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Conquer the Thrilling Rapids of New River Gorge: Lower New River Afternoon Express Adventure - Hico

Conquer the Thrilling Rapids of New River Gorge: Lower New River Afternoon Express Adventure

Hicochallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Good cardiovascular fitness and basic swimming ability recommended due to Class III/IV rapids and sustained paddling.

Overview

Navigate Class III/IV rapids through New River Gorge National Park and end beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. This thrilling afternoon rafting trip delivers adrenaline and stunning scenery in West Virginia’s celebrated wilderness.

Glen Jean, West Virginia

Lower New River Afternoon Express

$110 per Person | 4 Hours | Ages 11+ | Class III/IV

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Adventure Photos

Lower New River Afternoon Express photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of rafting through the breathtaking New River Gorge National Park! Guided by experts, navigate exhilarating Class III/IV rapids while surrounded by stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains and wildlife. Conclude your adventure beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, a marvel of engineering and natural beauty.

A Quicker Trip with Stunning Scenery!


Rates

  • Group of 4-12 People: $110 per person
  • Group of 13-24 People: $88 per person
  • Group of 25+ People: $77 per person

This trip is for ages 11+.

Monday-Thursday: Get 20% Off! First Responders: Get 50% Off!


Duration

4 Hours


About

Rafting excitement in New River Gorge National Park with one of our highly experienced guides through amazing scenery and Class III/IV rapids. Afternoon trip, no meal provided.

You will start your expedition by checking in at our BaseCamp, and meeting the Trip Leader and your Guide. We will answer any questions or concerns you have, and outfit everyone in your party with a paddle, PFD (flotation/lifejacket), and helmet. On the short bus ride to the river, we will go over safety instructions, get you ready for what to expect, and usually keep you laughing.

At the river, you will get into your group's raft with your Guide, and after a few practice strokes and getting comfortable in the raft, you will get the rush of your first rapid! The scenery through the national forest is spectacular, from remnants of old coal mining operations tucked into majestic mountains and rock formations, to birds of prey and water birds (even bald eagles if you're lucky), and the occasional train that still journeys through the hills of the New River Gorge.

Your trip will complete under the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest single-span arch bridge in the world when it was built, and now the 3rd longest in the world. The bridge is 3000 feet long and 876 feet above the river, making it the 3rd tallest bridge in the US.


Highlights

  • National Park scenery
  • Class III/IV whitewater
  • Ages 11+
  • Personal guide in your raft
  • Afternoon express trip
  • No meal provided
  • 3 PM meet time
  • 6:30 PM return time

Adventure Tips

Wear a properly fitting life jacket

Ensure your life jacket fits snugly for safety during turbulent rapids.

Bring waterproof gear or dry bags

Protect electronics and valuables from splashes and possible immersion.

Keep your paddle firm and listen closely to your guide

Following instructions ensures safety and maximizes your rafting experience.

Prepare for rapid temperature changes

Dress in layers to adjust to cooler river breezes and warmer sun exposure.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle
  • White-tailed deer

History

New River Gorge was a coal mining region before becoming a national park in 2020, preserving both natural and cultural heritage.

Conservation

The park promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile river ecosystems and maintain habitat quality.

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Adventure Hotspots in Hico

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof footwear

Essential

Protects feet and provides traction on slippery river rocks and rafts.

summer specific

Wetsuit or quick-dry clothing

Essential

spring specific

Helmet

Essential

Ensures head protection navigating fast-moving rapids.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from strong sun exposure on open water.

summer specific