Rafting the New & Gauley Rivers in Southern West Virginia
New River (Season runs April 1 – October)
More than 150,000 people raft the New each year as it follows its age-old channel through the spectacular New River Gorge. The New River Gorge National River is the second oldest watershed in the world!
The New River is a great experience for rafters of all skill levels. With two distinct sections of River: The Upper/Middle New is great for beginners, families with younger children (min age normally around 6 yrs), fishermen and kayakers; The Lower New is great for the beginner with enthusiasm or the intermediate rafter.
Gauley River (Season – 6 weekends following Labor Day)
The Gauley River draws about 60,000 rafters each year. The Gauley River is known for the roller coaster rapids, steep drops and heart pounding intensity of the Upper Gauley. This section is strongly recommended for experienced rafters only.
The Lower section boasts over 45 rapids. This section is perfect for the thrill-seeking first timer or for someone who has rafted the New River and is looking for a different type of river.
All outfitters have age & physical requirements for river sections.
*Some information above was provided by the West Virginia Professional River Outfitters.
Inclusive packages on the New and Gauley Rivers and TreeTops Canopy Tour. Combine with lodging, meals and adventure activities for all ability levels. Major credit cards.
Wildwater Expeditions pioneered outdoor adventure in WV 43 years ago. Today, Wildwater offers whitewater rafting, zip line tours, mountain biking, rock climbing, deluxe lodging and a 5 acre park and lake. Major credit cards.
Professional adventure outfitter, with over 35 years of experience. Permier multi-sport outfitter with canyon-rim facilities offering lodging, dining, canopy and zipline tours and more. Major credit cards.
ACE's 1,500 resort is featured on the Travel Channel as North America's Largest Adventure Resort - rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, ATV tours, deluxe lodging, 5-acre adventure park and lake, dining and more. Major credit cards accepted.
Experience history, nature, culture and adventure in the New River Gorge. Affordable rafting, lodging, meals and attraction packages. Amenities include luxury to rustic cabins, campground, RV sites, restaurant, saloon, lodge and gift shop. Major credit cards.
Adventures for all ages. Est. 1977. Rafting trips from mild to wild on the New or Gauley Rivers, 1 mile north of Fayetteville near the New River Gorge Bridge, rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing instruction, caving, biking, cottage rentals, camping, Pub, restaurante. Year-round activities. Major credit cards.
Canyon Rim Resort with whitewater rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers. On-site accommodations, restaurants and multiple outdoor activites from which to choose. Lake waterpark complimentary to all activity guests.
Experience God's creation through adventure at Alpine Ministries. With over 30 years of experience in rafting, caving, rappelling and more, Alpine offers fun, safe, wholesome adventures for all ages.
New River Jetboats, located at Hawks Nest State Park is your perfect way to see the New River Gorge Bridge. Take a scenic tram ride into the Gorge where you will climb on board "Miss M Rocks" for an upstream run and 'the best view' of the bridge. Rand McNally's "Best of the Road" Major credit cards.