Rafting Adventures Dam Release Whitewater

Dam Release Whitewater Rafting in the Lehigh Gorge State Park

You’ll be surrounded by state park protected mountains while enjoying 12 miles and 4-5 hours of Class II, III whitewater rafting and breathtaking scenery. Whitewater adventures with us are fun, thrilling, and memorable. In fact, it’s an adventure that everyone from ages 8 and up can enjoy. Not only will you paddle through 17 sets of rapids, but you’ll also laugh, get wet and have an amazing day outdoors. There is nothing like a whitewater dam release rafting trip on the Lehigh River in Jim Thorpe, PA!

Need lunch?

Lunch is not provided on our dam release whitewater trips. Sub lunches can be pre purchased from us or you can bring your own! Click here for details.

Have children that don’t meet the age criteria?

You could also check out our Family Style Whitewater. Great for families with young children ages 4 and up.

Don’t forget, in addition to rafting, you can also go Rail Trail Biking or play Skirmish Paintball! Call 570-325-8430 or click for more information on biking and paintball in the Poconos.

2025 Whitewater Dam Release Dates

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If these dates do not fit your schedule or you are looking for something a little less adventurous, our Family Style Whitewater Rafting Trip is an alternate option.

2025 Whitewater Dam Release Rates

Individual – $79.99 (ages 8 & up)
One person will raft for FREE when you bring a group of 10+ rafters. For details, check out all of our FREE Whitewater Rafting Group Leader Benefits!

Whitewater Rafting Rates Include

All necessary whitewater rafting equipment
Life jacket
5 gallon bucket with lid to store your lunch
Free parking
Post-trip bonfire
Change rooms
Shuttle service to/from the river
Professional river guides

Rafting Trip FAQ

How many people fit in each raft?

Most of our rafts accommodate 4 to 7 people.

What if my group has fewer than four people?

If you have fewer than four, you may be teamed up with other rafting guests to fill out the raft.

Is lunch provided during the trip?

Lunch is not provided, but you can purchase sub lunches from our Broken Paddle Bar & Grill when you arrive.

What if I forget something I need for the trip?

No problem—our whitewater rafting retail shop carries all the essentials you might have left behind.

Will photos be available from my rafting adventure?

Yes. We take photos on the river and you can purchase them in our store at the end of the day or online at PoconoWhitewaterPhotos.com.

Are water guns allowed on the Dam Release section?

No—water guns are not permitted on Dam Release Whitewater. If you’d like swimming, splashing, and water-gun battles, try our Family Style Whitewater or Pocono Pirate Rafting trips instead.

What kind of footwear do I need?

Wear shoes that will not fall off (e.g., old sneakers or water shoes). Bare feet, flip-flops, slides, and slippers are not permitted.

Are there any physical or language requirements?

Physical: You should be healthy, capable of re-entering the raft if you fall out, and comfortable walking for 20 minutes.

Language: On dam release trips, each raft must have at least one English-speaking adult who can translate safety briefings and directions.

Is this trip suitable if I have mobility limitations or extra weight?

Because the Lehigh River is a free-flowing wild river, if you have a disability or excessive weight that could prevent you from getting back into the raft, we do not recommend this trip for you.

If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out before your adventure!

There’s something for everyone at Pocono Whitewater: rafting for every level of adventure! Choose your own pace with mild to wild dam release whitewater and family-style whitewater rafting trips. Explore over 138 miles of scenic, easy downhill Rail Trail Biking excursions and battle it out over 750 acres of world-class paintball at Skirmish. Grab your friends and come for a half day, full day, or mini vacation. Pocono Whitewater offers exclusive trips, too. Get attacked by pirates or come for a multiport adventure on our Big Day Out.

Plus so much more! Call us at 1-800-WHITEWATER (1-800-944-8392).