Upper New River Express Trip | Single Day
River Expeditions now offers an abbreviated trip through the Upper Section of the New River Gorge National Park, for time-sensitive or budget-conscious travelers.
Beginner
6+
2-3 hours
May - October
Single Day Rates
Sunday-Friday: $85
Saturday: $95
*On May 26 and September 1 Holiday (Saturday) rates apply.*
Beginner Class
- Beginner – Easy
- Class I – III Rapids
- No Experience Necessary
- Minimum Age: 6
Short on time? Our Upper New River Express Trip is only 2 to 3 hours in duration and includes a guided rafting adventure, transportation and all necessary rafting equipment. Hit the highlights of the Upper New River Canyon on this alternative to the Full Day Trip. Unlike our Full Day Trip, the Upper New River Express Trip does NOT include continental breakfast, lunch, beverages after the trip, stopping along the way, the use of duckies (inflatable kayaks), history/nature interpretation, etc.
Convenient morning and afternoon departure times are available; based on availability; reservations required. Since this is a short river trip, there’s time to add a Zipline Adventure on the same day. Cabins and Camping are also available on site at River Expeditions.
Trip Details
Trip Length: 2-3 hours
This fully guided expedition includes all necessary river equipment, as well as round trip shuttle transportation from River Expeditions’ basecamp. Although this trip is 2-3 hours in duration, it is often referred to as a “half-day” trip. Guests love that there are two convenient departure times – morning and afternoon.
What is Beginner Class?
Family Class Trips (min. age 6) are a playful introduction to river rafting in West Virginia. They are great for families with young children or older adults who want a low-impact adventure. These trips feature easy-to-moderate rapids, tranquil pools, and amazing scenery. Single and two-person duckies (inflatable kayaks) are also available on our full-day trips for added fun.
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.
Additional Trips
Upper New River | Single Day
Beginner
6+
5-7 hours
Starting at $115/person
May - October
Lower New River | Single Day
Intermediate
12+
5-7 hours
Starting at $125/person
May - October
