Rafting FAQs

Yes. Every trip is led by professional guides who know the New and Gauley Rivers extremely well, and everyone wears a Coast Guard–approved life jacket and helmet the entire time on the water.​

Kids as young as 6 can join the family‑friendly Upper New River trips, which are designed with gentle, beginner‑level rapids and lots of play time.​

Choose the Upper New River for younger kids and first‑timers who want a fun, relaxed day with just a splash of whitewater.​

The Lower New River and Lower Gauley offer bigger waves and longer rapids that are perfect for fit beginners, teens, and adults who are ready for more excitement.​

The Upper Gauley in the fall is the top‑end challenge, with steep drops and powerful Class V rapids that have made it one of the most famous big‑water runs in the country.​

The Upper New is a laid‑back, kid‑friendly stretch with easy rapids, plenty of time to float, swim, play games, and try inflatable kayaks, making it ideal for families and nervous first‑timers.​

The Lower New River Gorge is a full‑day, high‑volume adventure with big waves, long rapids, jump rocks, swimming spots, and a riverside lunch, and is often called the “just right” level of excitement.​

In late summer and especially during fall “Gauley Season,” the river turns into a big‑water playground, with the Lower Gauley offering stunning scenery plus powerful rapids and the Upper Gauley delivering intense, technical whitewater for experienced or very adventurous guests.​

First‑timers with younger kids should pick the Upper New, while adults and older teens who want more action usually start on the Lower New or Lower Gauley, depending on season and comfort level.​

Strong swimming skills are not required for most trips however, you should be comfortable in and around water; your guide will coach you on what to do and your life jacket is designed to keep you afloat.​ 

If you are rafting the Upper Gauley, strong swimming skills are necessary to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Your guide will show you simple, clear steps before you go: stay calm, float on your back with your feet downstream, and follow instructions to get back in the boat or to the riverbank.​

Yes. A professional river guide is in each raft to steer, call commands, and keep your crew working together so you can focus on having fun.​

Most trips are paddle‑raft trips where guests help power and steer the raft, which is part of the fun and keeps you more engaged with the river.​

You’ll be outfitted with a safety helmet, Coast Guard–approved life jacket, and paddle for every rafting trip, and many full‑day trips include a riverside lunch.​

In cooler weather, we have wetsuits or splash jackets available to rent so you can stay warm on spring New River or fall Gauley trips.​

Small, snug items might stay on, but anything valuable that could slip off in the water is safest left behind; the river is great at keeping what it takes.​

Loose phones and cameras can easily be lost or damaged in big water; if allowed, only bring them in proper waterproof cases with secure leashes or mounts.​

Wear a swimsuit or quick‑dry shorts and top, plus secure footwear like river sandals with a heel strap or closed‑toe water shoes, no flip‑flops.​

Avoid cotton and choose synthetic or wool base layers that stay warm when wet; pair them with a wetsuit or splash jacket if recommended for spring New or fall Gauley trips.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and any necessary medications. We will keep your keys safe on-site. All other valuables should be kept in your vehicle along with a towel and a change of clothes. Showers and changing rooms are available for use after your trip.