THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the scenic beauty of Virginia's James River on a 9-mile kayak or canoe trip from Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan. Perfect for adventure seekers, this guided paddle offers stunning views and wildlife encounters. Read on to learn more about this must-do outdoor experience!
Discover the scenic beauty of Virginia's James River on a 9-mile kayak or canoe trip from Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan. Perfect for adventure seekers, this guided paddle offers stunning views and wildlife encounters. Read on to learn more about this must-do outdoor experience!
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Twin Rivers Outfitters · Buchanan, Virginia
moderate.
4–5 hours.
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, able to paddle comfortably for several hours.
No, this trip is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, with safety briefings provided.
Bring water, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and any personal items in waterproof containers.
Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate with parental supervision, and life jackets are provided.
The paddle covers approximately 9 miles and lasts around 4 to 5 hours, including breaks.
Trips may be rescheduled or canceled in case of thunderstorms or unsafe conditions for safety.
Yes, all participants will receive a life jacket and safety instruction before starting.
The James River played a vital role in Virginia's early transportation and settlement history, with early explorers and Native peoples relying on its waters.
Twin Rivers Outfitters emphasizes environmental responsibility by practicing Leave No Trace principles and supporting local conservation efforts.
Twin Rivers Outfitters, located in Buchanan, Virginia, is a river outfitter specializing in canoe and kayak trips on the James River and surrounding waterways. The business offers a range of experiences from self-guided boat rentals to guided multi-day canoe camping trips and short day paddles. Trip options include full-day boat rentals ("Rent and Go") for experienced paddlers, multi-mile guided runs such as the 5-mile Springwood to Buchanan and 6-mile Buchanan to Arcadia trips, and extended 3-day/2-night itineraries from Buchanan to Glasgow and Glen Wilton to Buchanan. Overnight adventures feature private camping sites, supplied gear on selected multi-day trips, and options to end trips at vehicle take-out points. Several trips include safety orientations and all required equipment; the 5-mile and 10.5-mile options specifically note gear and safety briefings, and the 10.5-mile trip provides a scenic shuttle return. For campers, Gala River Front Campground on a working dairy farm offers drive-in and paddle-in access, picnic tables, and fire rings at Sites #8 and #12. Short overnight trips, such as the 2-day/1-night Buchanan to Alpine and Eagle Rock to Buchanan runs, combine fishing, class II rapids, and private camping. Trip lengths and difficulty range from beginner-friendly Class I riffles to Class II rapids, making options suitable for families, anglers, and experienced paddlers. Reservations and specific trip details, including gear lists, difficulty ratings, and take-out times, are available from the outfitter in Buchanan, Virginia.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters