BigTime Whitewater Rafting in Lehighton, Pennsylvania
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate to high fitness, comfortable with paddling and handling rapid movements in cold water.
Overview
Get ready for an exciting whitewater rafting adventure on the Lehigh River with BigTime Whitewater in Lehighton, PA. Perfect for thrill-seekers wanting a private, guided trip through challenging rapids and scenic landscapes.
BigTime Whitewater
5 Hours on the water • Ages 8+ • Our most challenging rapids!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of BigTime Whitewater Rafting in the stunning Lehigh Gorge State Park! Navigate challenging rapids surrounded by breathtaking 900-foot canyon walls. Perfect for adventurous spirits aged 8 and up, this unforgettable 5-hour journey promises an adrenaline rush like no other. Join us for an exhilarating outdoor adventure!
The adrenaline rush you're looking for!
Duration
5 hours on the water
Total time is 7+ hours - includes checkin, safety procedures, and transportation to and from the launch point
About
This is a natural environment – no man-made water slides here!!
We call it BigTime Whitewater because it’s the most challenging whitewater rafting trip we offer… and the Lehigh Gorge State Park is where it all happens. This unique park is surely one of the gems of the Pennsylvania State Park system. Thrill yourself with a real whitewater rafting trip in outdoor scenery that will blow your mind. 900-foot canyon walls tower over your head at times – it’s awesome. This trip is perfect for adventurous people who are relatively fit, and kids 8 years old and up are welcome. Do you like getting your heart rate up a little bit? Enjoy a little adrenaline in your life? Then you know what you have to do… choose our BigTime Whitewater Rafting Trip weekends from May through Labor Day.
Raft Capacities
- 4 person minimum per raft
- 7 person maximum per raft
What to Know and Bring
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Sun and weather protection
- Signed waivers are required for all participants
- Water activity gear, equipment, and water guns for sale on site
- Wetsuits and Paddle Jackets available for rent
- Car Keys should be left at safe storage at Check-In Counter
Lunch
Fresh, locally prepared boxed lunches are available for purchase. During check out, please indicate if you are interested and we will reach out to discuss your order. Since our boxed lunches are prepared fresh, we will need to know in advance so we can bake enough bread in time! Last-minute and same-day reservations will miss out but we're happy to recommend local eateries!
Please Note
All reservations are subject to a River Access Fee of $6.50
Adventure Tips
Wear a properly-fitted life jacket
Always wear the life jacket provided by Jim Thorpe River Adventures to ensure safety on turbulent waters.
Bring waterproof bags for personal items
Protect your phone, camera, and valuables from splashes by storing them in waterproof bags.
Stay alert during rapids
Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully to navigate safely through Class III and IV rapids.
Wear sturdy water shoes
Closed-toe water shoes provide foot protection and better grip on slippery surfaces.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters frequent the Lehigh River
- Bald eagles are occasionally spotted soaring overhead
History
The Lehigh River region has a rich industrial past, historically used for transporting coal during Pennsylvania’s mining boom.
Conservation
Jim Thorpe River Adventures supports river cleanups and promotes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Allentown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Neoprene wetsuit
Helps keep you warm in chilly spring river temperatures.
spring specific
Waterproof dry bag
Protects your belongings from splashes during rafting.
Water shoes with grip
Provides traction and foot protection on wet, rocky surfaces.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during summer trips.
summer specific