James River Rafting

Sure, the Maury, which is part of James River watershed, can hit a passionate Class IV. But for the most part this is a world of easy rapids—great for beginners who are looking to build confidence. Strap a boat onto your car top and noodle around the James' languid rural curves and eddies. Closer to Richmond, the James gifts paddlers with a surprisingly boisterous series of Class III-IV whitewater that cuts straight through downtown. The river here owes its whitewater chops to the geologic shift between the lofty plates of the Appalachian Mountains and lower Atlantic coastal plan. The river's resulting waves, ledges, and drops make for a convenient entryway into the fun world of river rafting. Currently the only operator offering guided trips on the James is Richmond-based Riverside Outfitters (www.riversideoutfitters.net).