Self-Guided River Sled Adventure

Jump on a sled and get up close to nature as you take on the river's gentle rapids on this 2 hour self-guided adventure experience.

Location

Yarra River, Warburton

Meeting Point

Warburton Recreation Reserve, 3455-3457 Warburton Highway, Warburton 3799 (near Bramich Bridge)

Duration

2 hours

Difficulty

Cruise

Group Size

Maximum group of 10. Larger groups by enquiry.

Enjoy a leisurely float down the Upper Yarra River on your very own river sled.

This relaxing 2 hour adventure will have you meandering down a stunning 3 km stretch of the river around bends and over gentle rapids, some sections are nice and cruisy and others may get your heart pumping (just a little). Your adventure will begin with a briefing and demonstration followed by a shuttle upstream, leaving you with 1 1/2 hours to enjoy the river at your own pace. If you like a particular rapid you can hop out and walk back upstream along the walking track (it runs parallel to the river) and attempt the rapid again.

It’s important to note that depending on rain and other factors the river can run differently almost daily. You will encounter rocks, branches and even logs if a tree has fallen and not yet been removed by land management authorities. To dodge river obstacles and navigate the gentle rapids you will need to help yourself along with active paddling, but that’s all part of the fun of getting outdoors and experiencing a natural river environment. Once you’ve got the hang of it, try kneeling down a section of moving water or test out your balance skills by standing up in a deep pool of water. This really is a great outdoor activity that almost anyone can enjoy!

While the river generally stays a stable (but cool) 14 C, the water will feel colder when the outside temperature drops. Over the cooler months we provide complimentary wetsuit hire and have a range of sizes on offer. Our sleds are 2 m long and are made from high grade PVC rafting material, making them almost indestructible. They are the ultimate in comfort and durability and will help protect your shins and elbows from the occasional knocks and bumps as you float down the river.

Please remember to participate in this activity you must be able to swim, you must be aged 8 or above, you must be 130cm in height or above and have the arm width to control and manoeuvre your sled effectively. If you are not a confident swimmer or require assistance in a moving water environment we strongly recommend talking to us about hiring a river guide or booking our guided river sledding adventure. We also recommend hiring a personal flotation device (PFD), which you can do at checkout.

If you can’t see the time and date that you’d like please give us a call and we’ll help you out.

Pricing options.

Booking & cancellation. All payments and paperwork must be completed & received prior to participation.

Group Tour

AUD
Adult
$50
Child
$50
  • Inclusions

    • Round-trip transfers to and from the meet up location in Warburton
    • River sled
    • Shuttle upstream
    • Safety briefing.
  • Exclusions

    • Meals and beverages
    • Other personal expenses
    • Travel or medical insurance.
  • Packing List

    • Come ready to go in your swimmers
    • Closed toe shoes or wetsuit booties
    • Rash vest or wetsuit
    • Change of clothes
    • Towel
    • Sunscreen
    • Hand sanitizer
    • A phone or camera for photos.
  • Know before you book

    • Warburton Adventure Company is a Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operator and is fully insured
    • This activity is not suitable for children under the age of 8
    • Children aged 8 and above must be accompanied by a paying adult
    • You must be 130cm or above as you need to height and arm width to manoeuvre the river sled effectively
    • You must be able to swim
    • You must weigh no more than 110kgs
    • You must have a reasonable level of fitness and balance
    • If you have back, neck, joint or muscular problems, you should carefully consider whether or not to participate
    • If you are not confident or comfortable in a moving water environment then carefully consider if this is the right activity for you
    • You can hire a river guide at check out to accompany your group if you need assistance in a moving water environment or consider our guided river sledding adventure
    • Replacement cost for a river sled that is lost / stolen or beyond repair is $450.00
    • You will need to complete our pre-arrival waiver, medical consent and Covid-19 declaration form prior to your adventure
    • This activity begins in Warburton, which is approximately 75 minutes from Melbourne. You must make your own way to the designated meeting point.

