Full Day Lower New River Gorge Oar Boat Whitewater Rafting

Do you have some daring young children who are looking for some more thrills? They’re ten or eleven NOW and they can do anything you can, just ask them. They’re ready to tackle some serious whitewater but still a bit too young to go. (Don’t tell them that though.)  What if we told you we have a rafting trip catered to their age that will give them the “Big Kid” feels, but also provide you with the comfort that this will be a safe experience.  

Unlike standard paddle rafting trips, your group will have a private raft reserved exclusively for your party with no additional guests added to the boat. And the kids, well, just tell them they have their own personal guide and chauffeur, and they will never know that they aren’t the “Big Kids,” quite yet. 

The Lower New River Gorge combines powerful rapids followed by calm pools perfect for cooling off and taking a dip, while immersing yourself in incredible scenery as you travel downstream through the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. This version of the trip has the same exciting rapids and the same incredible scenery, but it is specially designed to allow guests ages 10–11 or those with adaptive needs to experience the excitement of the Lower New while an experienced, specialized guide navigates the raft using long oars. Don’t worry, everyone will still get the opportunity to paddle while the guide uses the oars giving him more control over the boat, making this adventure safer for everyone. 

This trip may also be a great fit for guests with adaptive needs.  If you’ve always wanted to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting but weren’t sure if it was possible, please fill out this form. An experienced member of our team will reach out to discuss your needs and help determine the best options for your adventure. 

Quick Facts:

• Minimum age: 10 years old
• Private 16’ raft for your group only
• Holds up to 6 guests
• Guide rows using oars for enhanced control and maneuverability
• Guests still have opportunities to paddle throughout the trip
• Mix of calm water + exciting rapids
• Ideal for families, younger first-time rafters, and guests seeking a more supportive and adaptive rafting experience 
• Not offered on Saturdays

Why This Trip

This section of the New River is known for its drop-pool style, meaning calm stretches of river follow exciting Class III-IV+ rapids. That gives you time to:

• Swim in calmer pools
• Take in the scenery
• Prepare for the next set of rapids

The oar boat setup allows younger guests to experience the Lower New River with added confidence and control from a highly experienced guide using long oars to navigate through the rapids.

Massive boulders line the river, and every bend delivers a new view making this trip just as scenic as it is exciting.

Trip Highlights

• Class IV+ Rapids: Including Double Z and the Keeney’s
• Jump Rock: Optional cliff jump into the river
• Surfing: Ride the waves in calmer sections
• Swimmers Rapid: Swim through a splashy rapid
• Riverside Lunch: Freshly prepared along the river by your guide
• New River Gorge Bridge: End your trip beneath this iconic landmark
• Private Raft Experience: Your group enjoys the raft exclusively

What to Expect

After check-in, a safety talk, and getting outfitted with your helmet, paddle, and PFD, you’ll head to the river and begin with smaller sets of rapids before stopping for a riverside lunch.

Your guide will navigate the raft using long oars for enhanced control while guests still have the opportunity to paddle and participate throughout the trip.

After lunch, the river picks up with bigger sets of rapids like the Keeney’s, Double Z, and Fayette Station. Between rapids, you’ll have time to swim, relax, and enjoy the views.

Your trip wraps up beneath the New River Gorge Bridge, an unforgettable finish to a full day on the river.

If water levels exceed 4 feet, trips move to the Upper New River for guest safety.

Trip Tips

• Waivers are required for all participants
• Short on time? Call our office at 800-787-3982 to review half day options
• Let us know about any food allergies or dietary needs in advance
• Water shoes, sunglasses, and straps are available in the outfitter store
• Wetsuits are available to rent
• No flip flops or Crocs permitted
• Leave jewelry and valuables behind, items are easily lost on the river
• Your trip leader will secure your car keys
• Create the Full ACE Experience with On-site lodging and meal options to keep you closer to the adventure

Trip Photos

• Whitewater Photography will take photos along the way for purchase after the trip in the Outfitter Store at ACE. 
• Most Full Day Lower New trips have a video boater but it does depend on the size of the trip and overall busyness of trips that day. In order to guarantee your trip is videoed, you must pre-pay for your trip video.