FAQs

General FAQs

How do I plan a trip?

To start planning a trip, take a look at lodging options and adventure options to see what will best suit your group. You’ll first want to make sure lodging is available for your dates, then we will add adventures, meals, etc. You can always call 855-379-8738 to reach an Adventure Specialist to assist with any questions.

What do I need to do before I get there?

Double check your itinerary to make sure everything looks correct with dates and number of people for each adventure. Complete your online waiver before arrival! Anyone participating in activities while at Adventures on the Gorge should have a waiver completed. You may have received an email with links to your waivers. You can also find them here: SIGN YOUR WAIVERS HERE

What do I do when I arrive?

If you are lodging with Adventures on the Gorge, you will want to head to the AOTG Welcome Barn to get your keys. Remember, lodging check-in starts at 4pm. If you are heading straight to your activity, you can check the map here for the closest parking area to your building number listed on your invoice.

What time is lodging check-in? Can I check-in early?

Lodging check-in starts at 4 pm daily. Check out is 10:00 am on your day of departure. In season (May through October) we do not allow early check-ins or late check outs.

We will not be arriving until late at night after the front desk is closed. What do we do?

If you know ahead of time you will be arriving late, give us a call 304-574-4454 and we will assign you a lockbox on the front porch with a code to retrieve your check-in packet on arrival.

What should I bring with me?

This is a great question and varies based on what you will be doing with us here at Adventures on the Gorge. Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing you can move in is a must. You can refer to our packing guide here. If you forget something at home, chances are we have it in our store on-site.

Are there changing/shower facilities?

Yes! We have multiple bathhouses on site that house changing rooms, showers, and restrooms. If you intend to use our on-site facilities, don’t forget your toiletries and a towel when packing.

Is there a store?

There sure is! Two, in fact! There is a store on each side of campus for extra gear, snacks, or a souvenir to take home.

Are there hidden costs?

All prices listed on the website are before taxes/fees, so expect to see those added on the final invoice. All reservations have the option to add Trip Cancellation Protection. If your group is tax exempt, be sure to talk with your reservationist to receive the tax exemption form to be filled out and returned prior to final payment. Be sure to talk to your Adventure Specialist about add-ons like meal packages, wetsuits, videos and photos.

Is there an airport near by?

Yeager International Airport (CRW) is our closest bigger airport, about 70 minutes from Adventures on the Gorge. Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB), 80 minutes from campus is another option. Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW), 40 minutes away would be an option for small planes. Each of these airports offer car rental options you can set up on your own. Adventures on the Gorge offers paid shuttle services to and from the airports but must be added to the reservation in advance.

Can I bring my dog? Are there dog sitting services?

We love our four-legged friends here at Adventures on the Gorge, but please have a plan in place if you are going out on adventures. We offer pet-friendly options in several types of cabins (not available in Glamping Tents, Miles House, Ames House, and Vacation Homes), so make sure to confirm with your Adventure Specialist that you are in the pet-friendly option and that the pet fee is added to your reservation. We do not have dog sitting services on site so plan ahead to make sure your best bud is taken care of while you’re out adventuring.

What is the cancelation policy?

You can read more about the cancelation policy here. All of our trips go out rain or shine. We would only cancel a trip if the weather is deemed unsafe. Very rarely do we cancel a trip, but read our policy to see why we might postpone a trip or reschedule during your stay.

Do you have firewood?

We have firewood available for pick-up at the Adventures on the Gorge Welcome Barn and the Mill Creek Store for $7/bundle. During season (May-Oct) you can call 304-640-7425 for firewood delivery after 4pm. Transporting firewood long distances can spread invasive insect species—please do not bring firewood from home!

Do you have a babysitting service?

Adventures on the Gorge does not offer sitting services. Kids as young as 4 can participate in TimberTrek Adventure Park and as young as 6 can go on the Upper New. All ages are welcome on the New River Jetboats!

Do you have group rates?

If you’re curious if your organized group qualifies for special rates, contact our Group Sales Team and find out!

Do we have to stay at Adventure on the Gorge to do adventures/activities?

We will take anyone on adventures with us whether you’re staying here or not. You will need an adventure reservation in advance.

Resort Amenities?

Adventures on the Gorge features a two-tiered swimming pool right on the rim of America’s newest National Park – Canyon Falls Pool. Adventures on the Gorge also offers a 9-hole disk golf course free to play, a sand volleyball court, cornhole boards spread throughout campus and on-site hiking trails.

Where is Lost and Found located?

The main lost and found is located in the Adventures on he Gorge Welcome Barn, but if you recently misplaced an item, check with the closest building as items are usually turned in there before migrating over to the Welcome Barn.

Can extra guests be added at check in?

