Family-Friendly Rafting Adventure on the Upper New River in West Virginia
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including young children comfortable in water.
Overview
Experience a welcoming whitewater rafting trip perfect for families with kids ages 5 and up on the Upper New River near Hico, WV. Enjoy gentle rapids, stunning forest scenery, and expert guides ensuring fun and safety for everyone.
Family Upper New Afternoon Express Trip
$99 per Person | 4 Hours | Ages 5+ | Class I/II
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling family adventure on the Upper New River, perfect for ages 5 and up! Experience stunning national park scenery, gentle Class I and II rapids, and personalized guidance from your raft guide. Enjoy swimming and playful moments in the water, making unforgettable memories together in nature.
Bring the Whole Family!
Rates
- Group of 4-12: $99 per person
- Group of 12-24: $80 per person
- Group of 25+: $69.30 per person
This trip is for ages 5+.
Monday-Thursday: Get 20% Off! First Responders: Get 50% Off!
Duration
4 Hours
About
A family-friendly trip for ages 5+ on the beautiful Upper New River through national park scenery. Great trip for kids, time to swim and play in the water. Class I and II rapids. Afternoon trip, no meal provided. Your experienced raft guide will personalize your trip, and private rafts provide the ultimate family or group experience.
You will start the day by checking in at our BaseCamp and meeting your Guide. We will answer any questions 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 basic safety instructions, and treat you to our best jokes - bonus points if you laugh!
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 head slowly down the river, enjoy gurgling ripples and gentle rapids. 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.
A great family experience!
Highlights
- National Park scenery
- Class I/II family-friendly rapids
- Ages 5+
- 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 fitted life jacket
Life jackets are mandatory on the Upper New River and essential for safety, especially for young children.
Bring water shoes or secure sandals
Footwear with good grip protects your feet on slippery rocks and in the raft.
Apply reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure while minimizing environmental impact on the river ecosystem.
Listen carefully to safety briefings
Following your guide’s instructions ensures a smooth, safe, and enjoyable rafting experience for the whole family.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- River otters
History
The New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, flowing since before the Appalachian Mountains formed, a vital artery for early settlers and indigenous peoples.
Conservation
Operators follow strict leave-no-trace principles and local regulations to protect the river’s sensitive ecosystem and water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hico
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable while on the water and dries quickly after swim stops.
summer specific
Wide-brimmed hat
Provides sun protection during the afternoon sun exposure.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky riverbanks and in the raft.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Useful in case of spring showers to keep you dry and warm during the trip.
spring specific