Gaines Shuttle: Scenic Pine Creek Paddle in Wellsboro, PA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with moderate fitness; minimal paddling effort needed as current assists your float.
Overview
Discover the thrill of paddling down Upper Pine Creek with the Gaines Shuttle near Wellsboro, PA. Enjoy stunning waterfalls and wildlife on an easy 8-mile float perfect for all skill levels.
Gaines Shuttle
Shuttle Only | 2-3 hours | 8 miles
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of paddling down the scenic Upper Pine Creek! This shuttle service transports you and your gear to Gaines, where you can float back 8 miles, enjoying stunning waterfalls, rock cliffs, and wildlife. Perfect for beginners and intermediates, this adventure promises unforgettable moments on the water.
This is a Shuttle Service for personal boats.
Please see Boat and Shuttle Combo if you need equipment.
$15/ person
Shuttle runs from 9am-2pm.
PCO loads you and your personal gear, drives you west to Gaines, you then float the 8 miles back to Pine Creek Outfitters.
The Upper Pine Creek is a 13 mile section of Pine Creek that is perfect for beginners and intermediate paddlers. The Upper Pine Creek has shorter trips than the 17 mile canyon but just as scenic - some even prefer this stretch over the much longer PA Grand Canyon. This part of Pine Creek features many natural waterfalls, rock cliffs, nesting bald eagles, and excellent fishing. There is also plenty of fun class I/II rapids.
Please check Pine Creek's water conditions a few days before your trip.
Pine Creek Outfitters runs Rain or Shine! There is no such thing as bad weather- just bad gear.
There is a non-refundable $10 per person processing fee.
-Customers will only be issued a refund with 48 hour notice (minus $10/ person). -Customers with less than 48 hour notice will not receive a refund.
Customers will receive a full credit or refund in case of Operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Pine Creek Outfitters reserves the right to cancel any event due to these or any other reasons. Contact us by phone to cancel. No-shows will be charged the full price. Late arrivals (over 15 minutes) may be considered a no-show. -Changes and/ or Rebookings may be charged additional processing fees.
Adventure Tips
Book Your Shuttle in Advance
Pine Creek Outfitters’ shuttle service is popular and can fill up quickly, so reserve your spot early to secure your preferred date.
Wear Water-Friendly Footwear
Choose shoes that dry quickly and provide traction on wet surfaces to stay comfortable when launching and exiting the water.
Apply Sunscreen Even on Cloudy Days
UV rays reflect off the water, increasing exposure, so sunscreen is critical for skin protection during your paddle.
Pack a Dry Bag
Keep your phone, snacks, and valuables dry by storing them in a waterproof dry bag during the float trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Great blue heron
History
Upper Pine Creek was historically a key route for lumber transport in the 19th century, shaping Wellsboro’s development.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and protect native species have helped preserve Pine Creek’s natural environment for paddlers.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Williamsport
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A required safety item providing buoyancy and essential protection on the water.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Protects your belongings from water during your float trip.
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during longer exposure on the water, especially in spring and summer.
spring specific
Hydration Pack
Keeps you hydrated during warm paddling days.
summer specific