Rafting in West Virginia

The World's Best Whitewater.
This Is That Place.

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The Better Family Vacation.
This Is That Place.

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This Is That Place

You've Found The New River Gorge

And this is more than a website.

It’s a map to your time off. The New River Gorge is a place for families. For groups. For couples. There's adventure to be found here. Relaxation, too. You've found an outdoor playground.

So read all of the sections. Call up and ask questions. Plan your trip to the New River Gorge. Chat with us. But above all, come here and visit. Because this is that place.

The World's Best Whitewater

There was a time in your life when adventure meant something.

You know, back before commitment and responsibility took over? Weekends made up a vital part of your existence. Vacations were the stuff of legend. That feeling still exists in the New River Gorge, on the world’s best whitewater rafting. Come find it.

The Bridge

Around here, it's known as the big bridge. It was the biggest arch bridge in the world at one time. We still celebrate it that way.

It's the center of the vacation compass around here, also known as the New River Gorge Bridge. So go climb next to it. Paddle under it. Enjoy one of the trails near it. Walk through it! (That one's new.) When you see it, you'll know- it is something to celebrate.

Stay

Here's what makes or breaks a vacation: lodging. We can help you find the perfect place for you. A secluded cabin in the forest. A Bed and Breakfast with a big front porch. A hotel within walking walking distance to town. Make your stay as important as your adventure. Do your lodging up right.

Eat

The New River Gorge has as many choices for dining in and dining out as there are appetites. From gourmet meals to simple fair, from on-the-go eats to slow roasted wild game barbecue, you can find plenty of good eating for everyone here in the gorge. Theis is the place to let your vacation eat, drink, and be merry!

Events

Bridge Day is West Virginia's largest one day festival. The reason? It's also the world's largest extreme sports festival. And watching people rappel and BASE jump of of one of the largest bridges in the world is a very big experience. And with the lure of whitewater rafting continually calling, there's never a shortage of things happening around the New River Gorge.

What To Know Before You Hit the Trails on Horseback

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It’s the old Western cliche: to ride off into the sunset on a noble, galloping steed.

Riding Horses

Horses await riders to head out on the trails

This scene gets used over and over again. It is freedom. The cowboy sits atop a wild animal, taking off into the wilderness to who-knows-where.

In many cultures, the swift dash of an unbridled horse represents a free spirit. As they pound their hooves against the dirt, kicking it up behind them, their powerful muscles whisk them, and us, away from reality for just a moment. For that moment, you are going just to go, and nothing else matters.

And a horse doesn’t have to be galloping full-speed to ignite wonder in a rider. A simple trail trot atop a horse can make you feel attuned to the nature around you, until you lose yourself in it for a minute.

Thinking about hitting the trail? The New River Gorge has tons of stables full of sweet steeds chomping at the bit to nuzzle you and invite you aboard.

Here’s what you need to know before you go:

Get a Guide

Find an experienced guide to take you out, even if you’re an expert rider. (They’ll know the best trails with scenic views of the Gorge.)

Opt for a Sunset Ride

Not only can you live the movie scene, you’ll also get a beautiful view you’ll never forget! Get really in touch with nature enjoying the evening colors fade to dark and the stars dot the sky alongside your companion animal.

Get to Know Your Horse

Listen to any particular instructions about your horse. Each one has its own personality, and you’ll get to know each other along the ride. But your guide will be able to help you start the friendship off on the right foot with tips about what your horse likes or doesn’t like. Feel free to ask questions!

Dress Appropriately

Wear long pants, boots or close-toed shoes and clothing that will be comfortable to move in (and that will stay put while you ride.)

Soothe Your Steed

Horses can be skittish. Speak in a calm, low voice, and try not to spook your horse with sudden movements and sounds, or your own nervousness.

Now you’re ready to hop in the saddle (or at least to start learning about safety from your riding guide!)

What are you looking forward to about your horseback riding adventure?

Read more about What To Know Before You Hit the Trails on Horseback

Using Your Time Off For Getting Work Done Is Dumb

The New River Gorge. This Is That Place.