The New River, a.k.a. "The Grand Canyon of the East,” is a beautiful place to vacation during the summer months and enjoy some great waves and excitement. Rich with history, the New River is the oldest river in the world other than the Nile in Egypt! If that’s not enough to tempt you, rafting under the thousand foot cliffs and blue sky above ought to seal the deal. The river also passes haunted coal tipple stations and ghost towns a century old from a coal rush. There also are blooming rhododendrons along the river and great blue herons and red-tailed hawks to be sighted along the whole ride so what are you waiting for?!

There are three segments to The New River: The Lower, Upper, and Middle. The Lower is the most popular with class III to V rapids. Some rapids include the Surprise, Keeney Brothers, Double Z, and Greyhound Bus Stopper. The Upper segment has class I to III rapids and has lots of pools to float through and swim in. The Middle segment has class I to III rapids but only duckies (a kind of inflatable kayak/raft) tour this part.

The rapid classes and the age requirements vary on the different segments: the Lower requires ages ten and older, the Upper ages five and older, and the Middle has no requirement. Be sure to double check with your guide company ahead of time about the age restrictions because they can also vary depending on how high the water is for the day you are going. The New River has a great range of rapids and experiences fit for the whole family or thrill seeker so come and discover for yourself the adventure it has to offer.

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