The Black River     

Black River "Big Water" Spring Season

Late spring in Northern New York is the time for "Big Water" on the Black River! A.R.O. pioneered the Black and has shared the challenge with adventure minded people for over thirty years.  While the spring run off that fuels other New York adventure class rivers is winding down, the Black River is just getting cranked up.

The Black River Gorge is the last section of a 189 mile journey from it's headwaters in the Adirondacks to Lake Ontario.  This gives New York's second longest river a drainage area of almost 2000 sq. miles, so when it rains- it ROARS.

Big water is not for everyone, but if you crave excitement in the form of whitewater then here it is.  The Black River frothed into a whitewater adventure of waves, drops and adrenalin.  This 3-4 hour trip provides you with 8 miles of class III- IV ledge drops and standing waves.  There is very little flat water in the first half of the trip, and virtually none in The Gorge.

Adventure Class Whitewater; All Summer Long!

Summer sunshine, warm water, and exciting Class IV rapids; the combination was unknown in New York State until A.R.O. pioneered rafting trips in the Black River Gorge.

A reliable flow of water released from dams high in the Adirondack Mountains surges into the Black River Gorge plunging over ledges and boulders. The narrow gorge constricts the water increasing its velocity and thereby magnifying the excitement!

The result; the best stretch of summer whitewater in New York. You would have to travel to Maine or West Virginia to find anything comparable.

You will be challenged by 14 major sets of class II-IV rapids including Hole Brothers, Knifes' Edge, Zig- Zag, and of course the Cruncher.

You may choose to jump out of the boat for a more individual experience in the fast moving but safe water of the "swimming rapids."

As you paddle through the beautiful Black River Gorge, waterfalls flow from the cliffs between the clinging trees and hanging vines.  You may think you're in a rain forest or even Jurassic Park (keep your eyes open for fossils they're everywhere).  Is this really Northern New York?  It's so green, it's so wild- it's SO cool!

After the whitewater section the river calms down and the rafts are hooked together and towed by our powerboat. Cold beverages are provided to toast a successful day meeting the Gorge's challenge

 We now can relax and watch the Lower Gorge slip past. But don't get caught napping, you might miss the river stories and jokes that are almost as plentiful as the Great Blue Herons and Ospreys. After a short bus ride back to the outpost, a full homemade Barbecue and photo/ video show awaits you.

New Inflatable Kayak Adventures Starting in July!

Our instructors and guides will help you develop the necessary skills then lead as you paddle your own inflatable whitewater kayak through Class II and II rapids!  While no previous experience is necessary, you must have an adventurous spirit and be willing to take an occasional swim. This is Whitewater up close and personal. 

Trip Leader Reward Program: Organize a group of eight or more and earn a free trip as a reward. Sixteen or more and leader earns two trips.

Schedule and Rates

            May: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 

            June: Friday, Saturday & Sunday

             July:  Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday

             August: Daily except Tuesdays

             September: Friday, Saturday & Sunday

             October: Saturday & Sunday