Where do I check in and at what time?

Please check your itinerary / invoice. For all MIddle Yough trips, please arrive at Wilderness Voyageurs outfitter store at the time quoted on your invoice. Click here for directions to Wilderness Voyageurs in Ohiopyle, PA.

What Facilities are Available?

Bath and change house is located across from the check in location with hot showers. There is a full service Outfitter Store for last minute sun screen, t-shirts and other fun items. Falls City Restaurant, Pub is just down the street & Rapid Java Gourmet Coffee Stand offers organic coffee and espresso drinks, great breakfast, treats & homemade ice-cream.

What should I wear?

The quick answer is quick drying clothes you don't mind getting wet or dirty.

• Water shoes, sandals or old sneakers - you must wear shoes and they need to stay on your feet. Don't bring flip flops unless you have a roll of duck tape as well to strap them on with.
• Do NOT wear any cotton. Cotton will make you cold.
• Early spring the air may be warm, but the water is still very cold. Wear a synthetic underlayer.
• For more details on how to dress appropriately, please click here.
• We have wet suits & paddling jackets to rent for the day.
• Please be sure to check the weather before your day of rafting.

What are the local Accommodations?

Trillium Lodge is located just 4 miles from our base. There are also multiple bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels and campground options in the area.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age for Family Raft trips on the Middle Yough is 5 years old and no experience is necessary. If you are considering a Peddle Paddle, we recommend a minimum age of 8, simply because it is a long day.

What if I can't swim?

Many rafters can't swim. On all trips, Coast Guard-approved life jackets are provided and must be worn. On advanced trips, it is recommended that you have swimming skills.

Can I tube down the Middle Yough?

No. Tubing is not allow in Ohiopyle State Park! The State Park has size requirements on inflatable water crafts!

Where do I check in?

You need to check in at our outfitters store, Wilderness Voyageurs at 103 Garrett St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470.

How do we get to the launch point at the beginning of our trip?

We will transport you to the Middle Yough Launch Area (Ramcat Launch) at the beginning of your trip.

How do we get back to our cars at the end of the trip?

You will take off the river almost directly across the river from our outfitter store. Just walk your helmets, lifejackets, and paddles back across the bridge.

How many miles is the Middle Yough?

You will be on the water for 9 miles which will take approximately 3 – 5 hours to complete depending on what the water levels are, how many times you stop, and how fast you are paddling.

Are we going to get wet?

The Middle Yough is a calm Class I and II section of river, but with any water sport there is a possibility of getting wet.

Do I need to be physically strong?

Participation is required; you must paddle. You don't need to be an athlete, but good physical condition is expected. Life jackets limitations are a maximum girth of 54". If you have medical conditions that strenuous activity may affect, consult your physician.

Do I have to have enough people to fill a raft to make a reservation for the Middle Yough?

No. Whether you come alone or bring 80 of your best friends, rafts for the Middle Yough will be filled with 4 to 6 people.

What if it is raining?

This is a popular question. Trips do go rain or shine. You're going to get wet anyway, so come along and make like a duck. Afternoon showers are a regular occurrence in the summer.

What is the water level?

The Middle Yough is a dam controlled river and has great water level all year. The spring can bring higher levels due to rain.

What if the water is really high?

If the water rises above a certain level, the trip format will change. Larger boats will be used with a guide in every raft. Wilderness Voyageurs reserves the right to change the section of river. Our goal is to provide you with a raft trip of similar experience! There are many options in the area.

Is rafting really safe?

Wilderness Voyageurs has maintained an excellent safety record for over 40 years. We take a great deal of pride in providing our guests with a trip that is safe and enjoyable. Every guide is trained in First Aid and CPR. Our river staff maintain certifications and training that is twice the state minimum. Every guide undergoes an intensive 3 month training course and then must complete 20 trips before being allowed to guide. However, due to the nature of the activity, Wilderness Voyageurs Inc. assumes no responsibility for personal safety or loss of personal property.

What does class I-II mean?

Class I: Easy. Fast moving water with riffles and small waves.
Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers.
Class III: Intermediate. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated "Class III-" or "Class III+" respectively.
Class IV-VIAdvanced to Extreme.

Is a raft our only boat option?

No. You can upgrade to a Shredder or a Duckie. On the Middle Yough, Canoes are also available (we do recommend previous experience for Duckies and canoes).

Will I have other people in my rafts?

Possibly. We'll do our best to keep groups together.

Do I have to wear a helmet?

Helmets are not required for Middle Yough rafters. They are provided for Canoe & Duckies.

Can I wear my own life jacket?

No

Can I wear my own wet suit?

Yes

How long does the trip last?

3-6 hours depending on river levels

When will we stop for lunch on the Guided Trip?

Approximately half way through your trip

What will we have for lunch?

Deli style sandwiches, fruit, drinks, and cookies

Are there vegetarian/vegan options for lunch?

Yes

Can I bring animals?

Only dogs on Middle Yough Rentals. They must be well behaved, travel well, ok with transportation, good with other people, kids & other animals. If they puncture the raft, you are responsible for damages. 

Will there be time for hiking or nature walks?

No but there may be time for swimming.

What is the maximum physical size you can accommodate on your trips?

54” girth

Will I have to paddle?

Yes

Do I have to wear shoes?

 Yes you have to wear shoes. Going barefoot can be dangerous and uncomfortable.

Can we drink alcohol on the trips?

No

Can we smoke on the trips?

No

Are there lockers where I can keep my things?

No you should secure you belongings in your locked vehicle. We will secure your keys for you while you are on the trip.

Will my family be able to watch me raft?

Yes, the Great Allegheny Passage follows the Middle Yough to Confluence. Your family could ride the trail to watch you float.

Do I have to carry my raft?

At the beginning and end of the trip all participants will help load and unload rafts from the river.

What if I get too scared, can I leave the trip?

Leaving the trip while in progress is only allowed in emergency situations. If you leave your watercraft and walk back to Ohiopyle, you will be responsible for a $50 recovery fee.