How do we get to and from the Hudson?
What is included in our trip?
What do we wear on the Hudson?
What can we bring?
Do we need whitewater experience for a trip on the Hudson?
Do we need to know how to swim?
Are there any age restrictions?
How deep is the water?
How big are the rapids?
When is the best time to come?
Is whitewater rafting dangerous?
What types of injuries can occur and what is done to prevent them?
How do we get to and from the Hudson?
To get to our meeting point, located in Indian Lake, follow the directions given on our website. You should arrive at 9:30 am! Once you’ve gotten to our main base, we will take care of the rest. We will get everybody suited up and ready to go and will then load on the bus for a 5 minute ride to our starting point. At the end of the day, we take out the rafts and meet the bus in North River for a 15 minute drive back to our main base. We will generally return between 3 and 4 pm.
Transportation to and from the river
All necessary safety and paddling equipment (including helmets, life-jackets, paddles, and Avon self-bailing rafts),
A New York State licensed guide
Lunch on the river
Wetsuits are available to rent (We do insist that everyone wear a wetsuit in the Spring months).
A photographer takes action shots of your group while you are out running the rapids. These will be available for purchase at the end of the day, and will be mailed.
What do we wear on the Hudson?
It depends on the season. In the spring or on cool days in the summer or fall, wet suits are suggested and can be rented for $15 at our meeting point. It is also a good idea to bring along a warm hat and non-cotton clothing to go underneath. A windbreaker or sweater can be worn as well, but avoid anything with a hood if possible. In the summer, wear what is most comfortable for you. In many cases, this will be a bathing suit and shorts and a t-shirt. One thing to remember is to avoid wearing flip flops or sandals and to bring old sneakers instead to protect your feet from any potential injuries. Lastly, hats and sunglasses are a good thing to bring along on sunny days.
It is best to bring only what you really need with you in the raft because there is always the chance that it can be lost in the river. Therefore, it’s a good idea to leave any valuables including jewelry, wallets, and cameras that are not waterproof in your car or the office. That being said, if you have any medications that you might need they should be brought with you. You should let your guide know so they are able to help you in the event of a problem. Water, extra layers, and sunscreen are also a good idea depending on the weather conditions.
Do we need whitewater experience for a trip on the Hudson?
Our trips are open to everybody. We do, however, recommend summer or fall trips for those who have not had the chance to raft before and spring trips for those who are more experience and looking for a challenge.
Do we need to know how to swim?
People of all levels of swimming ability are welcome. Everyone will be given a PFD at the beginning of the trip and be expected to wear it throughout our time on the river. If you do not feel confident in your swimming abilities, however, it is suggested that you let your guide know. They can then take measures to help you stay in the boat and to get you back in with limited swimming time if you do fall out. It can not be guaranteed that you will not end up in the river at all though, so if you feel really uncomfortable with this, you may wish to check out some of the other activities the area has to offer.
Are there any age restrictions?
For spring rafting we recommend that you be at least 14, and in the summer (depending on water levels) we recommend being 8 or above. Everyone under 18 must either have a parent present to sign the waiver or come with a pre-signed waiver.
The water level depends on the season and recent weather. Higher levels can be expected in the spring and after periods of heavy rainfall during other seasons. Depth varies at different points on the river. In the shallow parts it can be less than 4 feet deep. Regardless of the level and depth, your guide will give you instructions about what to do if you happen to “go for a swim” in it.
The Hudson offers rapids that generally range between Class III and Class V. In the spring you can expect Class IV or V rapids, which are considered to be the most demanding rapids that can be navigated without a significant risk of injury. The summer usually offers a more relaxing trip with rapids that are usually Class III or IV.
When is the best time to come?
It depends on what you’re looking for. As we said in previous questions, the water level and the intensity of the trip varies based on season and recent weather. So if you are looking for fairly constant activity and an adrenaline rush, spring is probably the time for you. If you prefer something a little more laid back and relaxing, a summer trip would be better. Warm weather usually doesn’t show up until mid- to late June and only stays until the middle of September most years, so that is also something to take into consideration. Also, remember in the summer we only offer trips Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday and in the fall only on the weekends, due to dam releases.
Is whitewater rafting dangerous?
By choosing our company, you have already reduced the risks associated with rafting. It is shown that by choosing a guided service, following the safety instructions given by your guide, and choosing a water level consistent with your ability level, the risks associated with whitewater rafting can be reduced.
What types of injuries can occur and what is done to prevent them?
With 25+ years of experience on The Hudson and an outstanding safety record, our company knows the river and what to do to keep people safe. The majority of the time, minor bumps and bruises will be the most you might suffer from a day on the river. More significant injuries are possible, but can mostly be prevented by listening to the safety instructions given by your guide at the beginning of your trip. These will include everything from how to handle your paddle to how to behave if you do fall in. The most important things to remember are to always look down river and to keep your feet up. You can also count on having a certified and experienced guide who has a guiding license in New York State as well as first aid and water safety training. They carry the necessary first aid and safety supplies with them onboard as well.
