Self-guided Rivanna paddle with shuttle and Class II ledges
4 hours
Paddle the Rivanna River from Free Bridge to Milton Landing on a self-guided route with several Class II ledges and rocky terrain. This trip is best for experienced paddlers who can read rapids and control their boat.
Minimum age is 6, and all participants must be able to swim. No alcohol, glass containers, dogs, or electronic music devices are allowed on the river. Wear water shoes or sturdy sandals with heel straps; no flip flops or bare feet.
Self-guided trips: full refund with 48 hours notice. Guided or custom trips: cancel/change at least 72 hours in advance for a refund. No-shows charged full price. If RRC cancels due to dangerous weather or unforeseen circumstances, you receive a full refund. Trips run rain or shine if conditions are safe.
Yes. This route includes several Class II ledges, so you need enough experience to read rapids and control your boat. If you’re new to river trips, you’re strongly encouraged to take a guided trip first on this section of the Rivanna.
Yes. All participants must be able to swim.
Wear water shoes, old tennis shoes, or sturdy sandals with heel straps. Do not wear flip flops, and do not go barefoot.
Unless otherwise specified at the beginning of this email you should arrive at our shop location (1520 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902,), 20 minutes prior to your scheduled trip time.
Rivanna River Company offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities that guests consistently rave about. The sauna and cold plunge experiences at Riversong Saunas are clearly the standout, with visitors praising the beautifully designed facilities, thoughtful amenities like essential oils and lavender towels, and the incredible riverside setting. The staff earns repeated mentions for being welcoming, kind, and accommodating. Beyond the sauna offerings, you'll find kayak and tube rentals for lazy river days, with reliable shuttle service to pickup points. What makes this spot special is the genuine vibe people describe. Reviewers use words like "magical" and note it feels transported to somewhere cooler than its actual location. The little touches matter here: complimentary ginger lemon tea, cozy gathering areas with fire pits between sauna sessions, and staff who make group experiences memorable. One reviewer mentioned the venue also hosts concerts and bluegrass shows, adding another dimension to the property. The river itself runs calm and slow, perfect for relaxing float trips with a cooler in tow.
My wife and I did the sauna experience and LOVED it. It was the highlight of an extended romantic weekend away. The staff was lovely and the whole experience was so relaxing. Loved doing the cold plunge with it too!
Ben Johnson
March 14, 2026
My wife and I did the sauna experience and LOVED it. It was the highlight of an extended romantic weekend away. The staff was lovely and the whole experience was so relaxing. Loved doing the cold plunge with it too!
Ben Johnson
March 14, 2026