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    5. Paddle Class II Rapids on the Rivanna in Charlottesville
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    Paddle Class II Rapids on the Rivanna in Charlottesville

    Self-guided Rivanna paddle with shuttle and Class II ledges

    From$51/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    4 hours

    Highlights

    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.

    • Navigate Class II ledges and sections with rocky terrain
    • Follow the Rivanna as it cuts through the Southwest Mountains
    • Learn about historic dam remains and “Jefferson’s River”
    • Watch for wildlife as the river moves into quieter stretches
    • Use the provided shuttle service for your downriver route

    What's Included

    • Shuttle service
    • One dry bag per group

    Things to know

    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.

    Cancellation Policy

    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.

    FAQs

    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.

    Meeting details

    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.

    Experience provided by Rivanna River Company
    Experience provided by Rivanna River Company

    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 (650) 414-7338

    Report an issue

    Reference #E6CTCH

    Single Sit on Top Kayak

    $51.20

    Our preferred boat on the Rivanna River

    0

    Tandem Kayak Paddler

    $47.86

    This is a PER PERSON reservation. Total maximum weight limit for tandem kayaks is 325 lbs.

    0

    Canoe Paddler

    $47.86

    Our most dangerous vessel, previous experience required. This is a PER PERSON reservation.

    0

    Shuttle Only

    $34.50

    0

    Under 12 Tandem Kayak Paddler

    $40.07

    Under 12 years old. This is a PER PERSON reservation.

    0

    Under 12 Canoe Paddler

    $40.07

    Under 12 years old. This is a PER PERSON reservation.

    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

    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.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    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!

    Photo of Ben Johnson

    Ben Johnson

    March 14, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    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!

    Photo of Ben Johnson

    Ben Johnson

    March 14, 2026

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