

“We don’t want people coming out and setting up camp on the lawn, bringing coolers and setting up picnics,” Hepp said.

Don't smoke 'em if you've got 'em

No smoking, vaping or e-cigarette use is allowed on Montgomery Whitewater grounds.

They haven’t banned smokeless tobacco  — snuff, dip, chewing tobacco and similar stuff. At least not yet. You can bet they don't want rafters spitting 'bacca juice in their pristine water.

“If it becomes an issue where we’re cleaning up spit all over the place, we’ll have to address it for sure,” Hepp said.

Other bits of whitewater wisdom

• The grand opening is set for July 8: Along with rafting, they'll have a lot to do on dry land. They've got live music planned, and the restaurant and beer garden will be open.
• You can probably go rafting more than once: Each rafting trip is about 90 minutes, and that's roughly four or five laps. One round of action could wear you out. But maybe not? If you're super energetic and want to keep going, the day passes you purchased allow you to go back out raft multiple times in a day — based on capacity. So go, row, row, row your boat all day long, if you want.
• Rafting for the disabled: Montgomery Whitewater follows Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, and their staff will offer guidance on if a water activity can be safely accommodated for an individual. It's best to contact them about this well in advance.
• If you bring it, you might lose it: Don't bring anything on a raft that you don't mind losing forever. That include phones!
• No, there’s not a weight limit for raft riders: The only caveat to this is that the life vest has to fit. They’ve got a 55 inch chest limit.
• Yes, there are age requirements: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The youngest a kid can be to go rafting is 8, and that’s on the beginner rafting with a group. For moderate adventure rafting, it's age 10 and up. Ramp it all the way to advanced rodeo rafting, and you’ve got to be at least 16. For those going out on inflatable kayaks (aka duckies), the youngest age is 13 — and that’s in a two-person ducky with an adult.
• Watch the weather: When you pay to get out on the water, that’s nonrefundable. If severe weather causes Montgomery Whitewater to close, still no refund. So take a moment to check out the forecast before you pay for a ride.

Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at   [email protected]

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Montgomery Whitewater: What to know before your trip to the park

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Vote for your favorite white water rafting tour!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting is a great way to add a dash of adventure to a trip, and these 20 companies have been nominated by an expert panel for offering the best white-water rafting tours in the country. Which white-water rafting tour company would you most like to traverse the river with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour companies will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting...   Read More

Best White Water Rafting Tour Nominees

Photo courtesy of ACE Adventure Resort Staff

ACE Adventure Resort

Oak Hill, West Virginia

Hoping to conquer the surging rapids of New River Gorge National Park during your next trip to West Virginia? Look no further than ACE Adventure Resort, a tour operator that specializes in day excursions ranging from beginner level jaunts to more thrilling expeditions for experienced rafters.

Photo courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge

Adventures on the Gorge

Lansing, West Virginia

Adventures on the Gorge specializes in white-water rafting trips in West Virginia. The most popular excursion takes guests along the Lower New River while navigating 25 rapids ranging from Class II to IV. Other options include the Upper New River and Gauley River.

Photo courtesy of VAWiley / E+ Getty Images

ARTA River Trips

Multiple locations

Established back in 1963, ARTA River Trips offers a wealth of curated outdoor adventure excursions that highlight the beauty of North America's western rivers. For those hoping to immerse themselves in the California wilderness, a multi-day rafting trip along the Tuolumne is a must-try, while Idaho's Main Salmon River is perfect for a more underrated getaway.

Photo courtesy of mauinow1 / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips

Jackson, Wyoming

A must-try for any outdoor adventure aficionados visiting Wyoming, Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips has been offering curated rafting excursions along Jackson Hole's Snake River since 1967. While 8-mile rafting trips are available for ambitious visitors, those who prefer to kick back and relax can opt for a leisurely and scenic 13-mile float instead.

Photo courtesy of Downstream Adventures

Downstream Adventures Rafting

Empire, Colorado

Downstream Adventures takes travelers on rafting trips through the heart of the Colorado Rockies via Clear Creek. Beginners navigate the 15 rapids of Middle Clear Creek, while more experienced rafters can take on the Lower or Upper Creek (or the full river). They also offer trips along the Upper Colorado River.

Photo courtesy of Echo Canyon River Expeditions

Echo Canyon River Expeditions

Canon City, Colorado

Echo Canyon is a white-water rafting outfitter in the state of Colorado, offering half-day, full-day, and multi-day expeditions on the Arkansas River. Guests can enjoy expeditions for all ages through Bighorn Sheep Canyon or adventures for more experienced thrill-seekers at Royal Gorge.

