Black River
Location: Syracuse, New York
The Black River Gorge offers 7 miles of whitewater rafting. This section of the river begins in Watertown and ends in Brownville. The Black River ends in Lake Ontario in Jefferson County, New York.
Go Rafting with A Commercial Outfitter in New York
Rafting.com is currently seeking qualified outfitters for Featured Listings. If you are a local rafting outfitter in New York and would like to see your company listed here, please contact us for more information.
Level of Difficulty: Class III-V / Beginner – Advanced, depending on the season
The Black River is a versatile whitewater river for New York Rafters of varying abilities. In the spring, Black River rafting offers more adventurous rafters Class IV-V thrilling whitewater. The difficulty level varies in the spring according to the amount of water being squeezed into the Black River Gorge’s narrow and deep walls. The canyon is an impressive 100 feet deep in places, making for unusual scenery and excellent rafting.
In the summer, after the water level drops, the Black River’s rapids become accessible and reliable exciting Class III, making it the perfect outing for families and mixed groups. The slower water also leaves more time for sunbathing, water fights, and relaxation during river trips. Another great feature of the Black River is its outstanding fishing—salmon, pike, and trout.
Season: May – September
Rafting trips on the Black River are offered in the spring and summer with flows and difficulty levels varying greatly depending on the season.
