NESQUEHONING RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Lehigh Gorge Whitewater: 11–13 Miles of Class II–III Rapids out of Nesquehoning
A guided, full‑day (4–6 hour) rafting run through Lehigh Gorge State Park — this guide explains the route options, what rapids you’ll hit, and practical details for planning.
Lehigh Gorge Whitewater: 11–13 Miles of Class II–III Rapids out of Nesquehoning.
Race through a scenic stretch of Lehigh Gorge — a popular, guided whitewater run that covers a 13‑mile main route (with an 11‑mile upper option depending on water levels) and delivers 18 named Class II–III rapids such as Snaggletooth and Cookie Monster. The trip threads dramatic river scenery with the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles and runs on scheduled dam release dates in spring, fall, and many summer weekends, making for a wet, wild, full‑day river adventure.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Paddle 11–13 Miles Through Lehigh Gorge
Choose the full 13‑mile run or an 11‑mile upper option when conditions require it and cover scenic stretches of Lehigh Gorge State Park under the direction of experienced guides.
18 Named Class II–III Drops
The trip includes 18 action‑packed rapids—Class II–III whitewater—featuring named runs such as Bridal Veil and Pipeline alongside Snaggletooth and Cookie Monster.
Gorge Scenery with Possible Bald Eagle Sightings
Beyond the rapids, the Lehigh Gorge corridor offers dramatic river canyon scenery and opportunities to see wildlife, including bald eagles.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a full‑day outing led by experienced instructors: a guided launch (upper or lower depending on water levels), sustained paddling through a sequence of Class II–III rapids, and stretches of quieter river where scenery and wildlife come into focus. Runs operate on scheduled dam release dates in spring, fall, and many summer weekends, packing the trip into a 4–6 hour experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this run suits — and the one non‑negotiable gear rule.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trips run on scheduled dam release dates in spring, fall, and many summer weekends.
Plan for a 4–6 hour outing from meeting to finish.
Wear footwear that attaches to your feet; no flip‑flops, slides, or bare feet. Bring quick‑dry clothing, a change of dry clothes, and any personal safety items recommended by your guide.
Meet at Whitewater Rafting Adventures for check‑in and trip briefing prior to launch.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the rafting trip take?
The outing runs approximately 4–6 hours.
How many miles and what class of rapids will we run?
The guided run covers the popular 13‑mile stretch (or an 11‑mile upper option depending on water levels) and features Class II–III rapids.
How many rapids are on the route and can you name a few?
The trip runs 18 named rapids, including features known as Snaggletooth and Cookie Monster, and others like Bridal Veil and Pipeline.
When does the operator run trips?
Trips operate on scheduled dam release dates in spring, fall, and many summer weekends.
Where do I meet for the trip?
Meet at Whitewater Rafting Adventures for check‑in and the pre‑trip briefing.
What footwear is allowed on the raft?
Footwear must attach to your feet — no flip‑flops, slides, or bare feet are permitted.