Whitewater Rafting on the New River

Whitewater rafting on the New River in West Virginia is one of the signature outdoor experiences in the eastern United States, drawing tens of thousands of paddlers each year to the New River Gorge region near Fayetteville. The New River Gorge contains more than 20 miles of commercially navigable whitewater, split broadly into the Upper New River (Class I–III) and the Lower New River Gorge (Class III–V). The lower gorge, from Cunard to Fayetteville, features the most intense rapids — including Millers Folly, Surprise, and the Undercut Rock section — and is the primary destination for experienced paddlers. Half-day trips on the lower gorge typically run 5 to 7 miles and take approximately 4 hours on the water; full-day trips extend to 14–16 miles with 8 hours of paddling. The upper gorge is better suited to families and beginners, with gentler Class I–III rapids and longer flat-water stretches that allow appreciation of the forested gorge walls. All commercial trips are run by licensed outfitters based in and around Fayetteville; most include equipment, a safety briefing, a certified river guide, and shuttle transportation to and from the put-in. Prices range from approximately $100 to $180 per person for a half-day trip and $130 to $220 for a full day, varying by outfitter and season. The season runs from April through October, with April and May typically offering the highest water levels after snowmelt and spring rains. September and early October coincide with the nearby Gauley Season, drawing paddlers from across the country to the Fayetteville area. Age and weight minimums apply to the lower gorge trips; most outfitters require participants on Class V sections to be at least 15 to 16 years old.