Learning to Kayak in the New River Gorge National Park

The New River Gorge National Park is one of the best places in the country to learn how to kayak, offering a stunning setting with a variety of whitewater challenges. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, ACE Adventure Resort provides expert kayak instruction on the Upper New River, a perfect location for both beginners and more advanced paddlers. ACE’s skilled instructors will guide you through progressive learning, ensuring you master the fundamentals before advancing to more challenging techniques. The Gorge is home to a large, supportive boating community, so you’ll always feel welcome and encouraged as you learn. Plus, you’ll get access to top-of-the-line gear and expert guidance on how to use it, ensuring you’re set up for success from your very first paddle stroke. Get ready to explore some of the most beautiful rivers in the country, all while developing the skills to confidently take on the rapids!

The Upper New River is the Perfect Classroom

The Upper New River is the ideal location for beginner kayak instruction, offering a perfect blend of class II and III rapids that provide an exciting challenge without overwhelming new paddlers. The river’s natural pool-drop structure means you’ll experience calm pools between the rapids, giving you a chance to recover, practice basic skills, and build confidence before tackling the next stretch. With warm water, beautiful scenery, and easy access, it’s an incredible place to learn while soaking in the views of the New River Gorge. Plus, the water levels are predictable and reliable, meaning you’ll always find great conditions to paddle, making it a year-round destination for paddling and progression. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve, the Upper New River offers everything you need for a smooth and rewarding kayaking experience.

Meet Your Whitewater Instructor

At ACE Adventure Resort, our ACA Pro School-certified kayak instructors bring decades of hands-on experience to the water. These instructors are not just teachers—they’re passionate paddlers who spend their days on the New River Gorge, constantly honing their skills and staying at the top of their game. With deep roots in the Gorge’s waterways, they know the ins and outs of the river like the back of their hand, ensuring that you receive expert instruction tailored to your skill level. The New River Gorge is home to a large, supportive boating community, so whether you’re a beginner or advanced paddler, you’ll be welcomed into an environment that encourages learning and growth. Our instructors are dedicated to helping you progress at your own pace, giving you the confidence and knowledge you need to become a skilled kayaker.

The Best Gear in the Industry

When it comes to whitewater kayaking, having the right gear is essential for both safety and performance. At ACE Adventure Resort, we use the latest and highest-quality gear in the industry to ensure you’re fully equipped for success on the water. Our ACE Adventure Gear shop has everything you need, from kayaks and paddles to personal flotation devices (PFDs), helmets, and even protective clothing for comfort and warmth. We’ve got you covered from head to toe with top-notch gear, plus essentials like sunscreen and water shoes. Whether you’re renting or purchasing, you can trust that ACE will provide you with the best equipment for your kayaking adventure, so you can focus on having fun and learning with confidence!

A Paddler’s Paradise

The New River Gorge is a true paradise for whitewater kayakers, offering something for every skill level, from easy beginner runs to some of the most challenging and technical steep creeks in the world. Whether you’re looking to hone your skills on mellow rapids or take on wild, dramatic drops, this stunning river offers endless opportunities for adventure. And for those who love playboating or squirt boating, the Gorge has that too, with plenty of features for practicing tricks and honing your moves. The region also hosts world-class competitions and events, attracting top paddlers from all over. With reliable water flows year-round, you’ll always have the perfect conditions to paddle, keeping you off the couch and on the water, no matter the season. The New River Gorge is truly the perfect home for any whitewater kayaker looking for variety, challenge, and a vibrant paddling community!

Ready to Start Your Paddling Journey?

Sign up for kayak instruction with ACE Adventure Resort and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Our expert instructors are passionate about whitewater kayaking and eager to share their knowledge with you. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience on the water, our instructors will show you why the New River Gorge is the perfect playground for paddlers. Join us today and experience the thrill of playing and exploring this stunning river while building the skills and confidence to tackle the rapids!