What To Expect When You Go Whitewater Rafting Down the Hudson River Gorge

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, whitewater rafting through the Hudson River Gorge is a great way to explore the outdoors and get your heart racing. The Hudson River Gorge is one of the most beautiful river gorges in New England, winding through miles of lush green forests with plenty of exciting rapids to navigate.

The Hudson River Gorge is located in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. The river begins at Fort Edward and flows north until it reaches Lake Champlain at Whitehall. The gorge has been carved out by thousands of years of erosion and spans more than 40 miles. There are six sections of river ranging from Class I (the easiest) to Class V (the most challenging). The Upper section is known as the “Narrows” and it winds through eight miles of narrow gorges and rocks, making it ideal for those who want an intense experience. The Lower section is more suitable for beginners due to its gentler rapids.

There are numerous outfitters who specialize in guided whitewater rafting trips along the gorge’s various sections with varying levels of difficulty depending on your skill and comfort level. A typical trip will include safety instruction and equipment rental, including life jackets and helmets, so all you need to bring is yourself – no previous experience required. Delicious meals are offered at one of several riverside restaurants near Fort Edward, and there are overnight campsites if desired.

The scenery along the river is magnificent. In addition to towering cliffs, green forests, and rushing waterfalls, there are also several historical sites that are worth exploring as well. You can take time to visit Fort Edward which dates back to 1709 or tour Glens Falls which was once inhabited by Native Americans before being settled by Europeans in 1690. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and camping along the gorge—all of which make this area even more appealing.

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