We will accommodate additions the best we can, but sometimes trips fill up and we do not have the space to add your extra guests to your trip. It’s best to call in and add your guest to your reservation as soon as you know the adjustment needs to be made.

Is Internet access available?

Adventures on the Gorge has WiFi access across the resort and in the Mountain and Deluxe cabins.

Are laundry facilities available?

There are laundry facilities in the Mill Creek Bathhouse. Also, some Deluxe cabins feature a washer/dryer.

Is there a place to go fishing?

There are no fishing options on-site, but we do offer full-day and half-day fishing adventures. If you plan to fish on your own in the Gorge, you’ll need to purchase a WV Fishing License through WV DNR or at Walmart after arrival. You can purchase a fishing license online, as well.

Is there a golf course nearby?

Bridge Haven is our local 18-hole course with great mountain views!

Is smoking allowed in the cabins?

No. Please do not smoke inside of your cabins and please dispose of your cigarette butts in provided containers throughout campus. Cabins that are smoked in are subject to a $200 cleaning fee. Wouldn’t you rather spend your money on adventures?!?!

Canyon Falls Pool FAQs

When is the pool open?

Canyon Falls Swimming Pool operates Memorial Day to Labor Day with hours at 10am-6pm daily. If there is not an event taking place at the pool, it is very likely the hours will be extended to 8pm daily.

May I bring a cooler in?

No outside food or beverages is allowed at the pool. You can order from Canyon Falls Snack Shack or from our Smokey’s or Chetty’s Pub.

May I reserve the pool for an event?

Yes, the pool can be reserved for private events starting at 7pm daily. * Except Saturdays

Are towels available?

Please bring your own towels. Towels may be available at the pool but depending on pool activity there may be times were towels are in short supply.

Adventure FAQs

Whitewater Rafting FAQs

What whitewater rafting trip should I choose?

Adventures on the Gorge offers a variety of rafting options from the mellow Class I-III Upper New to the Epitome of white water Class V Upper Gauley. To find the trip that’s right for you.

Explore all of our trips here: ALL RAFTING TRIPS

May I raft if I can not swim?

We recommend that you know how to swim. You will be wearing a PFD, Personal Flotation Device, while rafting that will keep you above water, but you should be able to return to the raft if you find yourself in the water. 

How many people are in each raft?

Our standard 16 foot boats carry 8 people plus your guide. If you would like to upgrade to a 6-man (14 ft) or 4-man (12 ft) boat, talk to your Adventure Specialist and we can add that to your reservation.

Will our trip go if it rains or snows?

Yes! We go rain, shine and even snow! If we are facing extreme weather conditions we may call off the trip but we would notify the group leader in advance as much as possible in this situation. Bring your cold weather gear for the snow and make sure you have wetsuits added to your reservation!

May I take photos?

Our friends at White Water Photography are set up riverside to snap photos of your trip so you don’t have to worry about keeping your camera or phone dry while enjoying your rafting trip. You can purchase these photos once you’re back at Adventures on the Gorge by visiting their kiosk or head here to purchase them online.

Will our trip be videoed?

While our video boaters work hard to cover every trip, you can guarantee a trip video by prepaying for your rafting video. Prepaying automatically puts your trip as top priority for coverage.

May I take a GoPro?

Sure! We have a few helmets in the helmet bin with GoPro mounts on them, but be prepared to set up your own if they’re already snagged by prior trips. Bring a string so you can connect your GoPro to your helmet in case it gets knocked off. Bring at your own risk – Adventures on the Gorge is not responsible for lost action cameras.

Do you have a place to store medications while on the river?

We do. Please make sure to bring any pertinent medications with you on the trip – like epinephrine, inhalers, heart medications or insulin. Communicate with your Trip Leader at trip check-in.

May I request a guide?

Yes you can. We encourage guide requests! Guide requests must be made at the time of your reservation. Keep in mind your group might not be the only one requesting a specific guide.

Where do I put my change of clothes?

Use your car like a locker or leave them in your cabin – this includes towels too. Once off the river, your trip will load back up on the bus and head back to base where you can shower and get changed.

Will I get wet?

Yes, you will get wet. Will you swim? That depends on how well you and your boat can paddle.

May I just hold on or sit in the middle of the raft?

No – rafting is a participation sport. When we give you your gear before loading up on the bus you will get a helmet, a PFD and a paddle – also known as a participation stick – and we expect you to use it throughout the day.

What should I wear rafting?

Let’s start with summer/warm weather months. Wear comfortable, water wicking materials that are easy to move in, shoes that stay on your feet (like sport sandals or an old pair of tennis shoes), and sunscreen! Cotton retains water, so it’s best to avoid if at all possible. For colder weather, you may want to add layers made from polypro and for even colder weather, we do have wetsuits and splash jackets for rent. Click here to see how to dress for different types of weather.

May I bring a cooler (beer/alcohol) on my trip?

