Brave the Rapids
A Local’s First Whitewater Rafting Adventure in Franklin, NH
Franklin, NH is rapidly becoming more than just a scenic river town—it’s a place where adventure, community, and revitalization come together. On Father’s Day Weekend, I finally did something I’d only watched from the banks before: I went whitewater rafting on the Winnipesaukee River.
I’ve lived within walking distance of the river for a couple years now and often walk down to Trestle View Park to watch kayakers and rafters enjoying the river. Last year I wanted to try it, but I was nervous. This year, I finally went for it—and I’m so glad I did.
A Welcoming First Step
I stopped into Outdoor New England (ONE) to ask if someone like me, without whitewater experience, could do it. Alex at the front desk reassured me: “If you’re physically able to paddle, we’ll take care of the rest.”
That was all I needed to hear.
After check-in, they guide you downstairs to get outfitted with a PFD (personal flotation device), helmet, and optional splash gear.
Pro tip: If you’re going in summer, skip the splash gear—getting soaked is half the fun!
Everyone at ONE, from the guides to the shop staff, was genuinely kind and clearly loved what they were doing.
Meet the crew!
Rafts fit six paddlers and a professional guide (or 2). I was matched with a multi-generational family of five, and after the second run felt like a Rafting team. Our guide, Stu, was upbeat, funny, and highly skilled.
On the bus ride upriver to the launch site, Stu gave us the rundown—how to paddle, what to expect, and threw in some laughs and local trivia. Once on the water, his voice cut through the river’s roar with paddle commands like:
“Left paddle.”
“Right paddle.”
And the most important one: “All Paddle”
That’s your cue to paddle together—everyone at the same time. We followed the rhythm of the two front paddlers (a brother-sister duo in our boat), and it worked beautifully.
Sometimes, our guide used the river’s features to bounce us around corners—on purpose. It was thrilling.
The Ride of a Lifetime
I’ve done canoe camp and paddled the Saco River, but nothing compares to rafting whitewater. The adrenaline, the teamwork, the splash of icy water—it’s all part of the magic.
You’ll see Franklin like you never have before: from beneath the covered bridge, past dramatic rock formations, and through wooded backdrops you don’t notice from town. As a local, it felt like a brand-new view of a place I love.
And you get to go more than once. After our first run, the bus took us back to reset. The second time? Even better. I was more confident, and definitely hooked.
Honestly, if they offered a bulk run discount, I’d be the first in line.
My Tips for You
Pack a snack and cold drink to leave on the bus and enjoy between runs.
Sit on the left side of the boat if you want to be in more photos—that’s the typical camera angle.
Can’t hear your guide? Speak up! Hearing their directions is important. And ask questions before you’re on the river.
Don’t be afraid to go solo. I did, and it was one of the best days I’ve had in Franklin. If you’re nervous, and you want someone to go with you—I’m serious: call me. If I’m free and you’re covering the trip, I’ll go again!
More Than Just Rafting
Outdoor New England has been a key part of Franklin’s revival since it opened in 2015. The shop is packed with river & outdoor gear, cool apparel, socks, memorabilia—and items I didn’t even know existed. The team is knowledgeable and kind.
Props to the owner for building something that brought energy and life back to our downtown.
📸 Photo Credit: Pomeroy Photography & Graphics