Pocono Whitewater was recently named among the best whitewater rafting tours in the nation by USA Today readers.
Provided by Pocono Whitewater
Two businesses in Pennsylvania offer some of the top 10 best whitewater rafting tours in the nation, according to the 2026 USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards.
USA Today’s “Best White Water Rafting Tour (2026)” named Wilderness Voyageurs in Ohiopyle No. 7 and Pocono Whitewater in Jim Thorpe the No. 9 best in the U.S.
“The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike,” USA Today’s report reads. “From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting is a great way to add a dash of adventure to a trip.”
Wilderness Voyageurs offers a variety of whitewater rafting tours, including options ideal for children as young as 5. You can opt for a “guide escorted” excursion or a fully guided tour.
The company’s most popular option is the Lower Yough Rafting tour, which is rated at a “moderate” difficulty level, lasts 3 to 5 hours and is recommended for adults and children age 12 and older.
For a more leisurely float, check out the Middle Yough Family Rafting tour, or enjoy a bike and raft trip with the Middle Yough Pedal and Paddle.
The Centre Daily Times has contacted staff with Wilderness Voyageurs for comment about the USA Today recognition.
Location: 103 Garrett St. in Ohiopyle, Pa.
Exploring Pocono Whitewater
Pocono Whitewater has several whitewater rafting options available, from family focused outings, to moonlight rafting, to pirate-themed excursions, to private rafting trips and even dog-friendly adventures.
A one-hour whitewater rafting trip costs $64.99 per individual age 6 and older, and includes free parking, shuttle service to and from the river, life jacket use and all necessary equipment. Most of the Pocono Whitewater rafts seat four to seven people.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by USA Today 10Best as one of the top whitewater rafting tours in the nation. As a family-owned and operated company for three generations, Pocono Whitewater has been sharing the adventure of the Lehigh River in the Pocono Mountains of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, with families, friends, and visitors for more than 45 years.
“This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our entire team—from our experienced guides to the staff behind the scenes who work every day to create memorable experiences for our guests. Our mission has always been to invite people to get outdoors, reconnect with nature, experience the beauty of the Lehigh River, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
We are incredibly grateful to the thousands of guests who have joined us on the river over the years and trusted our family to be part of their adventures. This recognition would not be possible without their continued support. We have learned that the greatest memories are the ones created together, and our family is honored to welcome yours, year after year,” Nikki Hurley, director of marketing at Pocono Whitewater, told the Centre Daily Times in an emailed statement.
Location: 1519 PA-903 in Jim Thorpe, Pa.
Top 10 best whitewater rafting tours in U.S.
Here’s how the top 10 best whitewater rafting tours in the nation compared, according to USA Today:
- Northwest Rafting Company in Hood River, Ore.
- Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips in Jackson, Wyo.
- Wiley E. Waters Whitewater Rafting in Spokane, Wash.
- Glacier Guides and Montana Raft in West Glacier, Mont.
- Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, N.C.
- Glacier Raft Company in West Glacier, Mont.
- Wilderness Voyageurs in Ohiopyle, Pa.
- Wilderness Aware Rafting in Buena Vista, Colo.
- Pocono Whitewater in Jim Thorpe, Pa.
- Wet Planet Whitewater in White Salmon, Wash.
