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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Buchanan…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Kayaking Tours
    5. /10.5-Mile James River Kayak & Canoe Trip
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    10.5-Mile James River Kayak & Canoe Trip

    Tackle Class I–II rapids on a scenic Upper James River paddle

    4.9 stars• 699 reviews

    Duration

    5–6 hours

    Ideal For

    4+ people

    Includes

    Boat rental, safety gear, shuttle

    Highlights

    Explore 10.5 miles of the Upper James River Water Trail through mountain and wilderness scenery. Paddle a more challenging full-day route with frequent Class I and II rapids.

    • Paddle through Class I and II rapids
    • Take in mountain and wilderness views
    • Use the return shuttle from Alpine boat landing
    • Choose a canoe, kayak, raft, or bring your own canoe or kayak

    What's Included

    • Boat rental
    • Paddles
    • Life jackets
    • Safety orientation
    • River maps
    • Dry bags and required shuttles

    Important details

    • Arrive 15 minutes before your reservation time
    • Return to the Alpine boat landing for the mandatory 3:30 PM pickup
    • Wear river-ready clothing and secure river footwear; flip-flops and bare feet are not allowed
    • Bring a picnic lunch, plenty of non-breakable drink containers, and any necessary medications
    • Alcohol is not allowed on the river
    • Complete the liability waiver before check-in

    Cancellation Policy

    Full refund with at least 96 hours' notice. No refunds with less notice or for no-shows. Full refund if the operator cancels due to high water, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.

    Product ID: VHQRJX

    FAQs

    Plan around the mandatory 3:30 PM pickup time for the return shuttle.

    Arrive dressed for the river (swimsuit, T-shirt, quick-drying shorts). In cooler weather, wear clothing that keeps you warm when wet (such as polypropylene). Bring old tennis shoes or river sandals with ankle straps (no flip-flops or bare feet), plus water in non-breakable containers, sunscreen, and a picnic lunch if you want one.

    No. Alcohol is not allowed.

    Meeting details

    Twin Rivers Outfitters Main Store, 640 Lowe Street, Buchanan, VA 24066

    Experience provided by Twin Rivers Outfitters

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Customer in a Canoe

    $48.97

    All prices per person. Maximum 2 person per canoe.

    0

    Sit-on-Top Single Kayak

    $48.97

    One person per kayak

    0

    Sit-Inside Single Kayak

    $48.97

    One person per kayak

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    699 reviews•Google Maps
    588
    33
    10
    3
    8

    Robert, John, and the rest of the crew here have built something genuinely special on the James River. The multi-day glamping kayak trips get the most praise, with reviewers raving about how thoroughly the staff prepares guests before they ever hit the water. Detailed maps, personalized route briefings, gear transport between campsites, and mid-river check-ins all point to an operation that has clearly thought through every detail. The glamping setups themselves seem to consistently impress, with raised platform tents, cots, fire pits, and river views making for a comfortable overnight experience without sacrificing the adventure. Single-day kayak and tubing trips get high marks too, with staff earning repeated praise for making first-timers feel confident and welcome. The customer service extends well beyond the trip itself, with reviewers noting how flexible and accommodating the team is when plans change. Honestly, the reviews here are remarkably consistent in their enthusiasm, which is saying something across hundreds of trips. If you are looking for a well-organized river outfitter where the staff genuinely cares about your experience, this appears to be a standout choice in the region.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Me and two of my girls had an absolutely amazing River float with Twin River outfitters! From the friendliness of the staff to the quality of the equipment and the great instruction everything was top notch! We will definitely bring more friends for another trip!

    Photo of Tracy Zoeller

    Tracy Zoeller

    August 31, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Me and two of my girls had an absolutely amazing River float with Twin River outfitters! From the friendliness of the staff to the quality of the equipment and the great instruction everything was top notch! We will definitely bring more friends for another trip!

    Photo of Tracy Zoeller

    Tracy Zoeller

    August 31, 2026

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