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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Charlottesville…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Kayaking Tours
    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

    4.8 stars• 220 reviews

    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.

    Product ID: E6CTCH

    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

    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 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    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

    Why book through Greetwell?

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      No booking or service fees, ever

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      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

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    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    220 reviews•Google Maps
    200
    9
    2
    1
    4

    This riverside spot in Charlottesville has built a loyal following around a surprisingly diverse mix of activities, from sauna and cold plunge sessions to kayaking, tubing, paintball, and live music. The common thread across all of it is genuinely warm, attentive staff who seem to care about making each visit memorable. Thoughtful details like essential oils, ginger lemon tea, lavender towels, and a gathering fire between sauna sessions show real intention behind the experience. The sauna and cold plunge offering draws especially passionate reviews, with couples and groups alike calling it deeply relaxing and beautifully designed. The setting along the Rivanna River adds a natural backdrop that elevates even the simpler activities. Paintball gets a shoutout for being a great outlet for high-energy groups, though fair warning from regulars: long sleeves and pants are a must. With a near-perfect rating across a large number of reviews, this place clearly delivers consistently and is worth adding to your plans.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!

    Photo of Heather G

    Heather G

    August 22, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!

    Photo of Heather G

    Heather G

    August 22, 2026

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