Your questions, answered before the river.
What to wear, who can go, where to meet and what happens if plans change. Start here, then call us for your date and crew.
Answers before you book
When is the best time to go rafting?
Spring, especially April and May, brings the Hudson’s highest water and mostly Class IV rapids. Summer is usually warmer and mostly Class III, making it a popular family choice. Fall brings foliage and Class III+ whitewater. Actual conditions vary with river levels.
Do I need rafting experience?
Prior rafting experience is generally not required for the Hudson River, except in extremely high water. Moose River Class V trips require prior experience. Call North Creek Rafting Company to confirm suitability for your date, river and group.
What is the minimum age?
The operator’s summer Hudson guideline is age 6 and older with an adult. Extremely high water and Class V trips normally require guests to be at least 18. There are exceptions, and size, weight and cold conditions can affect eligibility. Call before booking for a child or for high-water trips.
Do I need to know how to swim?
The operator’s FAQ says swimming ability is not required and everyone must wear a provided Coast Guard-approved PFD while on the river. Being in moving water still carries risk. Tell the team about swimming concerns before reserving so they can confirm the right trip and conditions.
How far ahead should I reserve?
Reserve as early as you can for your preferred date. North Creek Rafting Company keeps trips small, and July and August reservations are often made well in advance. The booking calendar shows the dates currently available.
Where do we meet for the Hudson Gorge day trip?
Meet at North Creek Rafting Company, 9 Ordway Lane, North Creek, NY 12853. The published Hudson Gorge schedule begins with 9:00 a.m. check-in. Follow your booking confirmation for the final meeting time and arrival instructions.
What is included in the Hudson Gorge day trip?
The published day-trip rate includes New York State licensed guides, a fresh lunch on the river, a PFD, helmet and paddle, plus a wetsuit and jacket and splash jacket as needed. Confirm fit, dietary requirements and any questions before your trip.
What should I wear?
For spring and cooler fall days, bring synthetic or wool layers, wool or fleece socks and a warm hat to wear with the provided wetsuit. Avoid cotton in cold conditions. In warm weather, wear a swimsuit or clothes that can get wet and secure water shoes or sandals. No flip-flops, Crocs or bare feet.
Can you accommodate dietary needs?
Meals are freshly prepared, and the overnight-trip pages say menus can be adjusted for the group. Contact the team before booking with allergies or dietary requirements so they can discuss what is possible. Do not assume a particular dietary accommodation without confirmation.
Do trips run in the rain?
Trips run rain or shine under the published policy. Water levels and conditions can change a route or suitability. Follow instructions from the team and call with questions about the forecast or your group; no specific operator-cancellation remedy is stated on the source policy page.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 14 or more days before the trip receive a full refund. Refunds must go to the original card or a 10% processing fee applies. Cancellations 13 days or less before the trip, late arrivals and no-shows are not refundable. Reservations are transferable. Read the full cancellation policy before reserving.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. Guests are asked to read and sign the Release of Liability Form before participating. Download the existing form and contact the team if you need help understanding the participation requirements.
Are overnight itineraries fixed?
No. The Hudson overnight route depends on river level and the needs of your group. For route planning, a 4.5-foot river level is listed for starting in Newcomb and 4 feet for continuing past North River. Discuss the options with the guides before booking; those figures are not a real-time river report.
Is there parking or an accessible arrival option?
Contact North Creek Rafting Company for current parking, drop-off and accessibility arrangements at 9 Ordway Lane. Tell the team about any mobility, transfer or equipment needs before booking. Confirm parking, drop-off and river access before arrival.
Cold-water clothing
- Synthetic or wool long underwear: top and bottom
- Wool or fleece socks that fit inside the provided booties
- Wool or fleece hat that fits under the helmet
- No cotton for spring and cool fall trips
Warm-weather clothing
- Swimsuit or shorts and a T-shirt that can get wet
- Secure water shoes or sandals for river-shore footing
- No flip-flops, Crocs or bare feet
Staying overnight?
Your guides supply waterproof bags, a tent and a sleeping pad among the listed gear. You bring your personal camp kit, including a sleeping bag, rain gear, dry clothes, headlamp and medications. Open the complete overnight checklist .
Policies & forms
Read the cancellation policy before reserving. Guests are asked to read and sign the Release of Liability Form (PDF) . For a date-specific answer, call 800-989-RAFT .