Frequently Asked Questions:
How is the water level?
The Juniata River is fortunate to have relatively stable levels of water regardless of drought conditions. Levels of water on the Juniata River are regulated more by Raystown Dam than the weather. Water releases from Raystown Dam make weekend usually raise the water level for adequately paddling on most of the river serviced by Juniata River Adventures, Inc. Your outfitters can recommend a trip that will minimize the effects of low water on the enjoyment of your trip.
Of course, there are always rocks in the river that a canoe can get stuck on regardless of how deep the water is. Good paddling skills and recognizing signs of channels and deeper water can minimize collisions with obstacles in the river.
No where in the river will it be necessary to portage. In the driest of conditions with the lowest of water levels, getting out of the canoe and walking or dragging the canoe over the shallow water for short distances can be necessary. Be sure to wear shoes and pants that can get wet if walking becomes necessary.
You can check the river levels yourself by logging on to the National Weather Service in State College. Generally water levels of 2.8 ft at Lewistown indicate adequate water levels to paddle most of the river without the need to walk the canoes through very shallow water.
Feel free to contact Juniata River Adventures, Inc. for recommendations on water levels. We want your trip to be easy and enjoyable. If you do not have an enjoyable trip, we can’t expect to see you again on the Juniata River.
Water Levels: (as provided by the National Weather Service)
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What about the weather?
Unfortunately we cannot control the weather. Typically our summer thunderstorms come late in the afternoon. To avoid the chance of storms, we recommend beginning your trip in a time frame that will end your trip before late afternoon. In the event that you are caught in a storm, getting wet on a hot summer day is not the end of the world. However, if lightning threatens then shelter on the shoreline is advisable. If you are lucky and are in the vicinity, you may be able to take cover under one of the bridges, railroad tunnels or local pavilions. Summer thunderstorms are usually short-lived and only add a short delay to your trip.
Cold rainy days are no fun. Juniata River Adventures would prefer that you postpone your trip rather than being miserable in inclement weather. If you do not have an enjoyable trip, we can’t expect to see you again on the Juniata River.
If you plan an early spring or late fall trip, be prepared for cool weather. Wear a jacket or sweatshirt to keep the upper body warm. Shorts and shoes that can get wet remain an essential for managing the canoe in low water or against rocks. Bring a change of clothes with you in the event that you and your canoe capsize. Warm dry clothes at the end of your trip will make your ride home more enjoyable.
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What should I wear?
Plan to get wet. At minimum, you can expect to get wet feet and legs. Low water or rocks may require you to get out of the canoe. Shoes or sandals that can get wet are a necessity to protect your feet should you have to walk in the river. Shorts will keep your legs comfortable. Dress for the day. Early spring and late fall trips may require jackets or sweatshirts. Shorts and T-shirts are appropriate for mid summer trips. A hat is always advisable. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
For tube trips, don’t forget the shoes. Keeping Flip Flops on your feet or in your tubes becomes a hassle. Shorts or bathing suits are appropriate attire; you will be wet, but cool on those hot summer days.
Bring a change of clothes with you in the event that you and your canoe capsize. Warm dry clothes at the end of your trip will make your ride home more enjoyable.
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What can I expect?
At Juniata River Adventures, our business is the river. We do whatever we can to assure that your trip is as enjoyable as is possible. Our equipment may be old, tarnished, well used by our thousands of customers; but it will be clean and ready for you. Every piece of equipment is washed between customers. Your canoe is hand washed and/or power washed with 2500 psi spray. Each personal floatation device is hand washed so you won’t be sharing the last customers sunscreen, refreshments or fishing experience.
Our business is the river. We will do our best to assure that your experience is a pleasant one. We check the water levels hourly and will recommend a section of the river that is suitable for your canoeing skills. We can make suggestions to help you meet your goals for your trip, i.e. the most scenic route, where to camp, the best fishing holes or increase your opportunity to see the bald eagles that frequent the river.
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Do you operate on a schedule?
At Juniata River Adventures, we do our best to meet your needs and schedules. We do not adhere to a strict shuttle schedule. If you are the only trip scheduled for a particular hour, we will get you on your way as close to your arrival time as is possible. We may ask that you wait a short time to accommodate another group.
During a day we have many groups that are on schedules as well. We plan drivers and shuttles to accommodate every group. Unfortunately, if you or the party before you arrives late, that can upset the schedule and delay your trip or the succeeding party’s departure. Late departures do not make for satisfied customers. If our customers are not satisfied, we can’t expect to see them again on the Juniata River. Help us keep all of our customers satisfied by arriving on time.
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Can we change our mind?
At Juniata River Adventures, we do our best to meet your needs and make your trip enjoyable. We will do our best to accommodate any changes you make in your plans such as add a canoe, cancel a canoe, change to a kayak or do a downstream trip instead of an upstream trip. However, be aware that changes can upset schedules, delay departures, delay pick-ups and increase the risk of improper equipment being transported to your destination. Changes in your plans often put an unfair burden on our staff with loading and unloading canoes and gear. We appreciate your consideration for other voyageurs and our staff by finalizing your plans before you arrive at Juniata River Adventures. We will be able to prepare appropriately to make your trip timely and enjoyable.
Sure we will do our best to accommodate changes, but a well planned trip will make everyone’s experience more enjoyable.
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What else does Juniata River Adventures offer?
Our business is the river. However, we do offer primitive camping. Our campsites have picnic tables and fire rings. Potable water is available near the office. Port- a-potties are located at strategic spots at the site. Sorry ladies, no showers (the river makes a great place to bathe in the summer). We have a beautiful beach volley ball court and horseshoe pits to entertain customers before or after their trip or during their camping experience.
We offer soft drinks and bottle water for those hot summer days.
Fishing rods are available for rent. A limited supply of tackle is for sale in the office. Live bait can be available upon request. Fishing licenses are available online with appropriate state identification cards.
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