How Much Does Whitewater Rafting Cost?
Whitewater rafting trips in the US range from $20 for a half-day trip to $9395+ for multi-day wilderness expeditions, based on data from 179 outfitters on Whitewatr. A typical half-day trip costs $40-$120 per person, while full-day trips run $75-$250. Multi-day expeditions (like the Grand Canyon or Middle Fork Salmon) range from $400 to $7,000+. Prices shown are representative ranges — always confirm current pricing directly with the outfitter.
Average Cost by State
Prices vary significantly by state. States with multi-day wilderness trips (AZ, UT, AK, ID) show higher averages due to expedition pricing. States known for day trips (TN, PA, NY) are the most affordable.
| State | Avg. Starting Price | Range | Outfitters w/ Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $22 | $22 - $32 | 1 |
| Pennsylvania | $23 | $20 - $187 | 2 |
| New York | $25 | $25 - $79 | 2 |
| Virginia | $32 | $32 - $41 | 1 |
| Tennessee | $44 | $30 - $2995 | 7 |
| New Mexico | $57 | $20 - $1199 | 4 |
| North Carolina | $65 | $30 - $2995 | 8 |
| Georgia | $79 | $49 - $425 | 2 |
| South Carolina | $81 | $49 - $650 | 3 |
| Maine | $86 | $86 - $228 | 1 |
| Wyoming | $91 | $52 - $495 | 6 |
| Washington | $98 | $75 - $2595 | 6 |
| West Virginia | $119 | $119 - $119 | 1 |
| California | $132 | $40 - $4500 | 20 |
| Colorado | $136 | $36 - $7299 | 63 |
| Oregon | $148 | $55 - $4500 | 5 |
| Montana | $156 | $31 - $1500 | 8 |
| Wisconsin | $178 | $178 - $401 | 1 |
| Utah | $370 | $30 - $7299 | 6 |
| Alaska | $588 | $65 - $9395 | 8 |
| Arizona | $933 | $165 - $4500 | 2 |
| Idaho | $1134 | $47 - $8500 | 21 |
| New Hampshire | $1450 | $1450 - $2590 | 1 |
Cost by Trip Type
The biggest factor in cost is trip length. Here's what to expect:
Half-Day Trip (2-4 hours)
$40-$120The most popular option. You'll hit the highlights of a river section in one morning or afternoon. Perfect for first-timers and families.
Full-Day Trip (5-8 hours)
$75-$250Covers more river with a lunch break on the bank. More rapids, more scenery, more time on the water. Premium rivers like the Gauley can exceed $200.
Overnight Trip (1-2 nights)
$200-$700One or two nights on the river with camping. A taste of the multi-day experience without the full commitment.
Multi-Day Expedition (3-18 days)
$400-$7,000+Wilderness camping along the river. All meals, gear, and guides included. Grand Canyon oar trips run $4,000-$7,000. Middle Fork Salmon averages $3,000-$4,000.
What Affects the Price?
Rapid class: Higher-class rapids (IV-V) generally cost more due to specialized equipment, more experienced guides, and smaller group sizes.
Trip length: The single biggest factor. Half-day trips are roughly half the cost of full-day trips.
Location: Remote wilderness rivers (Idaho, Alaska) cost more than roadside runs (Clear Creek CO, Ocoee TN) because of logistics.
Season: Peak season (June-July) commands the highest prices. Shoulder season (May, August-September) often has discounts of 10-20%.
Group size: Many outfitters offer group discounts for 8+ or 12+ people. Ask when booking.
What's included: Some trips include wetsuits, photos, lunch, or transportation. Compare what's in the price, not just the price.
Water levels and dam releases: Rivers with scheduled dam releases (like the Gauley or Ocoee) may charge premium rates during release dates. High-water spring runs can also command higher prices.
Permits and fees: Some rivers have per-person access or recreation fees ($2-$10) that may not be included in the quoted price. Ask before booking.
Guide tips: Tipping your guide 10-20% is customary and not included in the quoted price. Budget an extra $10-$40+ per person depending on the trip.
How to Save Money
Book on weekdays — many outfitters offer lower rates Monday through Friday, sometimes 10-20% or more off weekend prices.
Go in shoulder season (May or late August) when prices can drop 10-20% and crowds thin out.
Ask about group rates — most outfitters discount groups of 8 or more.
Look for package deals that bundle rafting with other activities (zipline, lodging, meals).
Book early for multi-day trips — popular rivers like the Grand Canyon and Middle Fork Salmon sell out months in advance, and early booking can lock in pre-increase pricing.
Find Trips in Your Budget
Browse 576 rafting companies and filter by price range.
Browse Rafting TripsData based on 576 verified outfitters on Whitewatr. Last updated April 2026.