9 Mile James River Kayak or Canoe Day Trip - Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan
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Paddle nine miles along scenic upper James River
Encounter fun class one and two rapids
Shuttle provided to upstream launch site
Flexible take out allows fishing and breaks
Full-Day Upper River Adventure Offers Scenic Paddle and Light Rapids Experience
This full-day river trip offers an exciting adventure for paddlers of all skill levels aged six and up. Guests are transported nine miles upstream to the Horseshoe Bend public boat ramp, where the journey begins before paddling downstream back to the riverfront store location.
Along the route, participants encounter a mix of Class I and II rapids, including Ritchies Falls, a notable Class II rapid that adds an extra element of excitement to the experience. The first four miles of the river are designated as a state scenic river, offering peaceful stretches of water and beautiful mountain views throughout the journey.
The trip is unguided, allowing paddlers to navigate at their own pace while following provided river maps and safety guidance. This flexible format also gives guests the freedom to take breaks along the way, fish, or enjoy the surroundings at leisure.
All necessary equipment is included in the rental price, such as boats, paddles, life jackets, dry bags, safety orientation, and shuttle transport. Participants must be able to swim, wear proper footwear, and travel with at least one companion. With a duration of approximately three and a half to five hours, the experience delivers a balanced mix of adventure, independence, and scenic river exploration.
Full-Day Upper River Adventure Offers Scenic Paddle and Light Rapids Experience
This full-day river trip offers an exciting adventure for paddlers of all skill levels aged six and up. Guests are transported nine miles upstream to the Horseshoe Bend public boat ramp, where the journey begins before paddling downstream back to the riverfront store location.
Along the route, participants encounter a mix of Class I and II rapids, including Ritchies Falls, a notable Class II rapid that adds an extra element of excitement to the experience. The first four miles of the river are designated as a state scenic river, offering peaceful stretches of water and beautiful mountain views throughout the journey.
The trip is unguided, allowing paddlers to navigate at their own pace while following provided river maps and safety guidance. This flexible format also gives guests the freedom to take breaks along the way, fish, or enjoy the surroundings at leisure.
All necessary equipment is included in the rental price, such as boats, paddles, life jackets, dry bags, safety orientation, and shuttle transport. Participants must be able to swim, wear proper footwear, and travel with at least one companion. With a duration of approximately three and a half to five hours, the experience delivers a balanced mix of adventure, independence, and scenic river exploration.
- Rental of boat and paddles
- Life jackets
- Safety orientation and river maps
- Dry bags
- Shuttles
- Food or drinks
- Twin River Staff
- Gratuities
$ 31.8
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This activity is managed by our trusted partner FareHarbor.
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Activity Provider: Twin Rivers Outfitters
Customer Reviews
They were very professional and friendly. They helped with every question we had and they were there at the beginning and end of the trip. Will definitely come back and use them again. We had a great trip kayaking Horseshoe Bend! Definitely recommend!
We had a fabulous time! The captain was very knowledgeable and made the trip upriver fun, interesting, and educational. The views while kayaking were just breathtaking and seeing mustangs grazing the river bank thrilled my daughter. I kayak a lot all over the country, and this was definitely one of the most enjoyable paddles I’ve done. Even my family, most of whom had NO interest at all, had a fabulous time and said it was a highlight of our trip.
It was an amazing experience! Be warned though, it’s about a 5 hour kayak ride back to get to the docking area again! I wish I would of been more prepared with snacks and drinks! Also, The sun will burn you completely, so bring sunscreen or long sleeves to protect yourself! Overall it was fun, my husband and I played music along the way and enjoyed the little beaches on the side of the waters. Speaking of waters! It’s super cold! I wouldn’t recommend swimming unless your up for it!
