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If you are looking for something adventurous and unique to do this spring, why not consider water rafting on Pine Creek?

Pine Creek Outfitters’ rafting season is from March to May. Rafting the creek is best in the spring months due to a larger water flow because of the run off (melted snow.) According to Jonathan Dillon, owner of Pine Creek Outfitters, it is especially important to raft only during the spring season, due to this area receiving less rainfall than most places in Pennsylvania.

Pine Creek Outfitters offers two different rafting trips. There is an option to float the canyon, which is a 17 mile trip and lasts about five to six hours. Or you could raft the Upper Pine, which is a shorter trip (five to 10 miles, or about two to four hours.)

Pine Creek rapids are considered Class I which is easy, and Class II which is moderate for most of the float season. Pine Creek Outfitters recommend ages seven and up for rafting Pine Creek. The Upper Pine is calmer and more suitable for smaller children.

“It is generally a calm trip with some small sections of rapids.  At higher water levels the river is much faster and the rapids are more challenging,” Dillon said.

Most people choose from these two trips, but it is possible to raft other sections. “We rent boats and offer shuttle services for all sections of Pine Creek.  You could potentially paddle about 68 miles (four to five days) from Galeton to Jersey Shore,” Dillon said.

Pine Creek takes care of all the finer details of your rafting trip. The guided raft trips include buffet lunch, wetsuit rentals, and return shuttle transportation.

“Our guides will safely get you through the rapids, entertain you with stories, and show you eagle nests and hidden waterfalls,” Dillon said.” The scenery is incredible. Pine Creek is also one of the last places on the east coast with a true wilderness setting (no roads or cell phone reception).” 

The best way to prepare for a rafting trip is to dress appropriately for the weather: wear non-cotton clothing, a windbreaker/waterproof jacket and a hat.

You will be in good hands with Pine Creek Outfitters; they have been offering rafting trips since 1984. Aside from rafting, they also offer canoe, kayak and tube rentals, guiding kayaking, guided mountain biking, guided rock climbing and bicycle rentals for riding the Pine Creek Rail Trail.

“Many people utilize our shuttle services throughout the year for bicycling, boating, and backpacking,” Dillon said.

For prices and more information about rafting trips, check out www.pinecrk.com, call (570) 724-3003 or visit at 5142 Route 6, Wellsboro. Pine Creek Outfitters is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.