Adventure awaits at Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, where thrilling outdoor activities offer excitement for everyone. To fully enjoy your experience and stay comfortable, it’s essential to dress appropriately for each activity. Whether you’re navigating wild rapids, gliding through the treetops, or paddling serene waters, here’s a guide to help you choose the best attire for white water rafting, kayaking, and ziplining.

What to Wear

White Water Rafting

Must-haves

1. Quick-Dry Clothing

Rafting can get splashy, so opt for quick-dry clothes to stay comfortable. A moisture-wicking base layer like a synthetic shirt can keep you warm and dry.

2. Water Shoes

Sturdy water shoes or sandals with a secure fit are essential. They protect your feet from sharp rocks and provide good grip on wet surfaces.

3. Life Jacket

We will provide a well-fitted life jacket. Ensure it’s snug but comfortable.

Optional

1. Sun Protection

A hat with a brim and sunglasses with a strap can shield you from the sun. Don’t forget sunscreen!

2. Socks and Gloves

In the spring and fall we recommend neoprene socks or booties. The next best thing is wearing wool or fleece socks with your sneakers.

3. Waterproof Bag

To keep your belongings dry, use a waterproof bag or dry pouch.

4. Wetsuit or Splash Tops

Depending on the season, a wetsuit or splash top may be necessary to keep you warm and dry. We offer sleeveless wetsuits and splash tops free of charge in the spring and fall.

Kayaking

Must-haves

1. Quick-Dry Clothing

Similar to rafting, wear quick-dry clothes that can handle getting wet. Lightweight, breathable layers are ideal.

2. Water Shoes

Kayaking often involves stepping in and out of the water, so water shoes with good grip are a must.

3. Life Jacket

We will provide a well-fitted life jacket. Ensure it’s adjusted properly for comfort and security.

Optional

1. Sun Protection

Sunglasses with a strap and a wide-brimmed hat can offer extra protection from UV rays.

2. Dry Bag

For storing personal items like snacks or extra layers, a dry bag is handy.

3. Waterproof Phone Case

If you plan to take photos or need your phone handy, a waterproof case will keep it safe.

Ziplining

Must-haves

1. Comfortable Clothing

Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Avoid loose or baggy clothing that could get caught.

2. Closed-Toe Shoes

Secure, closed-toe shoes with a good grip are essential. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.

3. Harness

We provide the harness and safety gear, so you only need to focus on wearing the right clothing.

Optional

1. Gloves

While not necessary, gloves can provide additional grip and comfort during your ziplining adventure.

2. Sun Protection

Sunglasses and sunscreen will help protect you from the sun while you’re soaring through the trees.

Outdoor Adventures in West Virginia

Harpers Ferry Adventure Center is your gateway to exhilarating outdoor adventures in the stunning landscape of West Virginia. From the rush of white water rafting and the tranquility of kayaking to the thrill of ziplining, preparing with the right gear ensures that your adventure is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Embrace the adventure with confidence, knowing you’re equipped for an experience of a lifetime. Ready to dive into your next outdoor thrill? Book your next adventure at Harpers Ferry Adventure Center!

