Whether you are a beginner outdoorsman or seasoned expert, river tubing is an excellent outdoor adventure. The Shenandoah and Potomac rivers converge at Harpers Ferry, WV, making it the ideal spot for tubing. Harpers Ferry tubing features whitewater, mellow water, and an abundance of natural beauty with a rich history.
Tubing in Harpers Ferry is a favorite activity as the temperatures rise and the river calls. Harpers Ferry boasts of beautiful scenery and wildlife, such as bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and blue herons.
Here is all the information you need to plan your ideal tubing trip with River & Trail Outfitters to experience the beauty and history of Harpers Ferry
Shenandoah River Tubing at Harpers Ferry
River & Trail offers mellow water tubing on the Shenandoah River that is relaxing for all ages and abilities, even your 4 year old and your dog can tag along on this trip. As time and availability allow, you can tube for a second time or add on mellow water canoeing or kayaking. The trip lasts anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on water levels and how you float.
White Water Tubing on the Potomac River by Harpers Ferry
The Potomac river features class II waves and ripples and one class III that will add excitement to your adventure. River & Trail offers Harpers Ferry Whitewater Tubing which is a more adventurous and active trip than the mellow Shenandoah tubing, making it perfect for anyone looking for more action. There are also rocks along the way, where you can stop and take breaks or hang out with friends.
The Potomac River offers a spectacular view of Maryland Heights and the Harpers Ferry National Park to spice up your adventure. As time and availability permit, you can go for more than one run for extra fun.
Given the Class I, Class II, and Class III rapids on the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry, consider white water tubing if you are a good swimmer and in good physical condition, as the waves can separate you from your tube during the float.
Potomac River Peaceful Tubing
The Potomac River is also ideal for relaxing tubing further downstream. This three-hour trip downstream from Harpers Ferry is full of scenic nature, and if you are lucky you just might see a bald eagle or a blue heron. The Potomac River tubing trip is safe for kids, and they will enjoy the water turtles, jumping fish, and mallards in their habitat. River temperatures are also comfortable throughout the seasons for relaxing and peaceful tubing.
Essentials for Tubing in Harpers Ferry
River & Trail Outfitters recommends that you focus on these three essentials when preparing for tubing around Harpers Ferry to keep everyone safe.
Proper Attire and Gear
Since you will spend most of the time on the water, consider the following attire and gear:
- Swimwear: Wear a comfortable and fast-drying swimsuit.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy sandals or water shoes to protect your feet from debris and rocks. We do not allow bare feet or flip flops on any of our river trips.
- Sun protection gear: Protect your skin by applying sunscreen and wearing a hat to protect your face and neck. Also, opt for UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and keep them on your head using a strap.
Snacks and Hydration
It is important to stay hydrated while out in the sun, we highly recommend that guests carry bottles of water and easy to eat snacks on or after their tubing trip on the river. Coolers are allowed on our Shenandoah River Trips, and we offer a cooler tube with a strap to connect it to your tube. On the Potomac Peaceful and Whitewater tubing at Harpers Ferry, small, collapsible coolers that tie to your tube are permitted.
River Safety
Our check in staff and bus drivers deliver safety talks before all of our trips. We stress to our guests that it is important to never stand up in rapids, always wear your PFD (personal floatation device), and stay with your group.
Conclusion
River tubing is a fun experience as you float on the water and enjoy the scenery. If you are a beginner, consider the flat water tubing on the Shenandoah or the Potomac peaceful tubing trips. If you are looking for an adventure, we recommend you try our Harpers Ferry white water tubing. Whatever your preference, ensure you have the proper safety gear, attire, snacks, and water. Finally, protect yourself from UV rays by lathering sunscreen and wearing protective sunglasses.
