Recreation / RaftADK
From the classic Hudson River Gorge to family-friendly floats through an ancient chasm, there's a Dacks water trip for every appetite.
Compare the riversOur experience
If you're looking for a unique way to see the Adirondack Park, a guided rafting trip is hard to beat. Here's what it looked like when we took on the Gorge ourselves.
Choose your water
Difficulty changes with water level. Ask your outfitter what to expect on your date.
| Trip | Character | Typical rapids | Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hudson River Gorge | Remote wilderness classic | Class III to IV, bigger in spring | Indian Lake and North Creek area |
| Lower Moose River | Short season, experienced rafters | Class IV to V | Old Forge |
| Sacandaga River | Dam-released and mellow | Class I to III | Lake Luzerne |
| Ausable Chasm | Scenic float through a gorge | Light rapids | Near Plattsburgh |
The classic
The granddaddy of Adirondack rafting. Trips run roughly 15 to 17 miles through a remote gorge, beginning on the Indian River below the Lake Abanakee dam and finishing near North River. Dam releases add water through the season, and named rapids like Blue Ledges give the day its reputation. Book ahead for spring weekends.
For the adventurous
Big drops near Old Forge in a short, snowmelt-driven window, usually in spring. This one is for fit rafters who ideally have prior Class IV experience, and who plan ahead with an outfitter.
Family friendly
A shorter run below Stewarts Bridge Dam near Lake Luzerne. Dam releases make it a reliable summer option, and milder water makes it a good first trip for families.
The scenic experience
Guided floats through the Grand Flume, past towering sandstone cliffs and formations like the Sentry Box and Broken Needle, with light rapids and a scenic glide to the landing. Less adrenaline, more awe.
Plan your Ausable Chasm visitReady to book? Browse Adirondack rafting outfitters and confirm age minimums, release schedules and what's included.
When to go
For thrill-seekers. Snowmelt swells the rivers, with cold water and big waves. Outfitters commonly set their highest age minimums now.
The water warms and levels settle down. A good time for families and first-timers.
Arguably the most scenic time to be on the water, with autumn color along the banks. Availability depends on the river, so confirm dates early.
What to wear and bring
Spring: wetsuits, neoprene booties and splash jackets. Most outfitters provide these, but confirm ahead of time.
Summer: quick-dry synthetics, secure river shoes and plenty of sunscreen.
After: a dry change of clothes and a warm hoodie for the ride home.
Shop Adirondack hoodies
Good to know
Not for most trips. Outfitters provide professional guides who walk you through everything before you launch. The Lower Moose is the exception, and is best suited to fit rafters with prior whitewater experience.
Hudson River Gorge trips typically stage from the Indian Lake and North Creek area, Moose River trips from Old Forge, and Sacandaga trips near Lake Luzerne. Ausable Chasm floats depart from Table Rock inside the chasm.
Rafting carries real risk, so choosing the right water matters. The Sacandaga and Ausable Chasm floats are the usual picks for families. Ausable Chasm lists a 30-pound minimum. Age minimums on the Hudson and Moose vary by outfitter and season, so ask before you book.
For guided whitewater trips, book ahead, especially for spring weekends. Ausable Chasm has not taken reservations for raft tours, so check their site and arrive early.
Prefer a quieter paddle?
Some of the best days on the water happen at a much slower pace, on glassy lakes, winding rivers and remote shorelines.
Explore paddling
Estd 2011 · Take the Adirondacks with you.
