Vermont Whitewater Rafting

West River Whitewater Rafting

West River Trip Information

Experience the thrill of the West River on two special weekends each year during scheduled dam releases by the Army Corps of Engineers. This eight-mile journey delivers continuous Class III whitewater with standout rapids like Landslide and the challenging feature rapid, The Dumplings, making it perfect for intermediate rafters seeking excitement.

Trips meet and end at Mount Snow Ski Resort, where a slide show celebrates the day’s events. The journey begins with breathtaking views from atop Ball Mountain Dam, looking down on the first rapid and across the reservoir to Stratton Mountain. After paddling practice, rafters navigate the first half of the river through Jamaica State Park, tackling Landslide and the tight, boulder-strewn S-turn of The Dumplings, where teamwork is essential. Following a riverside snack, the second half continues through Class II–III rapids like Tornado Alley and The Ledges as the river winds back to base.

With its combination of nonstop action and stunning scenery, the West River is a favorite for both veteran and first-time rafters alike. This year, this trip runs May 2–3, June 6–7, and September 19–20.

May and June: Adults, $105 / Children, $90

September: Adults, $115 / Children, $100

Group Rates:

Raft Capacity/Private Rafts:

  • Standard rafts hold 6–7 paddlers (6 is ideal)
  • Some rafts hold 8 paddlers
  • Groups of 6–8 have a private raft
  • Groups with fewer than 6 may be joined with other parties

Trip Includes:

  • Pre-trip safety instruction
  • Professional guide
  • Personal floating devices and helmet
  • Transportation to and from the river
  • Riverside snack
  • Photo presentation of your day

Meeting Time: Trip start times vary. Please check your email confirmation and plan to check in approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled trip time.

  • Life Jacket and Helmet Fitting: All guests must wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and helmet provided by Crab Apple
  • Safety Briefing and Paddling Instruction
  • Transportation: Bus ride to the Ball Mountain Dam put-in

Rafting:

  • 4 miles of Class III whitewater
  • Run The Dumplings rapid (Class IV)
  • Riverside snack break
  • 4 miles of Class II–III whitewater

Return to Mount Snow:

  • Take-Out: Return transporation to Mount Snow
  • Slide Show:View highlights of your rafting trip

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Trip at a Glance

Distance

8 Miles

Minimum Age

11 Years Old

Difficulty

Class II-IV