Buckle up for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the stunning Lower New section of the New River Gorge. This full-day whitewater rafting adventure promises an unforgettable experience, with Class IV+ rapids to conquer and breathtaking scenery to take in. Led by expert guides, you’ll navigate the churning waters, spot wildlife, and enjoy a riverside lunch – all while enjoying the natural beauty of West Virginia’s iconic river gorge. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a first-time rafter, this excursion is sure to leave you craving more. Get ready to embark on an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Key Points

- Full-day whitewater rafting adventure on the challenging Class IV+ rapids of the Lower New River in West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park.
- Guided experience with professional river guides, including safety supervision and the opportunity to spot wildlife like deer, river otters, and bald eagles.
- Amenities such as a freshly prepared riverside lunch, all necessary rafting gear, and round-trip transportation from the ACE Adventure Resort.
- Suitable for thrill-seekers aged 12 and up, with a 5/5 overall experience rating and difficulty level from customer reviews.
- Additional adventure activities available at the resort, including ziplines, guided hiking trails, and an aerial adventure park.
Activity Overview

For those seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure, the New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting tour offers an unparalleled whitewater experience.
Priced at $153.73 per person, this full-day excursion lasts approximately 7 hours and is suitable for ages 12 and up. Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour offers a challenging Class IV+ rapids experience, with opportunities for swimming, surfing waves, and jumping from rocks.
Sightings of local wildlife, such as deer, river otters, and bald eagles, add to the thrill of the journey through the New River Gorge National Park.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New River Gorge National Park.
Itinerary and Transportation

The New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting tour begins at the ACE Adventure Resort in West Virginia.
From there, a bus or coach takes participants on a 10-minute journey to the river.
After an exciting day navigating the challenging rapids of the New River Gorge National Park, the group is transported back to the resort.
The itinerary includes:
- A guided trip through the stunning New River Gorge
- Encountering rapids up to Class IV+ with a professional guide
- The opportunity to swim in easy rapids, surf waves, and jump from rocks
The return trip to the resort completes this exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure.
Rafting Experience

Guided through the stunning New River Gorge National Park, the whitewater rafting experience challenges participants with rapids up to Class IV+.
Under the supervision of professional guides, adventurers can expect an exhilarating journey filled with swimming through easy rapids, surfing waves, and even jumping from rocks.
Along the way, they may spot diverse wildlife, including deer, river otters, and majestic bald eagles.
The adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking scenery make this rafting trip a truly unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers ages 12 and up.
Amenities and Inclusions

Whitewater rafting participants typically receive a comprehensive package of included amenities, such as all necessary rafting equipment, a freshly prepared lunch served riverside, and round-trip transportation to and from the river.
The experience also includes the services of a professional river guide, who ensures the group’s safety and enhances the overall adventure.
Plus, the package covers gratuities, as well as complimentary photos and/or video of the trip, allowing rafters to capture and cherish their memories.
The attention to detail and inclusive nature of the offering create a hassle-free, immersive whitewater experience that caters to the needs and expectations of adventurous travelers.
- ⚡ Exhilarating
- 🍽️ Satisfying
- 🎥 Memorable
Customer Reviews
Based on the one customer review available, rafters appear to have been thoroughly impressed with the New River Gorge whitewater adventure. The trip received a perfect 5/5 rating, indicating an exceptional experience for participants. The table below highlights some of the key positive sentiments expressed in the review:
| Reviewer Sentiment | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Experience | 5/5 |
| Difficulty Level | 5/5 |
| Guide Expertise | 5/5 |
| Scenery | 5/5 |
| Value | 5/5 |
The review suggests that the New River Gorge whitewater rafting trip offers an exhilarating and memorable adventure for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Meeting Point
Travelers can find the meeting point for the New River Gorge whitewater rafting adventure at the Rafting Check-in area of the ACE Adventure Resort. This location offers a convenient starting point, ensuring a seamless transition from the resort to the exhilarating river experience.
Upon arrival, guests can:
- Receive a warm welcome from the friendly staff
- Gather any last-minute supplies or equipment needed for the trip
- Prepare mentally and physically for the thrilling whitewater adventure that lies ahead
The meeting point is clearly marked, allowing guests to easily find their way and commence their unforgettable journey through the breathtaking New River Gorge National Park.
Dining and Accommodation
The ACE Adventure Resort offers a variety of dining and accommodation options to complement the whitewater rafting experience.
Guests can enjoy hot, grilled, and deli-style lunches right on the river during the rafting trip.
Back at the resort, they’ll find an array of dining choices, including a full-service restaurant, a casual cafe, and a snack bar.
For those seeking overnight stays, the resort provides rental cabins, chalets, and glamping tents, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning New River Gorge setting.
With these amenities, guests can make the most of their whitewater adventure and create a well-rounded experience.
Additional Adventures
Along With the whitewater rafting, the ACE Adventure Resort offers a variety of other adrenaline-fueled activities for visitors to enjoy.
Guests can soar high above the gorge on a zipline, navigating a series of platforms and sky bridges suspended between towering cliffs.
For those seeking a more serene experience, the resort’s guided hiking trails provide opportunities to take in the stunning natural beauty of the New River Gorge.
Plus, thrill-seekers can test their skills on the resort’s aerial adventure park, which features challenging obstacles and obstacles suspended above the forest floor.
- Zipline through the New River Gorge
- Hike the resort’s guided trails
- Explore the aerial adventure park
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Number of People Required for the Rafting Trip?
The trip doesn’t specify a minimum number of people required. Participants can book as individuals or in groups of any size, as long as they meet the age requirement of 12 and up.
Do Participants Need to Know How to Swim?
Participants don’t need to know how to swim for this whitewater rafting trip. The guides provide all necessary safety equipment and instruction to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, regardless of swimming ability.
Are There Any Age Restrictions Beyond the 12+ Requirement?
The minimum age requirement for this activity is 12 years old. Participants younger than 11 years old are not permitted to join the whitewater rafting trip. There are no further age restrictions beyond the 12+ requirement.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?
Participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the whitewater rafting trip. The package includes a provided lunch and all necessary equipment. Any outside items are not permitted for safety and logistical reasons.
Is There an Option to Rent Wetsuits or Other Gear?
Yes, participants can rent wetsuits and other gear at the outfitter’s store. The trip includes all necessary rafting equipment, but customers have the option to rent additional items if desired.
Recap
Discover the exhilarating world of New River Gorge whitewater rafting on a full-day adventure through the stunning Lower New section. With expert guides, challenging Class IV+ rapids, and breathtaking scenery, this unforgettable outing showcases the natural beauty of West Virginia’s iconic river gorge. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the thrill of this outdoor adventure.
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