Experiences.com: Many people may not know enough to judge or care about the quality of your equipment at Pocono Whitewater . Tell us about your equipment and why it matters.
We use commercial grade whitewater rafts and coast-guard approved life jackets. For the safety & enjoyment of our guests, it is important that our equipment is checked before and after each trip that leaves our whitewater rafting center. We are also one of the few company’s in the outdoor recreation industry that employs a full-time maintenance crew for raft inspection and repair. Guest safety is our top priority therefore we have top of the line equipment and experienced staff to ensure a great day on the river!
Experiences.com:What are the project dates for Pocono Whitewater white water rafting season?
Our whitewater rafting season here at Pocono Whitewater runs daily from the last weekend in March through October.
Experiences.com: What class rapids does your company run?
We run the Lehigh River in the Pocono Mountains of Jim Thorpe, PA which is a class II, III river and the Hudson River in the Adirondack State Park of North Creek, NY which is a class IV+ river.
Experiences.com: Describe your most popular family rafting experience?
poOur most popular family rafting experience is the “Family-Style Section of the Lehigh River” in Jim Thorpe, PA. This is an eight mile section of the river that is simply perfect for beginners, church groups, school groups, scouts, and kids ages 4 and older. Three to four hours long, the plentiful riffles and mild water of the Lehigh River are occasionally interspersed with a touch of Class II whitewater. This is just a great adventure for enjoying the passing scenery, kicking your feet over the edge of the raft, or taking a swim in the river! One of the most unique things about our summer family-style rafting trips is our FREE RIVERSIDE BARBECUE* – cooked and served in our very own riverside meadow. Here you will find hotdogs, potato salad, watermelon, etc…the classic family picnic! *BBQ is served daily from June 1st thru Labor Day. Bring your family and friends. It’s so easy and everything you need for a fun day is provided.
Experiences.com: Describe your most challenging rafting experience?
Well our most challenging rafting experience on the Lehigh River in Jim Thorpe, PA would be our Dam Release Whitewater Rafting Adventure. Surrounded by state park protected woodlands and mountains, you will enjoy 12 miles and 5 hours of Class III whitewater rafting and outstanding scenery. This is a fun, thrilling, and pristine trip that everyone from ages 8 and up can do…no experience necessary! While paddling over 17 rapids you’ll scream, laugh, swim, and have an excellent day.
The Hudson River would be the adventure we recommend after you have tried out the Lehigh River in Pennsylvania. Our most exciting wilderness trip, the Hudson River Gorge runs through the “forever wild” Adirondack State Park. No macadam roads here…just the magnificent Adirondack Mountains and premier whitewater rafting. This region is so beautiful, even the nearby New York Thruway is known as one of America’s most scenic highways. Launching from the Inn at Gore Mountain, this excursion offers magnificent scenery and virtual isolation from the civilized world. The majestic Adirondack Mountains rise from the riverbanks, commanding an audience with all who enter the jagged domain. The most adventurous rafting enthusiast will be put to the test as the fierce Class IV+ whitewater rapids vie for control of your raft.
Experiences.com: What water sports or outdoor activities do you offer?
We offer mild-to-wild whitewater rafting on both the Lehigh and Hudson Rivers, Rail-Trail Biking (rentals & shuttles) through the Lehigh Gorge State Park, and also Skirmish – the largest paintball facility in the world!
Experiences.com: Do you offer any unique adventures, or package deals?
Absolutely. We offer a variety of specialty trips such as Moonlight Rafting, Sunset Biking, Big Day Out (raft, bike, & hike in one day), Bike, Wine & Dine, Battles & Paddles (paintball & rafting), etc. We also have several lodging packages available with the local hotels, b & b’s, campgrounds, & rental home agents.
Experiences.com: Describe a particular memorable rafting experience?
All of our rafting guest have wonderful memories from spending a day on the river with their family and friends but one of my favorites was helping organize a trip for a group of wounded veterans – The Wounded Warrior Project. These men and women had sustained severe injuries in Afghanistan and it was a wonderful feeling to support the organization, show them that they can still enjoy an active lifestyle and feel empowered as they paddled through the rapids of the Lehigh. There isn’t a better feeling than giving back to those that serve our country.
Experiences.com: I’m anxious or hesitant to experience rafting rapids. What can you say to help calm my fears or concerns?
It is natural to be a bit anxious prior to your whitewater rafting adventure, especially if you have never participated in the sport before. Pocono Whitewater is family-owned and operated for over 30 years. From your first phone call to your arrival on the river, our staff will guide you every step of the way and be there if you need them. We have maintained an excellent safety record, have top of the line equipment, and provide professional river guides that accompany each trip. We have a variety of river trip options and will help you choose what trip best fits your lifestyle…mild to wild – ages four and up – and no experience necessary.
Experiences.com: Please describe your view on the experience of White Water Rafting.
Whitewater Rafting is an excellent adventure that anyone can do. It is an exciting way to spend the day with family and friends, enjoy your beautiful surroundings, and get a bit of exercise too. Pocono Whitewater – We’re Fun, Healthy, Green, & Close to Home!!
Special thanks to Niki Hurley from Pocono Whitewater for providing us with this interview