No. We will provide you with a beverage on the bus on the way back to base and you’re welcome to hit one of our bars once you’re back at Adventures on the Gorge.

Are PFDs, helmets and paddles provided?

Yes! You will go through the gear room right before loading up on the bus where you’ll get a helmet, a PFD (Personal Floatation Device) and a paddle. We do not allow you to wear your own PFD on a commercial trip.

May I post our trip video or photos on social media?

Absolutely! We love it when you share and tag us! Watch for contest and giveaways on our social media outlets as well!

Is there a guide in each raft?

For trips going out in rafts – YES! For inflatable kayak trips, guides are dispersed throughout the group.

How experienced are the guides?

All river guides must meet the requirements set forth by the West Virginia DNR, complete extensive Adventures on the Gorge River Training and check-out under training guides before guiding their own raft. We have guides that have been taking groups on the New and Gauley Rivers for over 35 years.

What is the alcohol and substance abuse policy on the river?

Zero tolerance. Adventures on the Gorge reserves the right to deny your participation in an activity if they suspect you are under the influence.

Will we have lunch on the river?

Lunches are provided on full day trips. If you have any dietary restrictions, let us know at the time of the reservation so we can make notes for the lunch kitchen.

What do the different river classifications mean?

Class I – Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. Risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.

Class II – Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed. Rapids that are at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class II+”.

Class III – Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open boat. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers. scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class III-” or “Class III+” respectively.

Class IV – Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require “must” moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting may be necessary the first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential but requires practiced skills. A strong eskimo roll is highly recommended. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class IV-” or “Class IV+” respectively.

Class V – Extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to added risk. Drops may contain** large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent, or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is recommended but may be difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is often difficult even for experts. A very reliable eskimo roll, proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced rescue skills are essential. Because of the large range of difficulty that exists beyond Class IV, Class 5 is an open-ended, multiple-level scale designated by Class 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, etc… each of these levels is an order of magnitude more difficult than the last. Example: increasing difficulty from Class 5.0 to Class 5.1 is a similar order of magnitude as increasing from Class IV to Class 5.0.

Class VI – These runs have almost never been attempted and often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking all precautions. After a Class VI rapids has been run many times, its rating may be changed to an appropriate Class 5.x rating.

Are your trips guided?

All of our trips are guided trips, however, that can look different based on the activity. For rafting on the Lower New or Gauley, there is a guide in each boat. For an activity like paintball, your guide acts more as a referee and facilitator. For TimberTrek Adventure Park, there is a guide that will take you through Ground School then multiple guides around course available to assist if needed.

Should I wait to reserve/book adventures?

Our adventures have a limited amount of spots per trip time each day. You could always chance waiting to book, but it’s best to make your reservations in advance so we can have all the logistics in place and guarantee you get to do what you want.

May I reserve/book adventures on site?

You can always check to see what availability is for trips on site, but it’s a big risk to travel this far and not be able to do the adventures you intended to do. Day-of-booking slots would be on a first-come first-serve basis if there is anything open at all.

Where do I go for each adventure?

Your Adventures on the Gorge invoice lists the check-in building number for each adventure. Meeting destinations are also listed on individual adventure page FAQs.

What if I am late for my trip?

We don’t want you to miss out on your adventure, however, we aren’t going to hold the rest of the group back to wait on you. If you know you’re going to be late for your trip, give us a call and we will see if we can rebook you on a later trip. If there are no options for the same activity, we would offer you what is available that day. There will be no refunds the day of the trip.

What should I wear?

How to dress all depends on what activity you’re doing! Check out this “What to wear by activity” list.

Do you have lockers?

We do not have lockers and suggest you leave anything you can’t afford to live without (phone, wallet, credit card, jewelry, etc.) in your car or cabin. A often used phrase around campus is “use your car as your locker”. We do provide key buckets prior to activities. Trip Leaders collect keys and keep them safe, dry and under lock while you are out adventuring.

What if I am pregnant?

Congrats! We will take you rafting, but only on tamer sections of whitewater during early stages of pregnancy and with doctor’s consent. This applies to many adventures, except for ziplining, which is a no go if you’re pregnant. We look forward to seeing you in 9 months!

What if I have special needs or a disability? May I still participate?

Here at Adventures on the Gorge, we want everyone to experience the outdoors. We have taken many individuals with special needs or disabilities down the river, ziplining and more. For us to be able to make this experience great for you, we need to discuss your needs with the activity managers in advance of your trip date.

May I bring/use my own gear?

Adventures on the Gorge provides all necessary equipment for all adventures, and for most safety related equipment, there is no exception to using our approved gear, such as Whitewater PFDs and climbing/ziplining harnesses. However, if it’s something like rock climbing shoes, or a bike helmet, sure! Your guide will inspect and must approve any gear not provided by AOTG prior to use.

