Navigate Class II rapids and historic waters on a 4-hour paddling trip along the Rivanna River near Charlottesville. Witness wildlife and learn about Jefferson's River in this outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; comfortable paddling and some maneuvering skills helpful
Wildlife
History
The Rivanna River was historically vital to local settlements and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate, reflecting colonial-era transportation and trade routes.
Conservation
Operators emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect river health and local ecosystems during all paddling adventures.
Rivanna River Company
Navigate Class II rapids and historic waters on a 4-hour paddling trip along the Rivanna River near Charlottesville. Witness wildlife and learn about Jefferson's River in this outdoor adventure.
Rivanna River Company is a Charlottesville, Virginia outfitter focused on river recreation and wellness experiences along the Rivanna River. The company offers daily equipment rentals — including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and tubes — plus a range of paddling trips and sauna sessions that serve visitors and local residents.
Rivanna River Company’s paddling options vary from short, scenic floats like the Rivanna Sampler to longer, more adventurous outings such as the Rivanna Adventure Paddle and the South Fork Exploration. River Tubing provides a casual 1.5-mile float with a shuttle return, while daily boat and tube rentals allow customers to explore independently (rental descriptions note no shuttle for equipment-only rentals).
In addition to water activities, Rivanna River Company operates sauna experiences, including Private Sauna Sessions and a BIG Private Sauna Session in a Finnish-inspired Sycamore Sauna, as well as community sauna offerings that use the Cedar Sauna (OG upper sauna). Community programming also includes outdoor yoga led by Katie Boyts, which pairs a gentle 60-minute flow with optional coffee and a river dip.
All descriptions and trip details are provided so visitors can choose rentals, private or group saunas, and guided-length paddles that match their interests. The company’s location in Charlottesville provides direct access to the Rivanna River corridor and nearby put-in and take-out points such as Free Bridge and Milton Landing.
Location
Charlottesville, VA
Direct access to the Rivanna River
Group Size
1–14
Private and big private sauna options
Water Rentals
Canoes, Kayaks, SUP, Tubes
Daily equipment rentals available
Trip Lengths
90 min to 4 hours
Sessions from sauna to adventure paddles
Choose a rental, book a paddling trip, or schedule a private sauna session for groups of 1–14.
Wear a properly fitted life jacket
Safety is paramount; always wear a life jacket rated for swift water paddling.
Protect against sun exposure
Use waterproof sunscreen and a wide-brim hat to shield yourself, especially during summer trips.
Carry a dry bag for essentials
Keep your phone, snacks, and keys dry in a waterproof bag to avoid loss or damage.
Scout rapids before running
Check the Class II ledges on foot before navigating to plan your route and ensure safety.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Ensures safety on flowing water and rapids.
Paddle
Fundamental for propulsion and control in the river.
Waterproof dry bag
Protects valuables and gear from water exposure.
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable even if you get splashed or wet.
spring;summer;fall