Get ready for an exhilarating day navigating the lively rapids of Lehigh Gorge with expert guides. This private whitewater rafting trip near Weatherly, PA, is packed with adventure and breathtaking scenery.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness is recommended as the activity involves paddling and maintaining balance through rapids.
Wildlife
History
The Lehigh Gorge area played a key role in Pennsylvania’s early industrial era, once hosting railroads that served coal mining operations.
Conservation
Efforts by local organizations help maintain the river’s health and improve habitat while promoting sustainable recreation.
Whitewater Challengers
Get ready for an exhilarating day navigating the lively rapids of Lehigh Gorge with expert guides. This private whitewater rafting trip near Weatherly, PA, is packed with adventure and breathtaking scenery.
Whitewater Challengers is an outdoor adventure outfitter based in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, specializing in guided whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking on the Lehigh River. Located at the gateway to Lehigh Gorge State Park, the company offers a range of trips from family-friendly floats to premier whitewater runs that navigate rapids such as Initiation and Triple Drop. Group programming includes organized Scout events — including council Raft‑O‑Rees for Cradle of Liberty, Patriots' Path, Del‑Mar‑Va, and Girl Scouts of Central and Southern NJ — with family-style meals, evening entertainment, and Scout patches.
Experienced professional guides provide instruction, safety oversight, and all necessary equipment for day trips and special events. Inflatable kayaking options include solo and tandem crafts for both Premier and Easy whitewater sections, with guided 3–4 hour trips that include a river lunch and scenic river stops. The Whitewater Rafting Marathon offers a dawn‑to‑dusk, one‑day excursion covering over 25 miles of the Lehigh River on select Sundays from May through August. Seasonal events such as Lehigh RiverFest combine dam releases with live entertainment, paddle sports, and local trail access.
Onsite lodging options include rustic bunkhouse rentals accommodating up to eight guests per unit, providing indoor camping with wooden bunk beds for groups and families. Whitewater Challengers emphasizes guided, safety-focused river experiences and multi-day event logistics, making it a reliable choice for scout groups, families, and paddling enthusiasts seeking organized adventure in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Location
Weatherly, PA
Gateway to the Lehigh River
Trips Offered
11 Trip Types
Rafting, kayaking, camping, rentals
Group Friendly
Scout Events
Multiple council Raft‑O‑Rees
Bunkhouse Capacity
Up to 8 Guests
Rustic indoor camping option
Reserve guided whitewater rafting, inflatable kayaking, Scout Raft‑O‑Rees, or bunkhouse lodging to secure dates for spring and summer river releases.
Wear quick-dry clothing
Choosing clothes that dry fast helps you stay comfortable during and after your rafting trip.
Listen carefully to your guide
Following safety instructions is crucial for a fun and safe whitewater rafting experience.
Bring waterproof protection for electronics
Use waterproof cases or dry bags to protect phones and cameras from water damage.
Expect changing weather
Weather in the gorge can shift quickly; check forecasts and be prepared with extra layers.
Quick-dry clothing
Helps keep you comfortable and prevents chafing during the trip.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky riverbeds and provides good grip on wet surfaces.
Waterproof phone case
Keeps your electronics safe from splashes and accidental drops in the water.
Insulating layers
Keeps you warm during cooler early spring launches when the water temperature is low.
spring