Rollin' on the River

Want to get wet and wild? Raft through downtown Richmond on the James River's coursing class IV rapids. Or cross the James River on a one-of-a-kind pedestrian bridge to reach Belle Isle - a treasured retreat for kayakers, bikers, hikers, bird-watchers and sun chasers.

Saturday

• Whitewater rafting - Shoot the rapids on a range of rafting tours that go from mild to wild. Allow 4 hours.
• Eagle I Dinner Cruise (call ahead) - Step aboard the Eagle I and cruise down the James River on this majestic 149-passenger vessel. Allow several hours.
• Pony Pasture - Located in Henrico County. Visitors can swim, kayak, relax, and catch some sun along the river.

Sunday

• Belle Isle - Head out to a 54-acre island preserve, featuring walks along the James River falls, Civil War earthworks, an old quarry and ruins of a hydroelectric plant. The views of downtown Richmond and Hollywood Cemetery make it worth the trip. Allow 1.5 hours.
• Canal boat cruise - Join Richmond Canal Cruises for an informative 40-minute, historically narrated tour or private charter of the James River and Kanawha Canal. Allow 1 hour.
• Dutch Gap Conservatory and Henricus Historical Park - Located next to each other in Chesterfield County, both offer great bird-watching and afford excellent views of the James.

See the Richmond Region from an exhilarating perspective. From high-adventure whitewater rafting to relaxing canal cruises, the James River’s rocks, rapids, and forests offer a colorful wilderness playground in the heart of the city. Start planning your trip now!