NESQUEHONING RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Easy Rapids, Big Smiles: 11 Miles of Family-Friendly Whitewater in the Lehigh Gorge
A measured, splash-forward run down 11 miles of Class I–II rapids on the Lehigh River — this guide explains what the EZ Whitewater trip covers and who it suits.
Easy Rapids, Big Smiles: 11 Miles of Family-Friendly Whitewater in the Lehigh Gorge.
EZ Whitewater in Nesquehoning delivers an approachable whitewater experience through the scenic Lehigh Gorge, combining splashy, family-friendly rapids with steady river miles that suit first-timers and children alike.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Eleven Miles of Lehigh River
The trip winds an 11-mile section of the Lehigh River through Lehigh Gorge State Park, paced for families and newcomers rather than technical running.
Gentle, Splashy Whitewater (Class I–II)
A sequence of Class I and II rapids — including named features like Deaton’s Demise, Canaries and Last Chance — provides excitement without the intensity of Class III running.
A Trip Built for Families and First-Timers
Marketed for families and novices, the EZ Whitewater run delivers the thrill of whitewater with an emphasis on safety and splash-friendly fun.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a relaxed but engaging float: long river stretches punctuated by a series of playful Class I and II rapids, ample opportunity for splashing and swimming in summer, and scenery that keeps the rhythm between calm water and brief surges of whitewater.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this run suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This 11‑mile section is run on scheduled dam release dates, with availability in Spring and Fall; the summer trip includes swimming and splashing elements.
Expect about 4 hours on the river and roughly 6 hours total for the outing.
Meet at Whitewater Rafting Adventures for check-in and start-of-day logistics.
Operators provide specific gear guidance; confirm required kit and any luggage or clothing recommendations with Whitewater Rafting Adventures before arrival.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the EZ Whitewater trip?
The trip takes about 4 hours on the river and roughly 6 hours in total.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The trip is open to children ages 6 and up.
What difficulty are the rapids?
The run features Class I and II rapids.
Where does the trip start?
The run begins at Glen Onoko in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, within Lehigh Gorge State Park and continues downstream for 11 miles on the Lehigh River.
When is this section of river available to run?
This section is available on scheduled dam release dates in Spring and Fall; the summer trip includes swimming and splashing.
What notable rapids will we encounter?
The itinerary includes rapids named Deaton’s Demise, Canaries and Last Chance among the Class I–II features.