Rafting on the New River Gorge, WV

The New River is among the oldest rivers on Earth; designated as a National River in 1978, this northward-flowing river was redesignated as New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in 2021. The New River continues to carve the deepest and longest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains.  Simply put, it is visually stunning and filled with amazing recreational opportunities from float trips and whitewater rafting to stand up paddleboarding and smallmouth bass fishing.

Two sections of the New River offer vastly different trips for all ages and abilities.  The Upper New River affords a playful, low-impact excursion that’s a great introduction to rafting.  While the Lower New River Gorge is a premier rafting destination with imposing rapids that challenge beginner to experienced rafters alike.  Both sections feature magnificent scenery with their own historic and cultural nuances; each balancing the amazing natural ecosystem.