Our Most Popular River Trip

PLEASE NOTE! Oar controlled rafts are required for participants ages 10-11yrs. Call 877.787.3982 to learn more.

Full Day Lower New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting

Ready for more thrills? Look no further than this section of river.  It is time to take on one of the most iconic whitewater rafting trips on the East Coast. 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 paddle downstream through the New River Gorge National Park.

As the New River narrows and drops in elevation, the water builds into big, exciting rapids that flow through deep bends beneath towering sandstone cliffs. This stretch is known as “The Gorge.”

Quick Facts:

• • Minimum age: 12 years old (ages 10-11 must ride in oar-controlled rafts, call 800-787-3982 for more information)
  • Mix of calm water + exciting rapids
  • Ideal for beginners and experienced rafters

• Includes our Best Ride Guarantee for optimal raft size and experience

Why This Trip

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

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

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.

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.

Trip Tips

• • Waivers are required for all participants
  • 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
  • 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: On-site lodging and meal options are available 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. 

We believe adventure should be accessible to everyone. ACE Adventure Resort offers adaptive rafting experiences for guests of all abilities. Our team will work with you to understand your group’s needs and help determine the best trip, equipment, and support options for a safe and enjoyable experience on the river.

Interested in learning more or planning a trip? Complete this form and an Adventure Consultant will reach out to discuss options and availability.