White Water Rafting New River Gorge: The Ultimate West Virginia Adventure Guide

There are plenty of places to go rafting in the United States, but the New River Gorge offers something special. The river flows through a spectacular Appalachian canyon featuring enormous sandstone cliffs, giant boulders, dense forests and remote stretches of wilderness. Instead of simply viewing the New River Gorge from an overlook, rafting allows you to experience the gorge from the bottom.

Then there are the rapids. The Lower New River is known for powerful whitewater created as the river travels through massive boulder fields. These natural obstacles create waves, drops, currents and exciting rapids that require everyone in the raft to work together.

But white water rafting New River Gorge isn't just for experienced adventurers. Professional rafting companies offer guided trips for different skill levels, including options suitable for beginners and families. Choosing the right section of the New River is the first step.

Families and first-time rafters should consider starting with the Upper New River. The Upper New generally offers calmer water with Class I, II and occasional Class III rapids. There are long stretches of relatively peaceful water between the rapids, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery. Depending on the trip and river conditions, there may also be opportunities to swim and relax along the river.

Because the whitewater is generally less intense, many rafting outfitters offer Upper New River trips for families with younger children. Minimum ages vary by company and water conditions, so always confirm age requirements before booking. The Upper New can also be a great introduction to white water rafting New River Gorge for anyone who is unsure about tackling the larger rapids downstream.

If you're looking for bigger whitewater and more excitement, consider the Lower New River. This is the section most people imagine when they hear about white water rafting New River Gorge. As the New River enters the deeper gorge, the rapids become larger and more challenging. Commercial rafting trips generally encounter a combination of Class III and Class IV rapids, although difficulty can change depending on water levels.

The Lower New offers an interesting combination of intense whitewater and calmer pools. One moment you may be floating peacefully through the gorge while admiring the cliffs and mountains. A few minutes later, your rafting guide may be shouting paddle commands as your group approaches another major rapid.

That combination of scenery and adventure has helped make the Lower New one of West Virginia's signature outdoor experiences.

Never been white water rafting? Don't worry. Many people experiencing white water rafting New River Gorge are first-time rafters.

Your adventure will typically begin at the rafting company's headquarters. After checking in, you'll meet your guides and receive the equipment needed for your trip. Your rafting guide will explain important safety information and basic paddle commands before entering significant whitewater. You'll then travel to the river access point and begin your adventure.

One of the great things about the New River is the variety. You may encounter stretches of relatively calm water where you can relax and enjoy the scenery before reaching the next major rapid. Your guide will provide instructions as your raft approaches the whitewater. Listen carefully, paddle when instructed and enjoy the ride.

You're going to get wet. Plan accordingly. Quick-drying clothing is generally preferable to heavy cotton clothing. Wear secure footwear appropriate for being in and around the water.

Sunscreen is also important, particularly during summer trips when you'll spend several hours outdoors. Consider bringing a complete change of clothes and dry shoes for after your rafting adventure.

You should also ask your rafting company about bringing phones, cameras, sunglasses and other personal items onto the river. Leaving valuables behind is often the safest option.

Absolutely. The key is choosing the appropriate trip. Families and inexperienced rafters may want to begin with an Upper New River adventure. The smaller rapids provide plenty of excitement without the intensity of the Lower New.

Visitors looking for more adventure can consider the Lower New. Most commercial rafting companies clearly identify the difficulty level and minimum age for each trip. If you're uncertain which adventure is appropriate, contact the outfitter and explain the ages and experience levels of everyone in your group.

Don't visit the New River Gorge just for rafting. There is far too much to see. A white water rafting New River Gorge trip can easily become the centerpiece of a two-, three- or four-day West Virginia vacation. Spend one day rafting and use another day to explore the national park.

Popular activities throughout the area include:

• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• Rock climbing
• Fishing
• Camping
• Scenic drives
• Photography
• Wildlife watching
• Visiting historic areas
• Exploring waterfalls
• Visiting scenic overlooks

One attraction you definitely shouldn't miss is the New River Gorge Bridge. Stretching dramatically across the gorge, the bridge has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in West Virginia. Several overlooks and hiking trails provide outstanding views of the bridge and surrounding mountains.

Fayetteville makes an excellent base for exploring the New River Gorge. The small West Virginia mountain town sits near the New River Gorge Bridge and provides convenient access to hiking trails, rafting companies, restaurants and outdoor recreation.

After spending the day rafting, visitors can head into Fayetteville for dinner before returning to a nearby cabin, campground, hotel or resort. Spending a few nights in the area allows you to experience much more than the river itself.

Visitors researching white water rafting New River Gorge will probably also hear about the Gauley River. Both rivers provide excellent whitewater adventures, but the experiences can be very different.

The New River offers rafting opportunities throughout much of the traditional outdoor recreation season and has options suitable for both families and adventure seekers. The Gauley River is particularly famous for its intense fall rafting season when scheduled releases from Summersville Lake create powerful whitewater. Experienced visitors sometimes plan trips that include both rivers. You might spend one day exploring the New River before tackling the Gauley during its famous fall rafting season.

West Virginia has no shortage of incredible outdoor adventures, but few allow you to experience the state's mountains quite like rafting through the New River Gorge. Instead of simply looking down into the canyon from an overlook, you're traveling directly through it.

Massive cliffs rise above the river. Forested mountains stretch into the distance. Huge sandstone boulders create exciting rapids. And somewhere along the journey, you may find yourself looking toward the massive New River Gorge Bridge from hundreds of feet below. It's an entirely different perspective on one of America's most impressive national parks.

Whether you're planning a family vacation, weekend getaway or outdoor adventure with friends, white water rafting New River Gorge offers something for almost everyone. Families and first-time rafters can experience the gentler waters of the Upper New River. Adventure seekers can head downstream and challenge the exciting rapids of the Lower New.

Professional rafting outfitters throughout the New River Gorge region make planning your trip relatively simple by providing guides, equipment and transportation. Most importantly, don't rush your visit. Give yourself enough time to explore Fayetteville, hike through New River Gorge National Park, visit scenic overlooks and experience the incredible Appalachian landscape surrounding the river.

West Virginia is known as the Mountain State for good reason. And there may be no better way to experience those mountains than from a raft floating through the heart of the New River Gorge. If you're searching for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in West Virginia, add white water rafting New River Gorge to your travel plans. From family-friendly float trips to exciting Class III and IV rapids, the New River provides an adventure you'll remember long after you've left the Mountain State.

Need more trip inspiration? Explore things to do near New River Gorge or plan your stay around Summersville.