"My 3 kids and I absolutely loved this experience. The sleds are super study and easy to navigate, paddle etc. The water, river and the whole experience was magical and I rate it as one of my favourite activities I’ve done with kids for a very long time. Thanks Sam."

— Sharryn | AirBnB

Specials & add-on options.

Enhance your adventure experience with a little added luxury, or add-on Warburton Adventure Co. branded essential items to help make the most of your time in nature. Plus, you’ll have a useful, quality momento of your wild adventure! Choose your add-ons at checkout when booking.

Frequently asked questions.

  • What’s the difference between guided and self-guided adventures?

    In our guided adventures you’ll have the safety and assurance of a professional adventure guide with you every step of the way. All our guides are trained and accredited outdoor adventure specialists with current Working with Children Check and First Aid Training. On a self-guided adventure we’ll provide transfers and adventure equipment, but you’ll have the freedom to enjoy the activity at your own pace.

  • Are your adventures suitable for children?

    Yes, most of our adventure activities are suitable for children aged 6 and above. However, please check our age guide listed on our individual adventure products. If you’re unsure which activity is suitable for your child please contact us to discuss your options.

  • Is river sledding similar to rafting?

    No, river sledding is a totally unique experience and is more similar to hardcore liloing than rafting. Our river sleds are purpose designed and built in New Zealand for low level moving water environments. They are 2 m long, weigh 4.4 kgs, have a handle for easy carrying, and are made from high grade PVC rafting material making them almost indestructible. Each person has their own personal river sled and is responsible for navigating it through moving water, which is a totally different experience to being guided in a multi-person raft.

  • Is there an age limit for river sledding?

    Yes, we only offer self-guided river sledding to children aged 6 and above and guided river sledding to children aged 12 and above. It is not advisable for anyone under 130cm to participate in river sledding as you need to have the height and arm width to manoeuvre the sleds safely and effectively.

  • Can I go river sledding on my own?

    Never use a river sled on your own, always have a friend with you.

  • Do I need to be able to swim to go river sledding?

    Yes, you must be able to swim. Water levels are variable along the river with some shallow sections and some very deep pockets. It is also a moving river with some grade 1 & 2 rapids. If you can not swim do not use the river sled. If you are not confident or a weak swimmer you can hire a personal flotation device (PFD) from us.

  • Do I need to wear shoes in the river?

    We highly recommend wearing river booties or sneakers to avoid glass and other obstacles found in the river such as fish hooks and debris.

  • Do you provide wetsuits or wetsuit tops for river sledding?

    Yes, we do. We provide a neoprene wetsuit top and farmers wetsuit option for hire. The Yarra River remains cool all year round and while refreshing it is advisable to wear board shorts with a wetsuit top in summer and a farmer’s wetsuit and wetsuit top in winter.

  • What happens if it is raining on the day of my tour booking?

    If it’s a little light drizzle we’ll continue with the adventure as planned. However, if it turns to torrential rain with high winds then we’ll work with you to reschedule your tour for another date. While some inclement weather is to be expected in nature based adventures, we take your comfort and safety in the outdoors very seriously.

  • What happens if it starts raining while I’m out on tour?

    If it’s a little light drizzle then we’ll continue with the adventure as planned. However, if the weather turns quickly then we’ll make a judgement call based on how quickly the shower will pass, how strong the rain is, if there is lightning, thunder and strong winds. While some inclement weather is to be expected in nature based adventures, we take your comfort and safety in the outdoors very seriously.

  • Do you provide catering on tour?

    We currently provide a unique Silva Coffee Roasters tasting experience available on selected tours. Partnering with Oscars on the Yarra we are now providing a special picnic experience that can be enjoyed at the conclusion of your adventure tour in a lush tranquil setting by the Yarra River. You can choose from a selection of sandwiches, an antipasto platter or 3 cheese picnic boxes. Pair with a bottle of wine or champagne bought separately.