Paddle 10.5 miles of Class I–II rapids on the Upper James River
5 - 6 Hours
4 or more people
Boat rental, shuttle, gear
Explore a 10.5-mile stretch of the Upper James River Water Trail with Class I and II rapids and mountain scenery. This full-day run starts in Buchanan and finishes at the Alpine boat landing with a required shuttle back.
Minimum group size is 4 people. Return shuttle pickup time is mandatory at 3:30 PM. No alcohol allowed.
Full refund with 4 days advance notice. Full refund if Twin River Outfitters cancels due to high water levels, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Outfitter. No refunds with less than 4 days notice. No-shows charged full price.
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.
640 Lowe Street Buchanan, VA 24066
Twin River Outfitters stands out for its exceptionally organized operation and genuinely friendly staff. Multiple reviewers mention how thoroughly prepared they felt before hitting the water, thanks to detailed maps, safety briefings, and knowledgeable guides who explain river obstacles. The equipment is consistently described as top-notch, and the staff goes above and beyond with things like declining tips and showing remarkable flexibility with weather-related reschedules (including full refunds when needed). Several paddlers specifically note the professionalism paired with a personal, welcoming touch. The James River trips themselves sound beautiful and peaceful, with clean water, wildlife sightings including turtles and ospreys, and manageable rapids. The glamping option gets rave reviews for its well-equipped wall tents and gear transfer service, which lets you paddle without being weighed down by camping equipment. Whether you're booking a multi-day adventure or a simple half-day paddle, the operation runs smoothly from start to finish. Repeat customers keep coming back, and that tells you everything you need to know.
This was an absolute amazing adventure!! We loved it!! We did the 6 mile kayak excursion. (Sit on top kayaks) The rapids were fun and not too much to handle. The staff were so friendly and explained things well! They have you call and check in at a certain point to make sure you are doing okay. It’s a smooth running outfit!
Cheryl Shaffer
May 18, 2026
This was an absolute amazing adventure!! We loved it!! We did the 6 mile kayak excursion. (Sit on top kayaks) The rapids were fun and not too much to handle. The staff were so friendly and explained things well! They have you call and check in at a certain point to make sure you are doing okay. It’s a smooth running outfit!
Cheryl Shaffer
May 18, 2026