These outfitters also rent rubber rafts, kayaks and tubes, the local's craft of choice for a lazy afternoon of drifting with the current. Other outfitters are near the James River, the longest and largest river in Virginia. Only Lexington's James River Basin Canoe Livery leads canoe trips down both the Maury and the James rivers. Farther southwest, in Giles County, the New River Canoe Livery in Pembroke runs trips down the magnificent New River, reputed to be second only to the Nile as the oldest river on Earth. Generally speaking, a single fee includes the canoe rental, paddles, life jackets, maps, shuttle service and an orientation.
Tubing costs much less.
Here are some good places to rent boats and equipment in the Blue Ridge region, from north to south. Front Royal Canoe Co. U.S. Hwy. Trips range from leisurely fishing to mild whitewater adventures. Multiple-day excursions also can be arranged. Reservations are recommended but not required.