

Lower New River | Single Day
This is River Expeditions’ signature rafting trip, artfully blending history, natural beauty, culture and excitement to create the classic whitewater adventure. Discover why people keep coming back to raft the New River Gorge time after time—they know that every trip is different, each one thrilling, fun and unforgettable.
The Lower New River Gorge alternates from rapids to calm pools, allowing paddlers a break between the action. As the gorge narrows, water tumbles over huge boulders forming big, splashy waves and moderate to difficult rapids. You’ll encounter giant holes, roller coaster waves and plenty of action packed whitewater excitement plus extras on this single-day expedition like Jump Rock, Swimmer’s Rapid and even Surfing – West Virginia style!
Commonly referred to as “The Grand Canyon of the East,” this trip blends the elements of history, nature, culture and scenic beauty to create the classic whitewater adventure. You’ll even finish the trip beneath the world famous New River Gorge Bridge.
River Expeditions guides are friendly, experienced, patient and engaging. They’re committed to showing your family a fantastic time on the river. Your guide will seamlessly blend talent with enthusiasm while sharing their love and knowledge of the river.
Trip Details
Choose to be in a guided raft or try paddling your own highly responsive, easy to paddle “ducky” (inflatable kayak which holds one or two people) for added challenges and fun.
What is Adventure Class?
Adventure Class Trips (min. age 12) are more challenging than Family Class Trips. These rafting in West Virginia trips are characterized by alternating pools and drops that create big, roller coaster-type waves and rapids. Adventure Class Trips are suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.
Package Options
Single Day Rafting:
Continental Breakfast
Riverside Deli Lunch
Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
Value Package:
Single Day Rafting
2 Nights Camping
Continental Breakfast Daily
Deluxe Dinner
Double Run:
Continental Breakfast
Riverside Deli Lunch
Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
6 Rafters Required
Small Raft Upgrades
River Expeditions offers the option to upgrade to a smaller raft, allowing you the flexibility to choose EITHER a more challenging ride OR a more “personal” raft to maintain closeness with only those in your party. Small rafts upgrades are available as an add-on to any river trip we run. Two small raft options include: 7-person maximum (Wildside) or 4-person maximum (Extreme Wildside).
For those who seek to test your limits and an even bigger adrenaline rush, smaller rafts provide higher performance and increased maneuverability. This aggressive approach is for experienced, enthusiastic paddlers who want to see the river from a new perspective. On the Gauley River, this trip is recommended for those over the age of 18, with prior class V+ rafting experience, excellent health and the ability to calmly respond to adverse and difficult whitewater situations.
For those who seek to experience the river in a more personal setting, without the added challenge, smaller rafts can offer the feel of a “private” raft. This option is great families or groups who want to stay together in their own raft. When reserving a small raft, please specify whether you want a more thrilling ride or want to maintain closeness with those in your group. Small raft upgrades are available on any trip offered on the New River or Gauley River, based on availability. Some restrictions may apply.
RATES
SMALL RAFT UPGRADE | GUESTS PER BOAT | NEW RIVER | GAULEY RIVER |
---|---|---|---|
Wildside | 7 | $140* | $210* |
Extreme Wildside | 4 | $140* | $180* |
* Small raft prices are per boat per, day. An additional $20 per person applies to these upgrade rates on Saturdays and Holiday Sundays. No Small Raft Upgrades on the first two Saturdays in September.
Gallery
Additional Trips


Upper New River | Single Day

Beginner

6+

5-7 hours

Starting at $115/person

May - October


Lower New River Express Trip | Single Day

Intermediate

12+

2-3 hours

Starting at $95/person

May - October