Whitewater Challengers offers thrilling rafting trips and camping on the Lehigh River in Weatherly, PA. Perfect for families, scouts, and adventure seekers looking to ride accessible rapids and unwind under open skies.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–4 hours per rafting trip
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical shape able to sit and paddle for several hours and handle quick movements
Wildlife
History
The Lehigh River corridor was historically a coal and lumber transport route, transforming over time into a major recreation destination.
Conservation
Whitewater Challengers partners with local groups to maintain river health and promotes Leave No Trace principles among visitors.
Whitewater Challengers
Whitewater Challengers offers thrilling rafting trips and camping on the Lehigh River in Weatherly, PA. Perfect for families, scouts, and adventure seekers looking to ride accessible rapids and unwind under open skies.
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 a properly fitted life jacket
Safety on the water starts with a life jacket that fits snugly and is Coast Guard approved.
Arrive early for orientation
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your trip to attend briefings and get equipped without rush.
Hydrate before and after rafting
Whitewater activity can be physically demanding, so staying hydrated will keep energy levels up.
Prepare for changing weather
Bring layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable whether the sun shines or a storm rolls in.
Water shoes
Protect your feet and improve grip on slippery river rocks during rafting and transfers.
summer
Quick-dry clothing
Wear synthetic fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly to stay comfortable on and off the water.
spring|summer|fall
Base layers
Bring lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers to keep warm during crisp mornings and cooler afternoons.
fall|spring
Waterproof jacket
Weather on the river changes rapidly; a waterproof shell helps protect against rain and splash.
all