Whitewater · Pennsylvania
Whitewater in Pennsylvania
8 operators across Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania paddling
Pennsylvania offers an exceptional diversity of paddling experiences, from serene flatwater lakes and expansive rivers to thrilling whitewater rapids. The eastern regions feature the iconic Delaware River, ideal for multi-day canoe and kayak trips, alongside its numerous tributaries. Central Pennsylvania is dominated by the vast Susquehanna River system, providing endless miles for exploration and wildlife viewing. To the west, the Allegheny River winds through the remote Allegheny National Forest, offering wilderness paddling opportunities, while the Laurel Highlands boast world-class whitewater on the Youghiogheny River.
The Pocono Mountains region in the northeast is a prime destination, renowned for its challenging whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River, particularly through the dramatic Lehigh Gorge State Park. Beyond the rapids, numerous pristine lakes like Lake Wallenpaupack offer expansive flatwater for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, often surrounded by lush forests and charming towns. This blend of calm and exhilarating waters ensures that paddlers of all skill levels can find suitable adventures.
About whitewater
Whitewater kayaking and rafting: rapids by class, from beginner Class I–II to expert Class IV+.
Quick facts
- Best season
- April through November
Operators
Whitewater operators
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Resources
More to explore in Whitewater
Hand-picked videos and free guides from the community to help you plan your next trip.
Videos worth watching
Hand-picked clips, sorted by what you do.
Getting Started in Whitewater Kayaking
River Kings
3 Techniques All Whitewater Kayakers Should Practice
PaddleTV
Whitewater Kayaking for Beginners: the Forward Stroke
Boyd Ruppelt
Kayak Instruction - Reading the River
River Kings
EJ's Whitewater Kayak Instruction- How To Paddle Through Waves
Eric Jackson
Whitewater Kayak Skills Practice on Class II
Wildwater River Guides
Guides worth reading
Trip briefs, prep checklists, and how-tos. Free to read.
Whitewater Kayaking for Beginners: Class II-III Guide
Jul 2026
How to Roll a Kayak: Learn the Kayak Roll Step by Step
Jul 2026
How to Paddle Moving Water: Ferry, Eddy Turn & Peel Out Safely
Jul 2026
Best Sea Kayaking Destinations on the Pacific Coast
Jul 2026
Free tools
Your free outdoor toolkit
Everything Map
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Open Everything MapRiver Explorer
Explore named rivers from the USGS hydrography dataset. Filter by water type or whitewater class.
Open River ExplorerRoute Planner
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Open Route PlannerPaddling Clubs
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Open Photo IDGear Checklists
Printable, save-as-you-go packing lists. Tick items off and pull them up on your phone.
Open Gear Checklists
