White water rafting trips on the New River
Within the 50-mile stretch of the New River Gorge National River, the river is divided into two distinct sections, the Upper and Lower New River. At the southern end of the park, the Upper New, the river is more placid than its lower counterpart. Intermediate canoeists encounter a few challenging Class III rapids and beginning boaters enjoy Class I to III rapids for a leisurely float with excellent fishing opportunities. North of Thurmond, the Lower New, the river’s famous whitewater (more than 25 Class II to Class IV rapids) begins in earnest. Each section offers custome experiences with several trip options including multi-day overnight trips.
- Lower New River
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Big Water Canyon
Big, fast, playful and fun, the Lower New River is a whitewater roller coaster ride of towering, crashing waves. With more than 25 Class II to Class IV rapids, including thumpers like The Keeney Brothers, Upper and Lower Railroad, Greyhound Bus-Stopper, and Double-Z, the Lower New offers enough thrills and adventure for any enthusiast. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the "New" cuts its bed from the rugged West Virginia mountains, winding through the 1,000-foot deep gorge over a mile wide in areas is known far and wide as The Grand Canyon of the East - a breathtaking sight in her spring, summer, or fall colors. Historic mining ghost towns pepper the gorge's walls. Calm pools between rapids give you a chance to catch your breath, take a swim, and to enjoy the awesome scenery and the abundance of wildlife... from beaver to cardinal flowers to whitetail deer. With friends from home or from the office, for one day or more, this is a memorable adventure for both the experienced and beginner rafters.
- Upper New River
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Prince Canyon
Whitewater Rafting the mild Upper New River rapids in NARR’s 16-foot roomy, stable rafts is the perfect, kid-friendly family vacation activity. Your professional Guide navigates easy Class I to III rapids, separated by flat pools of warm summertime water, that are perfect for splashing, swimming, playing games or just sitting back and enjoying the scenery. Many of our guests choose to a Duckie, our most popular watercraft on the Upper New. A cross between a canoe and kayak these inflatable play boats are stable, lightweight, highly manuerverable and easy to paddle. It makes even the smallest rapids a thrilling experience. A delicious riverside lunch makes the day complete.
- New River Map
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New River Map
The New River Gorge National Park is a National Treasure, preserved for future generations. Considered to be one of the oldest rivers in the world, it is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East". The gorge itself is over a 1,000-feet deep and over a mile wide in places. It's natural wonder alone is worth visiting, add in the fact that the mighty New River below has some of America's premier white water and you have an adventure destination to experience an unforgetable journey through time and wonder.
*Map is not to scale.
The New River has many access points (blue names), and depending on the water level, we will choose the best access point to provide you with the very best experience.
Questions about availability? Need more info on the New River?
Give us a call at 800.950.2585
A $3.00 per person, per guided activity Resource Use Fee is applied to each reservation.
Release Forms
Save time and download and fill out your release form before you arrive.
Download our Rafting and Adventure Activities Liability Waiver