Photo courtesy of Kathy Sullivan's Mountain Photography

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft

West Glacier, Montana

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft can’t wait to take you rafting down the stunning Flathead River in Glacier National Park. Enjoy thrilling Class II-III white-water rafting adventures with various rafting experiences for a half-day or full day. Also available are overnight/multi-day trips for rafters of all levels.

Photo courtesy of Tim Bell

Green River Adventures

Saluda, North Carolina

Green River Adventures offers white-water rafting experiences from Saluda, North Carolina. Their Lower Green River adventure is great for families and those who prefer more moderate activity levels, while their Upper Green River experience is geared towards experienced white-water enthusiasts looking for heart-pumping excitement and Class IV rapids.

Photo courtesy of Hells Canyon Raft

Hells Canyon Raft

McCall, Idaho

This Idaho-based raft company believes every turn of the river has a story to tell, and their Hells Canyon rafting trips are "journeys through a land rich in myth and geologic wonder." Enjoy a three-, four-, five-, or six-day trip on the Snake River, where boulders and rockslides have created the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Between the rapids, watch for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and deer. For family fun, take a four- or five-day trip along the Salmon River, where the rapids are still exciting but family-friendly.

Photo courtesy of Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bryson City, North Carolina

Appalachia is rife with incredible white-water rafting opportunities, and for those wishing to discover all that the region has to offer, the Nantahala Outdoor Center has got you covered. While Bryson City's Nantahala River plays host to the company's main headquarters, participants can set off on excursions all across the Southeast, with added bases along the Pigeon River, French Broad River, and a wealth of other locations.

Photo courtesy of Northwest Rafting Company

Northwest Rafting Company

Hood River, Oregon

Northwest Rafting Company specializes in rafting trips on Oregon’s Rogue River and Idaho’s Salmon River, though guests can also choose multi-day trips along the Owyhee, Illinois, or Chetco rivers. Specialty itineraries add in gourmet food or live bluegrass music. Trips last four to six days.

Photo courtesy of Dylan Silver / OARS

A veteran of the white-water rafting industry, OARS made their debut in 1969, with more than half a million customers served since then. Today, the company offers more than 75 distinct itineraries, taking guests to top-notch destinations spanning from Idaho’s Salmon River to Fiji’s Upper Navua Gorge.

Photo courtesy of PoconoWhitewater.com

Pocono Whitewater Rafting

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Pocono Whitewater has white-water rafting adventures for everyone in the family, with no experience required. Paddle through 17 sets of rapids on a 12-mile trip with Class II-III rapids and astonishing scenery. Or take a guided, more relaxed family-style adventure with Class I-II rapids. There’s even a moonlight rafting experience where you leave at sundown and navigate through rapids by the light of the moon.

Photo courtesy of Rivers and Oceans

Rivers & Oceans

Flagstaff, Arizona

With Rivers & Oceans, adventurous travelers can explore the rivers of the western United States. Choose between one- to- multi-day trips through the Grand Canyon or multi-day rafting itineraries in Utah, Oregon, Arizona, Idaho, or even Alaska.

Photo courtesy of Chad Case x ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures has gotten guided outdoor recreation down to a science. Their expertly guided rafting trips take guests down some of the most scenic and exciting rivers in Idaho, Oregon, and Montana, with plenty of one-day and multi-day trips available.

Photo courtesy of Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions has more than 60 years of experience guiding trips along the rivers and canyons of the American West. Today, the company offers itineraries in Arizona (Grand Canyon), Utah, Idaho, and Oregon.

Photo courtesy of ranplett / E+ Getty Images

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

White Salmon, Washington

With trips spanning from single-day jaunts to nearly one-week outings, Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking is perfect for a lengthy foray along the rushing rivers of the Pacific Northwest. Guests can discover swift currents and natural hot springs on a five-day Owyhee River excursion, while the region's Wind River is a top choice for seasoned rafters thanks to its Class V rapids.

Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs

Wilderness Voyageurs

Ohiopyle, Pennsylavnia

With Wilderness Voyageurs, guests can enjoy several different white-water rafting adventures on rivers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. They offer trips for all skill levels and ages, with some suitable for young children.

Photo courtesy of Wildwater

Wildwater, the Southeast's "original professional outfitter," has been leading white-water rafting trips since 1971. With outposts on three rivers throughout the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, Wildwater offers a variety of rafting trips ranging from family-friendly to wildly epic.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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