Where do I put my phone during my trip?

If you decide to bring your phone with you on any adventure, it is of your own free will and Adventures on the Gorge holds no responsibility. If you’re going on the water, make sure you can keep it dry. If you’re going ziplining, leash it and make sure you turned on “Find My Phone” because if you drop it, you’ll appreciate that when you set out in the woods to find it on your own.

What are 3rd party adventures?

Third party adventures are activities we do not own and are scheduled through our adventure partners like Bridge Walk, Escape-A-Torium, Lost World Caverns and Montgomery Outdoor Adventures (horseback riding). Third party adventures are not charged for nor covered by TCP (Trip Cancellation Protection). Rather subject to that business owners cancellation policy. Most third party activities require a minimum of 30 days prior to cancel a trip, and there may be fees involved.

What is the minimum age for adventures?

All Ages Welcome: New River Jetboats

Minimum Age 4: Timber Trek Adventure Park

Minimum Age 6: Upper New Whitewater Rafting, Upper New Overnight Rafting Trips, and Tour The Gorge

Minimum Age 8: Summersville Lake Tour, Horseback Trail Rides, Bridge Walk, Glade Creek Whitewater Rafting and Hiking, Fishing, Rock Climbing and Rappelling

Minimum Age 10: Paintball, Laser Tag, Whitewater Kayak (1/2 day), Flatwater Kayak (3 hour), SUP, Mountain Biking, Family Lower New Whitewater Rafting (water level dependent), TreeTops Zipline Canopy Tour (if 90 pounds)

Minimum Age 12: Lower New Whitewater Rafting, Lower Gauley Whitewater Rafting, Lower New Overnights, Escape-A-Torium, Gravity Ziplines (if 100 pounds)

Minimum Age 15: Spring/Summer Gauley Whitewater Rafting, Upper Gauley Whitewater Rafting

Minimum Age 16: Upper Gauley Extreme Trips and Overnights

Minimum Age 18: Fall Cast and Blast

Lodging Specific FAQs

If my cabin has a kitchen, is it stocked?

Your cabin is stocked with basic pots and pans, plates, cups, bowls, and silverware.

If my cabin has a kitchenette, what is included?

Microwave, coffee pot, mini refrigerator is included. You will want to bring your own plates, cups, mugs, silverware, and if you have a specific coffee you’ll want each morning, pack that too or you can hit Java Falls for your caffeine needs!

Does my cabin include linens?

This depends on your cabin style. Make sure to look up the specific style cabin you are in to see what’s included. Deluxe and Mountain style cabins include sheets and towels. Rustic cabins and camping, you will want to bring your own. Linens are available to rent.

Can I cook at my cabin or campsite?

Sure! The campsites and rustic cabins have a fold over grate on the fire rings for cooking, but feel free to bring camp stoves or you can rent a grill from Adventures on the Gorge If you forget your tin foil, spices, or propane for the stove, we have you covered at the Mill Creek Store. The Deluxe cabins have a charcoal pedestal grill and also feature indoor kitchens.

Is there an RV dump station on site?

Yes, Adventures on the Gorge provides a dump station.

How wide are RV sites?

Our RV sites are approximately 12 feet wide.

Lock yourself out of your cabin?

You can head to the front desk to get a new key made, or give us a call at 304-640-7425 and the night manager can head your way.

What is the covered tent platform and how big is it?

The covered tent platform is a wooden platform with a roof. You set your own tent up on the platform or rent one from us (call ahead to insure availability). The platforms are 12’ X 16’. The maximum number of people per covered tent platform is 4.

Group Specific FAQs

Does Adventures on the Gorge have the ability to host a conference?

We can host all kinds of events between the Lookout Post and Smokey’s, including conferences.

Are there black out dates for conferences?

Booking Sunday-Thursday dates are ideal and have a lot more options than weekend dates May through October. For larger conferences/gatherings, November through April is much more flexible for weekends.

If my company books a meeting, do we have to do adventures?

During season (May-October), we highly encourage groups to participate in adventures during your meeting. After all, you’re here to make your team stronger, right? We are limited in our adventures offerings November through April, but we always encourage guests to get out on the hiking trails or participate in the winter adventures available.

Do you offer custom shirts for groups?

Yes! Our retail store can help guide you through the process of customizing your group t-shirts and have them ready for you all on arrival. Custom shirts must be pre-ordered.

May I order gifts for my group?

You sure can! If you are considering gifting your attendees with Adventures on the Gorge specific gifts, we can get you in touch with the retail store to show you your options, ideas for customization and completing your order in time for items to be delivered by your trip date.

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Please Note...

Due to high traffic volume online booking is currently running slow. For booking help call (855) 379-8738 or see our Trip Planner.