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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including young children comfortable in water.
Wildlife
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.
West Virginia Adventures
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.
West Virginia Adventures operates guided rafting experiences on the Gauley River and the New River Gorge, offering day trips, afternoon express runs, private trips, and family-focused adventures. The outfitter specializes in a variety of river trips: extreme whitewater on the Gauley (Class IV/V) including the Gauley Marathon and Sweets Falls, full- and half-day Lower Gauley excursions, family Upper New River trips with gentle Class I/II rapids, and private custom rafting for groups of six or more. Trips include expert guides, on-river safety briefings, and catered lunches on many departures. Age minimums and trip types are clearly defined to match ability and comfort—family trips welcome children ages five and up, while more challenging Gauley runs require older participants. Private group options allow customization of itinerary, pace, and dining, creating a less crowded river experience for families, friends, and corporate outings. West Virginia Adventures emphasizes local river knowledge, experienced raft guides, and scenic routes through the New River Gorge National Park. The company’s offerings cover off-season custom adventures as well as peak-season day trips, balancing adrenaline, scenic enjoyment, and accessible family options. Clear booking details, catered meal choices, and group accommodations make planning straightforward for multi-generational groups. For visitors seeking authentic Appalachian river adventures—whether a gentle family float or a full-throttle Gauley descent—West Virginia Adventures provides guided trips that focus on safety, scenery, and memorable river experiences.
Rivers Served
Gauley & New
Two major West Virginia rivers
Group Options
Private trips 6+
Custom itineraries for groups
Trip Types
Half- & Full-day
Afternoon express to all-day
Family Friendly
Ages 5+
Trips suitable for young kids
Book now for family floats, private group trips (6+), or extreme Gauley days with catered lunch.
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.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable while on the water and dries quickly after swim stops.
summer
Wide-brimmed hat
Provides sun protection during the afternoon sun exposure.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky riverbanks and in the raft.
summer
Light rain jacket
Useful in case of spring showers to keep you dry and warm during the trip.
spring