River Day on the Jackson: A Family Paddle from Indian Draft to Intervale
7.5 miles • Takes 3 to 4 hours to complete • Our most popular river trip
The river does its best work in low talk and bright motion: water sliding over rocks, sunlight freckling eddies, a breeze that nudges the mountain scent downstream. On a late-spring morning at the Indian Draft boat landing, the Jackson River looks deceptively calm—glass where it wants to be, a string of white teeth where it does not. You shove off and the current takes you, not like a bossy guide but a willing companion that dares you forward.
Trail Wisdom
Wear a PFD at all times
Rivers move quickly; a Coast Guard–approved life jacket is required and keeps paddlers safe during unexpected swims.
Choose footwear with traction
Water shoes or old sneakers protect feet on rocks and make re-boarding easier at takeouts.
Pack a small dry bag
Keep phone, keys, and snacks dry—one short portage or capsize can be enough to ruin a day of photos.
Scout before you run
When in doubt at a rapid, pull to shore and look it over—many Class II drops are straightforward when read from the bank.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small gravel bars ideal for lunch or a quick swim along quieter stretches
- •Intervale Park picnic areas and nearby riverfront viewpoints for sunset photos
Wildlife
Great blue heron, River otter
Conservation Note
The river benefits from local watershed protection efforts—pack out all trash, avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation, and respect private land where access is posted.
The Jackson River and its corridor were central to early Appalachian settlement and industry; its waters powered mills and formed one fork of the James River.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Higher flows, Lively rapids, Wildflower viewing
Challenges: Cold water temperatures, Potential for higher, faster water
Spring runoff delivers the most reliable current and livelier Class II rapids—great for those seeking pace, but dress for cold water.
summer
Best for: Warmer paddling, Family outings, Calmer pockets for swimming
Challenges: Lower flows in late summer, Occasional shallow riffles
Summer offers warm air and pleasant floating; early summer tends to retain better flows than late summer.
fall
Best for: Scenic foliage, Cool, crisp days, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unpredictable rainfall, Cooler water and air temperatures
Fall colors make the river corridor particularly photogenic; check flows after rain events for safety.
winter
Best for: Quiet solitude, Clear views on cold days
Challenges: Very cold water, Limited services and shorter daylight
Winter paddling is possible for experienced, well-equipped paddlers; hypothermia risk is higher—use dry suits and caution.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)Essential
Required for safety; choose a comfortable, well-fitted model you can wear all trip long.
Water ShoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky takeouts and provide traction when lining or scouting rapids.
Dry Bag (10–20L)Essential
Keeps electronics, extra layers, and lunch dry during the trip.
Light Waterproof Jacket
Windproof layer for cooler mornings or unexpected spray on choppy stretches.
Common Questions
What age is appropriate for this paddle trip?
The recommended minimum age is 8 years; for insurance and safety reasons the operator enforces a minimum age of 6 with no exceptions.
How long does the trip take and how difficult is it?
The trip covers 7.5 river miles and typically takes 3–4 hours; expect frequent Class I–II rapids—fun for families and intermediate paddlers.
Do I need prior paddling experience?
Basic paddling skills are helpful but not required; guided trips and tandem boats make this accessible to first-timers.
Are shuttles provided to return cars?
Local operators commonly provide shuttle service between the Indian Draft put-in and Intervale Park takeout—confirm during booking.
What should I wear on the water?
Wear quick-drying, synthetic layers and water shoes; on colder days bring a neoprene layer or waterproof jacket to stay warm.
Are there restrooms and facilities at the put-in and takeout?
Indian Draft and Intervale Park have basic facilities; bring essentials in case services are limited on quieter weekdays.
What to Pack
PFD (safety and warmth), Water shoes (rocky landings and traction), Dry bag with phone/food (protect valuables), Extra layers/light waterproof (cool mornings or spray)
Did You Know
The Jackson River joins the Cowpasture River to form the James River near Iron Gate, Virginia—the start of a waterway that runs more than 340 miles to the Chesapeake Bay.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a mid-morning launch to avoid early chills, Leave valuables in your car or a waterproof bag, Check recent river flow reports before arrival, Bring cash for small local purchases
Local Flavor
After the paddle, head to downtown Covington or nearby Clifton Forge for coffee, a hearty sandwich, or a local brew—small diners and taverns here are part of the Appalachian hospitality circuit and make fine post-river stops.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport (approx. 75–90 minutes). Put-in: Indian Draft boat landing. Takeout: Intervale Park. Driving from Covington: ~15–25 minutes. Cell service: intermittent in river valley. Permits: none required for day-use trips; guided trip bookings handled by operators.
Sustainability Note
This river corridor relies on healthy riparian buffers—pack out what you pack in, avoid trampling riverbanks, and minimize noise near wildlife areas to protect habitat and water quality.