With a scorching summer ahead, everyone in Northern Virginia is looking for a way to stay cool. On sweltering days when public pools or the sprinkler just won’t cut it, tubing can be the perfect antidote to the heat.
Everyone’s experience in inner tubing and river rafting may be different, but one thing is for sure: The logistics of your trip can make or break your experience. Before setting off for a relaxing day, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind.
First, always book your experience in advance — time slots can book up fast in the summer. Always pack sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and a cover shirt. You may also want to invest in a sturdy pair of water shoes before you go, as some companies require them. Leave the flip-flops at home, and don’t forget plastic bags for any valuables you’d rather stay dry.
If you get in a pinch, duct tape may come in handy. And being in the sun dehydrates, so bring lots of water — a picnic lunch for your group won’t hurt either. And though it seems like a no-brainer, always pack a beach towel and a change of clothes.
After everything is in order, it’s time to hit the road before floating the day away.
Shenandoah River Outfitters
Twist and turn down the scenic South Fork of the Shenandoah River. While the entire fork runs for 19 miles, tubing routes are generally 3 miles long and will take three to five hours to complete, depending on river conditions. All tubers must wear a life vest and watch a safety video before setting off for the day. Routes are chosen by the day, and shuttle service is included to and from the push-off and pickup points. The first shuttle departs at 9:30 a.m., and the final shuttle of the day leaves at noon sharp. Take note that you’ll need to finish your float before 5 p.m. to make it for the last shuttle of the day. Riders must be 5 or older to participate, and pets cannot accompany tubers. 6502 S. Page Valley Rd., Luray, $28, $6 for cooler tube
Front Royal Outdoors
Kick back on this lazy 3-mile float from Karo Landing to Front Royal Outdoors on the Shenandoah. Choose a standard tube or a deluxe option with a mesh bottom and backrest. The entire float lasts around three to four hours, and final shuttles for push-off leave at noon on weekdays and 1 p.m. on weekends. Shuttle service back to your car isn’t required, as the route concludes in front of the office where you began the day. Riders have to wear shoes or sandals with a heel strap and must be 6 or older. Front Royal Outdoors also offers a dog-friendly tube reinforced with nylon so that even pets can join. 8567 Stonewall Jackson Hwy., Front Royal, $27–$35
Downriver Canoe Company
Downriver Canoe Company offers two different tubing runs, depending on the day of your visit. On weekends, tubers can float for 3.5 miles along Shenandoah River State Park, which lasts about three hours. On weekdays, tubers typically take the Hazard Mill route along Massanutten Mountain, which lasts approximately three hours. Riders must be 5 or older to participate. 884 Indian Hollow Rd., Bentonville, $35, $10 for cooler tube
River Riders Family Adventure Resort
River Riders offers three different routes for tubers who like options. For a calm float, the flat water tubing route on the Shenandoah lasts about two-and-a-half hours. River Riders also offers white-water tubing on the Potomac River for a more fast-paced experience. The route traverses Class I to III rapids and lasts about 2 hours. Riders must be at least 5 feet tall and 10 years old to go white-water tubing. Lastly, tubers can take the long way home with a full-day tubing route that lasts between five and seven hours. Cooler tubes are available to rent or purchase, and shuttles are included. 408 Alstadts Hill Rd., Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, starts at $33 for flat water tubing and white-water tubing, starting at $52 for full-day tubing, $19–$24 for cooler
Watermelon Park
This mellow float down the Shenandoah will take approximately three hours. Kids are welcome on this leisurely trip, but no pets are allowed. A shuttle will take you to and from the push-off site. While shuttles are included, the website recommends a tip for the drivers. Can’t get enough? If you choose to go again at the end of your float, the second trip will be half the price. 3322 Lockes Mill Rd., Berryville, $25, $15 for cooler tube
River & Trail Outfitters
River & Trail Outfitters operates three float routes along the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. For a laid-back ride, take the one-to-two-hour route down the Shenandoah. You can also go white-water tubing on the Potomac River through Class II and III rapids (riders mist be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 90 pounds) Additionally, River & Trail offers a peaceful route along the Potomac that pushes off near Brunswick, Maryland. The ride will take approximately three hours, including a shuttle to and from the push-off. 99 Cary Lu Cir., Ste. 108, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, $30–$53
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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