9-Mile Kayak or Canoe Trip on the James River
A self-guided James River paddle with Class I & II rapids
Duration
3.5 to 5 hours
Includes
Boat, gear, shuttles
Highlights
Explore nine miles of the James River on a self-guided paddle through mountain scenery and Class I & II rapids. Take on the challenging Class II Ritchie's Falls and pause to fish or picnic along the route.
- Navigate Class I and II rapids, including Ritchie's Falls
- Explore a designated State Scenic River section
- Fish along the route with your own gear and license
- Picnic riverside with a lunch and drinks you pack
Itinerary
- Customer check in at the retail store and verify all paperwork is finalized.
- Gear issue at the Boat Barn: guests are issued dry bags, dry boxes, life jackets, and river maps.
- Trip safety/orientation briefing in the classroom covering river safety, maps, and significant rapids.
- Shuttle to Horseshoe Bend Boat Landing (about a 15-minute drive).
- River trip: paddle approximately 9 river miles to Buchanan.
- Trip ending: exit the river at the ramp below the shop and return rental gear to the Boat Barn.
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
- Minimum party size of 2 people
- Ages 6+ only
- Requires swimming ability and comfort in the water
- Requires navigating Class II rapids without assistance
- Wear secured river footwear; no flip-flops or bare feet
- No alcohol is allowed on the river
Cancellation Policy
Receive a full refund with at least 96 hours' notice. No refunds are provided with less notice, and no-shows are charged in full. Receive a full refund if the trip is canceled due to high water, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.
FAQs
No. This is an unguided trip; staff will not accompany you on the river.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your reservation time. Check in by your trip start time so you can join the scheduled shuttle and safety orientation.
Arrive dressed for the river (typically a swimsuit, T-shirt, and quick-drying shorts). Wear footwear like old tennis shoes or river sandals with ankle straps (no flip-flops or bare feet). Bring a picnic lunch, plenty of non-breakable drinks, sunscreen, and any needed medications. Leave a towel, change of clothes, and dry shoes in your car.
Meeting details
Twin Rivers Outfitters Main Store, 640 Lowe Street, Buchanan, VA 24066
