From Teresa Plowright,
Your Guide to Family Vacations.
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Forget the theme park thrills and head for the natural wild rides of white water: try a river rafting adventure while the season's right.

Rafting is out-of-the-ordinary fun for teens, and if you're on the right Class of river -- all rivers are classified by the same system-- young kids too can enjoy the ride.

check out several Colorado and Utah options, including "Ranch and Raft" combo getaways, and four-day Family Adventure rafting trips.

Idaho is another place for river rafting adventures: such as the Main Salmon river, with a deep canyon and sandy beaches; 5-day trip includes all equipment, gourmet meals, and an activy guide on each trip to help entertain kids. Shorter trips available on other rivers.

Virginia too is a hotspot for river rafting adventures for families: such as those offered by Songer Whitewater, with paddle boat and "duckies" (inflatable kayaks). Driving distance is do-able from many eastern cities.