Free Concierge Service
    Text or call (650) 414-7338
    Ask AIAI
    Ask AIAI
    1. Local experiences/
    2. Things to do in Covington…/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Kayaking Tours/
    5. 10-Mile Upper Jackson River Paddle Trip in Covington
    Why travelers choose Greetwell

    Curated by our team

    Every experience is hand selected and approved by Greetwell.

    Personal concierge

    Real humans available to help before, during, and after your booking.

    Intimate & authentic

    Including unique in-home experiences you won't find anywhere else.

    Easy booking & cancellation

    Reserve in minutes with free cancellation on most experiences.

    Greetwell

    Experiences that stay with you long after the trip

    Greetwell curates authentic local experiences and provides personal concierge support in over 500 destinations, helping you explore confidently wherever you go.

    About

    • Our Story
    • For Experience Providers
    • For Hospitality Partners
    • For Developers

    Concierge Support

    • Help Center
    [email protected](650) 414-7338

    Safe & Secure Payments

    © 2026 Greetwell, Inc. All rights reserved.
    Privacy PolicyTerms
    Product image 1
    Product image 2
    Product image 3
    Product image 4
    Product image 5
    Product image 6
    Product image 7
    Gallery image
    Gallery image 1
    Gallery image 2
    Gallery image 3
    Gallery image 5

    10-Mile Upper Jackson River Paddle Trip in Covington

    Paddle 10 miles of class I–II rapids on the upper Jackson River

    4.7 stars• 67 reviews
    From$54/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    4 to 5 hours

    Ideal For

    4 or more people

    Highlights

    Paddle the upper Jackson River in Alleghany County on the longest trip in the lineup. Start at Smith Bridge and take out at Intervale Park after 4 to 5 hours on the water.

    • Enjoy a 10-mile river trip that typically takes 4 to 5 hours
    • Navigate class I & II rapids that are beginner-friendly
    • Launch from the National Forest Smith Bridge river access point
    • Finish at the Intervale Park ramp takeout
    • Join with a group of 4 or more due to shuttle length
    • Choose a start time at 9AM or 1PM daily

    Things to know

    Minimum age is 6 years old, with no exceptions. Small kids must ride in boats with their parents or guardians. Alcohol is prohibited on all trips.

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel at least 3 days in advance for a refund upon request. Full refund if the outfitter cancels the trip due to unsafe river conditions.

    FAQs

    Yes. You paddle a section with class I & II rapids that is described as fun and exciting but easily paddled by beginners.

    The minimum age for any river trip is 6 years old, with no underage exceptions. Small kids must be in boats with their parents or guardians.

    No. Alcohol is prohibited on all trips.

    Meeting details

    National Forest Smith Bridge shore line river access point

    Experience provided by Alleghany Outdoors
    Experience provided by Alleghany Outdoors

    Related locations

    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 #YF8VVS

    Sit-on-Top Single Kayak

    $54.54

    One person per kayak

    0

    Sit Inside Kayak

    $54.54

    One person per kayak

    0

    Customers in a Tandem Kayak

    $48.97

    All prices per person • Up to 2 people per kayak

    0

    Private Boat Shuttle Only

    $31.16

    Shuttle passenger only • Bringing own boat/bike

    0

    Customer in a Canoe

    $48.97

    # People going in a Canoe, priced per person

    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

    4.7
    Excellent
    67 reviews•Google Maps
    54
    11
    1
    0
    1

    Matt runs a really solid operation out here, offering bike rentals, kayaking, and tubing on the James, Jackson, and Cowpasture Rivers. What stands out consistently is his flexibility and local knowledge. When river conditions aren't ideal, he'll suggest alternatives. He provides shuttle service to trailheads and put-in points, and reviewers appreciate how he shares insider tips about the area, from nearby hikes to where to grab good food along the way. The staff keeps things running smoothly with friendly, efficient service. The rail trail biking gets particular praise for its scenic beauty along the river, though a few people mentioned uncomfortable bike seats on certain models. One group kayaking experience noted the guides could have provided more detailed paddling instruction for beginners, which made navigating low water conditions a bit stressful for inexperienced paddlers. That said, the overwhelming majority rave about the gorgeous scenery, quality equipment, and the easygoing vibe. It's a reliable choice for getting out on the water or trail without the hassle of bringing your own gear.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    Tracked a very enjoyable 31.3 mile round trip (out & back) bike ride. The trail is so peaceful. It is very well maintained. The restrooms were very clean. Many scenic areas of the river, mountains, streams, and structures. The trailhead is easy to navigate to and from and has plenty of parking. Rode this trail 5 years ago when the trail ended at the picnic area and tracked 28 miles.

    Photo of Wayne Walk Jr

    Wayne Walk Jr

    May 10, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Tracked a very enjoyable 31.3 mile round trip (out & back) bike ride. The trail is so peaceful. It is very well maintained. The restrooms were very clean. Many scenic areas of the river, mountains, streams, and structures. The trailhead is easy to navigate to and from and has plenty of parking. Rode this trail 5 years ago when the trail ended at the picnic area and tracked 28 miles.

    Photo of Wayne Walk Jr

    Wayne Walk Jr

    May 10, 2026

    Nearby activities

    Thumbnail
    Bike Rentals

    Ride a Bike Rental on the Jackson River Trail

    From$28/ bike
    Thumbnail
    Bike Tours4 person minimu…

    Ride the 16-Mile Cedar Creek Shuttle Bike Route

    From$44/ person
    Thumbnail
    Kayaking Tours

    Paddle the Jackson River in Covington

    From$53/ person
    Thumbnail
    Tubing

    Jackson River Tubing in Covington

    $24.49/ person
    Thumbnail
    Rafting

    Upper Jackson River Paddle Trip: Indian Draft To Intervale

    From$53/ person
    Thumbnail
    Bike Rentals

    Jackson River Scenic Trail E-Bike Rental

    From$66/ bike