Hudson River · Adirondacks, New York

Hudson River Gorge Day Trip

Seventeen miles from the Indian River into the Hudson Gorge. Big waves, wilderness scenery and a freshly prepared riverside lunch.

Trips run rain or shine. Full refund for cancellation 14+ days ahead; no refund within 13 days, for late arrival or no-show. Read the full policy .

North Creek guides and guests paddle a red raft through Hudson River whitewater
Distance
17 miles
Whitewater
Class III–IV
Duration
About 6 hours
Season
April–October
Meeting base
North Creek, NY

What to expect

The Hudson River Gorge Day Trip is a guided 17-mile whitewater rafting trip in New York’s Adirondacks. We start with three miles of Class III rapids on the Indian River, reach the Hudson and paddle into the Gorge. Over the next stretch, Class III–IV rapids follow one another as the river drops 650 feet through the Gorge.

We stop at a riverside campsite for a half-hour lunch. Our lunches are prepared fresh each morning. After the Gorge, Class II whitewater leads toward the take-out in North River. The trip’s pace and character change with seasonal water levels.

Meet the Hudson Gorge rapids

Book this river trip

$120 per person — you may share a raft with other groups.

$840 for a private raft — 4–8 people.

Rates shown are the operator’s published rates. Confirm current pricing and any checkout fees when you reserve.

Choose a date & reserve

Trips run rain or shine. Full refund for cancellation 14+ days ahead; no refund within 13 days, for late arrival or no-show. Read the full policy .

What’s included

  • New York State licensed river guides
  • PFD, helmet and paddle
  • Wetsuit and jacket; splash jacket as needed
  • Freshly prepared lunch on the river
  • Equipment included in the published trip rate

Your day on the river

  1. 9:00 a.m. Check in at the North Creek rafting base.
  2. 9:45 a.m. Bus departs the base for the put-in.
  3. 10:30 a.m. On the river: Indian River whitewater, then the Hudson Gorge.
  4. 12:30 p.m. Fresh lunch and a half-hour break on shore.
  5. 2:30 p.m. Off the river at the take-out.
  6. 3:00 p.m. Return to the rafting base.

These are the published approximate times, not a guarantee. Follow your booking confirmation. The source schedule lists dam-release days on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday; check the booking calendar for current departures.

Is this trip right for your crew?

  • Age 6+ in summer with an adult; call for conditions
  • Hudson rafting experience is generally not required except in extremely high water; discuss your abilities and health considerations before booking.
  • All guests must follow the guide’s instructions and wear the supplied required safety equipment.
  • A Release of Liability Form is required before participating.
Read safety & participation guidance

What to bring

  • Spring and cool fall days: synthetic or wool top and bottom layers, wool or fleece socks, and a warm hat. No cotton in cold conditions.
  • Warm weather: swimsuit, shorts and a T-shirt that can get wet. Synthetic fabrics dry faster than cotton.
  • Secure water shoes or sandals. No flip-flops, Crocs or bare feet.

Meeting point & before you reserve

Our rafting base is 9 Ordway Lane, North Creek, NY 12853 . Confirm your trip’s meeting time, parking and transport arrangements in your reservation instructions. Overnight put-ins and take-outs vary by route.

  • Tell us about dietary needs, children, swimming concerns or mobility needs before reserving.
  • Trips run rain or shine; river conditions can affect the route and guest suitability.
  • Review the cancellation policy: 14+ days for a full refund; 13 days or less is not refundable; reservations are transferable.
Get directions to the base · Download the liability release (PDF)

Questions before your trip

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.

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.

A note from a returning family

“Our family had a wonderful time. It was our second trip. We’ll be back! Frank is an outstanding guide!”

Rich K. and Jennifer B. · Woodstock, VT · Guest letter
Read guest letters & press

Stay nearby

Plan a night before or after the river. Browse our published North Creek lodging , Lake George visitor information , Saratoga Springs guide and Lake Placid trip-planning notes . Contact accommodation providers directly for current details.

The river’s waiting.

Find the trip that fits your crew and get out on the water.

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$120 per person Check dates