9-Mile James River Kayak & Canoe Trip in Buchanan
Paddle 9 miles of Class I–II rapids with a shuttle to Horseshoe Bend
Duration
3.5 - 5 hours
Includes
Boat rental, PFD, shuttle
Highlights
Paddle a self-guided 9-mile stretch of the James River from Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan, with Class I & II rapids along the way. You’ll launch upstream after a shuttle and finish back at the riverside shop where your car is parked.
- Choose a kayak, canoe, or raft for a 3.5–5 hour river trip
- Ride a shuttle upstream to Horseshoe Bend public boat ramp to launch
- Paddle Class I & II rapids including Ritchie’s Falls
- Finish at the Buchanan storefront for flexible take-out timing
- Bring lunch and drinks for a full half-day on the water
What's Included
- Boat rental
- Paddles
- Life jackets
- Safety orientation
- River maps
- Dry bags
- Required shuttles
Things to know
Minimum of 2 people per party. Ages 6+ only, and everyone must be able to swim and be comfortable in the water; footwear is required. No alcohol is allowed on the river per Virginia state law.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund with 4 days advance notice. Full refund if the outfitter 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.
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 River Shop 640 Lowe Street Buchanan, VA 24066
