Last updated: April 19, 2021
Thing to Do
Whitewater Boating
Gary Hartley
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve includes 53 miles of free-flowing New River, beginning at Bluestone Dam and ending at Hawks Nest Lake. The New River typifies big West Virginia style whitewater. Within the park it has two very different characters. The upper (southern) part of the river consists primarily of long pools, and relatively easy rapids up to Class III. It is a big powerful river, but very beautiful, always runnable, and providing excellent fishing and camping. There are a number of different river access points, and trips can run from several hours to several days.
The lower (northern) section of river is often referred to as "the Lower Gorge." In a state that is justifiably renowned for colossal rapids, the Lower Gorge has some of the biggest of the big with rapids ranging in difficulty from Class III to Class V. The rapids are imposing and forceful, many of them obstructed by large boulders which necessitate maneuvering in very powerful currents, crosscurrents, and hydraulics. Some rapids contain hazardous undercut rocks.
The lower (northern) section of river is often referred to as "the Lower Gorge." In a state that is justifiably renowned for colossal rapids, the Lower Gorge has some of the biggest of the big with rapids ranging in difficulty from Class III to Class V. The rapids are imposing and forceful, many of them obstructed by large boulders which necessitate maneuvering in very powerful currents, crosscurrents, and hydraulics. Some rapids contain hazardous undercut rocks.
Details
Activity
Boating
How to Go
In addition to running the river on your own, a number of licensed outfitters offer guided trips on the New River. Trained guides, equipment, instruction, transportation to and from the river, and meals are provided. Trips vary in length from several hours to several days, and offer different degrees of difficulty, from peaceful float and fishing trips to crashing whitewater excitement.When to Go
Ranging from mild riffles on the upper parts to big whitewater rapids in the lower section, the New River offers something for everyone. The New has trips available year-round, with the season running from April through October.Paddling On Your Own
The section of the New River from Hinton to Thurmond offers challenging Class I, II, and III rapids suitable for intermediate whitewater paddlers, and consists primarily of long pools and moderate rapids.Downstream from Thurmond the river narrows and includes technical Class III - IV rapids. The New River below Thurmond is suitable only for advanced and expert paddlers. The New River is a powerful and beautiful river that usually has enough water to run.
There are a number of different access points on the New River, and trips can run from several hours to several days.
Safety First
Running whitewater rivers is inherently risky. Prior to putting on a river, individual trip participants must recognize and assume responsibility for the attendant dangers, which include -- but are not limited to -- possible loss of life. Before attempting any river, paddlers should satisfy themselves that every person in their group understands the inherent risks of river running, freely assumes responsibility for their own safety, and possesses the necessary skill and prior experience to reasonably ensure a safe trip.Age(s)
When rafting with a proffessional outfitter different trips are available for different ages. Contact the outfitters for more information.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Boating is free if you are paddling on your own. Commercial outfitters charge for guided river trips.
Commercial Whitewater Information
NPS photo/Louise McLaughlin A number of licensed outfitters offer guided trips on the New and Gauley Rivers. Trained guides, equipment, instruction, transportation to and from the river, and meals are provided. Trips vary in length from several hours to several days, and offer different degrees of difficulty -- from peaceful float and fishing trips to crashing whitewater excitement. The New River has trips available almost year-round, with the season running from April through October. Ranging from mild pools and riffles on the upper parts to big whitewater rapids in the lower section, the New offers something for everyone. The Gauley River is more for the whitewater enthusiast, with a number of steep and technical rapids. The main season is early-September through mid-October, though trips are sometimes available at other times of the year. List of commercial outfitters licensed by the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources:ACE Adventure Resort Adventures On The Gorge Alpine Ministries New and Gauley River Adventures River Expeditions West Virginia Adventures |
Reservations
No
Reservations are not needed for private boaters. If you are rafting with a commercial outfitter, contact the outfitter for reservations.
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
For boaters going on the river with a commercial outfitter, contact the outfitter for accessiblity information.