Adirondack River Outfitters Black River — Attraction in City of Watertown

Went on a Thursday with a group of six inexperienced paddlers. The pre-excursion process was quick, simple, and well organized.

Our guide was Alex. He took us through a quick safety check - one in which he personally inspected each rafters helmet and vest for proper fit. After a brief practice following paddling commands we were off.

The trip was very fun - a mix of calmer water nestled inside beautiful scenery and swift rapids that were exhilarating. Alex kept us informed of what was ahead, how we should approach it, and what to do if we fell out of the boat. In this novices opinion, the rapids were exciting and challenging - and a lot of fun. My group felt very comfortable under the leadership of Alex. During the calmer moments Alex filled us in on local history and geology, which was fascinating.

There were three different spots where paddlers could exit the boat and swim, the second one included a cliff jumping experience of approximately 12 feet in height. It was August, and the water was pleasantly warm.

There was a brief portage, and with six adult paddlers and Alex it was extremely easy. They gave us a snack and water half way through, then the choice of water or beer at the end of the paddle experience as we got towed to the pickup point (approximately 20 minute ride).

This was such a fun experience, and one I wholly intend on doing again.

The company also did an excellent job of following social distancing and mask protocols due to COVID19, which made me very...

We went rafting with ARO twice this week, one day our guide was Larry and we had such an epic time we booked again, the next time our guide was Dylan. We had an amazing time both times!! Both guides provided history of the area and an exciting, fun and safe trip. Larry by far exceeded what we wanted for a guide— always offering very clear instruction for paddling, and what to do if we found ourselves in the water often repeating his instructions so they were not missed. This helped on trip #2 (Dylan was our guide for trip 2) when I found myself out of the boat and tossed underwater I remembered Larry saying “hold your breath. You can hold your breath. Within 15-20 seconds you’ll pop up.” When I was under the water this helped tremendously to remain calm while I waited to surface. I wish I could give 10 stars! This company really is passionate, especially Larry, about the river and rafting. All the guides seem to be outstanding, each with their own personality and absolutely no shortage of humor and jokes along the way. Can’t wait to go rafting again and will undoubtedly choose ARO for any future white water...

I couldn't recommend this experience any more highly. I took a group of 19 co-workers and friends on the Black River expedition, most of whom had never been rafting. None of us would win a fitness competition and the water levels were toward the high end, making many of them very nervous.

Our guide Mary navigated us safely down the river, ordering us through the rapids and entertaining us with stories during slow sections. For most of us (we were mostly late 20s to mid-30s) the high water level offered the perfect amount of excitement, although this wasn't true for everyone. One of the four boats flipped (twice). While they were safe, they were understandably shaken up by the power of the river. One of our party members got off after three rapids (which ARO uses as a test for exactly that reason).

While reservations are helpful, I'd also suggest calling ahead and asking about the water level in order to ensure the trip meets what you're hoping for.

For our group, the cost of $63 plus tip seemed like a bargain when factoring in the expertise, equipment and the complimentary meal. We can't...