Whitewater Rafting & Bike Rentals with Jim Thorpe River Adventures - Allentown, PA

Whitewater Rafting & Bike Rentals with Jim Thorpe River Adventures

Allentown, PAmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic endurance and the ability to paddle while following safety instructions; minimal prior experience needed for intro trips.

Overview

Jim Thorpe River Adventures offers thrilling whitewater rafting and versatile bike rentals on the Lehigh River near Lehighton, PA. Perfect for novices and seasoned paddlers alike, their expert guides make every trip safe, exciting, and unforgettable.

Details

Jim Thorpe River Adventures is a standout presence in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, offering dynamic whitewater rafting and bike rental experiences for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Based in Lehighton, just minutes from the historic town of Jim Thorpe, the company specializes in guided rafting trips down the Lehigh River, renowned for its challenging class II and III rapids and diverse terrain. For beginners, the Intro to Whitewater trip offers a safe yet exciting introduction to navigating flowing currents, while BigTime Whitewater intensifies the thrill for more experienced paddlers ready to tackle faster water and technical maneuvers.

The Lehigh River carves through rugged forested landscapes and exposed sandstone cliffs, creating dramatic vistas that make every paddle stroke memorable. Beyond the adrenaline of rafting, Jim Thorpe River Adventures provides bike rentals—perfect for those who want to complement river time with scenic rides along nearby trails or old rail lines. This adaptability sets them apart in an outdoor recreation area better known for passive hiking or fishing.

Customers regularly highlight the professionalism, warmth, and expertise of the guides and staff who ensure safety and personal attention from detailed pre-trip training to smooth shuttle services. Families, scout troops, and solo adventurers alike return year after year, often praising how the trip balances energetic whitewater action with stunning natural surroundings and a genuine local vibe.

Jim Thorpe and Lehighton serve as gateways to the Pocono Mountains, with abundant outdoor opportunities, museums, and rich Pennsylvania coal region history. Whether braving whitewater for the first time or renting a bike for an afternoon of exploration, visitors find Jim Thorpe River Adventures an ideal hub to engage with one of northeastern Pennsylvania’s best-kept outdoor playgrounds.

Adventure Tips

Wear a Secure Personal Flotation Device

Jim Thorpe River Adventures provides PFDs, but ensuring a snug fit is critical to safety when navigating whitewater rapids.

Reserve Early for Weekend Trips

Popular summer weekends book quickly due to high demand; advance reservations can secure your preferred date and gear options.

Consider Water-Resistant Layers

Water jackets and booties are available for rent and highly recommended during chillier weather or spring melt conditions.

Prepare for Bike Terrain Variety

Bike rentals accommodate trails ranging from paved park lanes to gravel paths, so choose based on your comfort level and experience.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The Glen Onoko Falls trail — scenic waterfalls just upstream on the Lehigh River
  • Mauch Chunk Lake Park — a quiet spot for picnics and birdwatching near Jim Thorpe

Wildlife

  • River otters frequently spotted along calmer water sections
  • Bald eagles soaring overhead in the Pocono foothills

History

Jim Thorpe town sits in the historic coal region of Pennsylvania with roots tied to early coal mining and railroads shaping the valley.

Conservation

The company supports river stewardship initiatives aimed at maintaining water quality and habitat health for native flora and fauna.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Lehigh River launch site
  • Point of rapid BigTime Whitewater class III section
  • Overlook near Jim Thorpe downtown

What to Photograph

Dynamic river rapids
Rocky sandstone cliffs
Guide-led rafters in action

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm and dry during cool and wet spring rafting conditions.

spring specific

Secure Water Shoes or Booties

Essential

Protects feet from rocky riverbeds while providing grip inside the raft.

summer specific

Helmet

Essential

Provided by guides, helmets protect against potential impacts on rapids.

Paddle Gloves

Help reduce blisters and maintain grip during cooler paddling sessions.

fall specific

Reviews