Hudson River, New York
Whatever excitement exists in New York City, where the Hudson meets the sea, is more than matched by the excitement of the river near its source. You drive to Indian Lake, where a 2.5-mile stretch of the Indian River serves as access to the Hudson River Gorge. From there it's hold on to your britches. Daily releases for two hours each morning from the Abanakee Dam provide the top of the river with its bite, including 3.5 miles of near-continuous Class III whitewater as the Indian flows toward its confluence with the Hudson. Another 13 miles pulls you through the remote Hudson River Gorge, a narrow canyon consisting of some major Class III-IV rapids. The best action on the Hudson occurs in April and May when snowmelt from the Adirondacks and spring rains converge to create some Class IV+ challenges. Fall also provides some choice weekend whitewater (between Labor Day and Columbus Day), as the water gods draw down Indian Lake to make room for winter runoff. An added bonus here? Water temperatures won’t be as frigid later in the season.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