Don’t Just Take Our Word for It…

Dave Palanzi
11:36 15 Jul 25
Our group was warmly welcomed by the friendly staff. Scott was great as he oriented us for our white water tubing adventure, he used humor to ensure we knew the rules. Amanda greeted us with a smile at the take out point and was very helpful as we exited the river.
Tobias Shaw
16:39 14 Jul 25
Had a lovely day tubing with a crew of 12, I would definitely return again. Taking a few stars off as there was a semi-hiden $7 per person equipment fee not disclosed on the website which I find annoying (just disclose it up front!). Also I paid for 13 guests but only 12 showed up. I asked the employee if we could swap the 13th spot for a cooler tube, but when we got off the bus it wasn't included. Had a lovely time but improvements could be made.
Dorothy
01:45 13 Jul 25
Reddy Reddy
16:50 07 Jul 25
gabriel deleon
03:50 07 Jul 25
Did tubing today…twice.
Got on the last shuttle around 4pm. Asked the driver: “ can i have a blue tube please?” she went. “ no! I am not digging through all these tubes to get a blue one! “ . there was clearly a blue tube within easy reach. We didn’t want to argue and just took whatever she gave us. Very rude.
The porta potties were a nightmare at the site. Changing cabins were not the cleanest.. and have no hooks to hang your clothes. So u put your clothes on the floor?
Not coming back.
Richie
17:54 06 Jul 25
we went river rafting, and seth was our boat guide. he was great! very friendly and helpful, and it wasnt too difficult because of how much effort he put in for us.
Michelle Lazzaro
13:53 06 Jul 25
We booked the flat water tubing with Adventure Center for a day of fun in Harper's Ferry. An absolute blast! I would highly recommend and we will definitely be coming back. Adventure Center was well organized, had a friendly staff and plenty of on-site parking. What stood out about this place over others in the area, like River Riders, was that they post on their website real-time updates on river conditions and any age restrictions. We felt well-informed prior to showing up and could book what made sense for our family. Again, hands down a really fun time and we can't wait to come back!
Brandon Bowers
15:46 05 Jul 25
Jeremy was an excellent rafting guide! He was super helpful and knowledgeable about the river. 11/10 would raft again.
Carlo de Vera
02:31 05 Jul 25
We were first-timers and your team didn’t disappoint, particularly Logan, Carson, & Bryce on the Zipline and Logan on the Rope Course. Thank you.
Gourav R
22:46 03 Jul 25
Martin White
01:37 29 Jun 25
Our boat guide Dimitri was awesome, we had a great day white water rafting.
Cassey Riner
17:31 26 Jun 25
My family and I recently tried white water rafting at HFAC for the first time. We had the best experience! Our guide was very knowledgeable. Alyson explained safety instructions to us in detail and also shared HF history with us! We will definitely be back! We highly recommend river guide Alyson! Thanks again for the fantastic time! Memories were made.
Oliver Lim
01:40 24 Jun 25
I visited today to celebrate my birthday and had a truly memorable experience. I want to especially recognize Jeremy, he was an exceptional guide and made the entire visit enjoyable. My friends and I had an absolute blast. Thank you for such a wonderful experience; I look forward to visiting again!
Shannon Detling
21:52 19 Jun 25
Whitewater rafting with Jeremy was awesome! He was the best guide! We did the best rapids while other boats watched us having fun.
hamza Elkholy
03:51 13 Jun 25
Jack and Caden took us through an exhilarating day with and enthusiasm few can contend with!!!
Hilary Buxton
15:57 09 Jun 25
The staff are friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. We did flatwater tubing and it was a good route; you can do multiple runs--we did two. We stayed overnight in one of the camping cabins so that we could enjoy the brewery on the property without having to worry about driving and had and had a great time--good beer, live music, pizza, amazing views. There was an issue with our cabin at first and Scott, the property manager, took good care of us and rectified the issue quickly. I've tubed with them twice so far and will definitely be back.
Todd Peterson
02:29 04 Jun 25
We went on a rafting trip this past Sunday. Wow, what a great time! Our raft guide was Hannah. She did such an amazing job. Her knowledge about the river and how to navigate the raft down the rapids can't be beat. It was a thrill I won't forget!! Hannah also had us stop at unique places like streams and falls that I have never seen before. She was also a lot of fun to talk to and kept us laughing with her jokes. Thanks Hannah for a wonderful adventure I will never forget.
Brett Peterson
23:34 01 Jun 25
We had an amazing time visiting the Harper Ferry adventure center. Hannah was an amazing guide to go rafting down the river with. Her jokes, personality, and in depth knowledge of the river made it a truly memorable experience. A nice plus is also the brewery right on sight, serving well over 50 beers on tap. Will be back!!
GAIA LEAH ROTEM
19:48 26 May 25
Me and my family had such an amazing experience at the rope course. Our instructor Logan was very kind, and attentive, he provided very clear and helpful instructions while keeping it professional and fun. Thanks to his advice I was able to do the most difficult part of it successfully, thank you.