Is this rafting trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Lower New River features gentle rapids perfect for first-time rafters, and guides provide comprehensive safety instructions.

What should I wear on the trip?

Wear quick-drying clothes, secure footwear, and bring sun protection for comfort and safety on the water.

Are food and drinks provided?

Typically, the trip includes safety gear and briefing, but you should bring water and snacks if desired; check with the operator for specific offerings.

What is the minimum age requirement?

Participants usually need to be at least 8 years old, but check with the provider for specific age and weight restrictions.

Are photos available after the trip?

Yes, many outfitters offer professional photos or videos—be sure to ask about options when booking.

Do I need to know how to swim?

While swimming ability is helpful, guides are trained to ensure safety, and life jackets are provided for all participants.

Lower New River • Half Day | Rafting in Lansing, West Virginia

Adventure Brief

Discover the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Lower New River in West Virginia. Perfect for a half-day adventure, this trip combines exciting rapids with stunning scenery and expert guidance. Keep reading to learn more about this memorable outdoor experience.

2–3 hours

easy

From $126.56

Embark on an exciting half-day rafting adventure down the Lower New River with New & Gauley River Adventures in Lansing, West Virginia. This guided trip offers a perfect blend of thrill and scenic beauty, making it ideal for those seeking an accessible yet memorable outdoor experience. As you paddle through exhilarating rapids and calm stretches, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains and lush riverbanks. The Lower New River is known for its warm waters and gentle grade, providing a fun introduction for beginners and families, while still offering enough excitement for seasoned paddlers. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into the area's rich history, local wildlife, and conservation efforts. Whether you're looking to escape the city for a half-day of adventure or reconnect with nature, this trip delivers an unforgettable outdoor outing on West Virginia’s iconic river. End your adventure feeling energized, refreshed, and inspired by the rugged beauty that makes this location so special.

About New & Gauley River Adventures

New & Gauley River Adventures is a full-service outdoor outfitter based in southern West Virginia that organizes whitewater rafting, horseback trail rides, overnight lodging, and primitive camping along the Gauley and New rivers. The operator runs a wide range of trips—from family-friendly Upper New River floats and half‑day Lower New River runs to adrenaline-fueled Upper Gauley Class V excursions including Double Upper options and the Full Gauley Marathon. Multi-day options include two‑day Upper Gauley expeditions and New River full canyon overnight trips. Lodging choices at base camp range from cozy Base Camp Cabins and Riverside Cottage in historic Thurmond to wilderness cabin and fire tower overnight stays, plus campsite reservations at Meadow River. Additional seasonal offerings include sleigh and carriage rides and guided trail rides for riders of all skill levels. Safety and local river knowledge are central: the outfitter operates on scheduled dam‑released Lower Gauley flows and runs established Class I–V routes on the New and Gauley rivers. Equipment and trip formats are tailored to skill level and group composition, with day and half‑day options for families, youth groups, and seasoned rafters. The business’s long presence in the region, varied trip roster, and combination of lodging and river-based adventures make it an efficient one-stop experience for visitors seeking convenience, reliability, and authentic Appalachian river trips. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the operation emphasizes memorable, professionally run river and trail experiences. Repeat guests praise attentive communication, customizable itineraries, and a local commitment to safety, conservation, and guest comfort every season.