Whitewater Rafting and Outdoor Adventures at Jim Thorpe Outdoors - Allentown, PA

Whitewater Rafting and Outdoor Adventures at Jim Thorpe Outdoors

Allentown, PAmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness; able to paddle actively and handle occasional physical challenges.

Overview

Jim Thorpe Outdoors offers thrilling whitewater rafting trips on the Lehigh River, set amid Pennsylvania's dramatic sandstone gorges. Discover adrenaline and history combined in this rugged outdoor destination.

Details

Jim Thorpe Outdoors brings rugged, river-driven adventure to the heart of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Gorge area. Located in the historic town of Jim Thorpe, PA, this outfit specializes in whitewater rafting trips on the Lehigh River, offering a pulse-pounding ride through Class II and III rapids against the backdrop of towering rocky cliffs and dense forests. The region’s distinctive sandstone gorge, carved over millennia, sets the stage for paddlers seeking a thrilling connection to wild water and wilderness.

Jim Thorpe Outdoors is a standout for anyone looking to tap into the outdoor energy of the Pocono Mountains region. Their raft trips range from half-day adventures ideal for beginners or families to full-day excursions that take more experienced paddlers further downstream where the river’s intensity increases. The guides combine local knowledge with rigorous safety standards, ensuring each trip strikes the right balance between excitement and security.

Beyond rafting, the company’s location in downtown Jim Thorpe means visitors can layer the river experience with hiking on nearby trails, mountain biking, or sampling the area's deep Pennsylvania Coal Region history. The town itself, a former coal mining hub, shows off Victorian architecture and a genuine small-town vibe that feels like stepping back into an earlier era.

With the Lehigh Gorge State Park direct access, this business taps into a rare combination of geological features and culturally rich surroundings, making every paddle not just an adrenaline rush but a chance to engage with the landscape’s history and ecology. For travelers seeking a reliable, locally rooted whitewater outfitter that amplifies the natural drama of northeastern Pennsylvania’s rivers and hills, Jim Thorpe Outdoors is a hard choice to beat.

Adventure Tips

Wear Secure Footwear

Opt for water shoes or sturdy sandals with straps to keep your feet protected and secure during rafting.

Listen Carefully to Guides

Pay close attention during the safety briefing—knowing paddle commands and emergency procedures is critical.

Bring Waterproof Storage

Use a dry bag for valuables and phones to keep items safe from splashes and possible submersion.

Hydrate Before Paddling

Drink plenty of water pre-trip; exertion and sun exposure can quickly dehydrate you on the river.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Glen Onoko Falls Trail - a challenging hike with striking waterfalls near the river
  • Old Mauch Chunk Incline remnants - historic railway points with views of the gorge

Wildlife

  • River otters often seen playing along quieter riverbanks
  • Bald eagles soaring above the Gorge cliffs in spring and fall

History

Jim Thorpe was once a coal mining hub known as Mauch Chunk; its Victorian-era buildings reflect its 19th-century boom.

Conservation

Lehigh Gorge State Park works to protect native ecosystems and river quality, promoting sustainable recreation and habitat preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning
Overcast midday for soft light

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook cliffs along Lehigh Gorge Trail
  • Raft launch area for action shots
  • Glen Onoko Falls for waterfall photography

What to Photograph

Dynamic river rapids
Wildlife along river edges
Historic town architecture

Recommended Gear

Water Shoes

Essential

Protects feet and provides traction on slippery rocks and raft decks.

summer specific

Quick-Dry Clothes

Essential

Keeps you comfortable on wet rides and helps prevent chafing.

summer specific

Waterproof Camera or Phone Case

Allows you to capture river moments without risking water damage.

Layered Outerwear

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler spring or fall rafting trips.

spring|fall specific

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