The Most Thrilling Places To Go Whitewater Rafting

Colorado River, Arizona

The Colorado River offers a wide range of water and is known to be one of the most popular rafting destinations in the world. Why? Because it has more than 1,450 miles in total and cuts through the world famous Grand Canyon. Take a scenic float and view the incredible wildlife or go on a heart pumping ride downstream through massive rapids.

Rogue River, Oregon

Paddle through canyons and rocky waters with the stunning backdrop of mountains on the Rogue River in Oregon. This is one of the most scenic destinations to go whitewater rafting. Along your journey, view beautiful beaches, spectacular waterfalls, and catch a glimpse of wildlife.

Noce River, Italy

The Noce River is located in Val di Sole, it is known to be the leading river in Northern Italy due to its Class III, IV and V rapids. "National Geographic has created a ranking of the top 10 rivers for Whitewater rafting in the world and the Noce River, the only European river in this ranking, has been classified ninth at an international level (Val di Sole)."

Magpie River, Canada

Begin your adventure by flying onto the river via float plane. The Magpie River begins at an elevation of 1,378 ft. and flows through a series of lakes. Experience incredible wildlife, amazing rapids, and — if you're lucky — catch a glimpse of the spectacular aurora borealis.

Nenana River, Alaska

Sitting on the eastern boundary of the Denali National Park is the Nenana River. This river is perfect for individuals of intermediate to advanced skill levels with Class III and IV whitewater.  Enjoy beautiful scenery and experience Alaska's incredible wilderness areas on the river, which is highly regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world.

Futaleufu River, Chile

Futaleufu River is known for its huge rapids and stunning waters. It's famous for its Class IV and V rapids. The water is fed from the glaciers in the Andes, and it's that mountain scenery that makes for an incredible sight. Fun Fact: Futa means Big and Leufu means river.

Salmon River, Idaho

Whether you are looking for easy and scenic or challenging and thrilling, the Salmon River has it all. The "Middle Fork" is said to be the best river trip in the world due to its Class III and IV whitewater. Take a 6-day river trip to experience Salmon River at its fullest. Bonus: Bring your waterproof camera because the trip ends at the Impassable Canyon.

Franklin River, Australia

The Franklin River runs through the Tasmania wilderness, a World Heritage Area. Its "ecosystem environment is one of the most pristine on earth thanks to hawk-like activism and conservation efforts by Tasmanian Expeditions (outsideonline.com)." If you enjoy rapid, fluctuating waters this is the perfect whitewater rafting destination for you.

Coruh River, Turkey

Coruh River is known to be the last remaining wild river in Turkey and one of the fastest-flowing rivers in the world. Rafters and extreme kayakers from all over the world challenge themselves on these intense rapids. Paddle past ancient castle ruins and through canyons on this thrilling adventure.

White Nile, Uganda

White Nile is an incredible river in Africa and home to some of the world's best grade five whitewater rafting. It consists of approximately 2,300 miles of rivers that drain from Lake Victoria. Here, you will find some of the most sustained rapids on the planet. Get ready to race over waterfalls and slide into huge rocks on the adrenaline rush of a lifetime.

Zambezi River, Zimbabwe/Zambia

The Zambezi River offers one of the most exhilarating rafting adventures in all of Africa. It is considered one of the top-10 Rivers in the world for whitewater rafting.  It starts below the Victoria Falls and flows through the Bakota Gorge. Hop in the boat if you're up for an intense ride, as the Zambezi River encounters huge drops and very difficult rapids.