Half-Day Lower New River: Rapid Run

Want to pack in two activities on the same day? Short on time? Visiting our area for a quick trip? Then this Lower New River Rapid Run half day rafting adventure is the trip for you! Actual time on the river may vary, but the trip takes roughly 2-3.5 hours. (Just keep in mind that the actual trip length can vary based on water height and other factors, so don’t plan on packing too much into a short time period!)

Our Lower New River Rapid Run, AKA our half day Lower New River Run is a shorter version of our most popular full-day trip, the Full Day Lower New Trip.

Who’s It For?

This half-day New River Gorge rapids trip is designed for those who want to experience all the excitement of the Lower New River but with less time on the water. This half-day trip is eight miles long, runs through 17 rapids ranging from Class II-V, and is focused on the whitewater rafting adventure. 

You won’t stop for lunch or to jump off Jump Rock, but you will experience all of the rapids, scenery, and history that make the New River Gorge such a special place. If you’re looking for a longer rafting adventure try our Full Day Lower New River Rafting Trip.

What’s Involved?

All of the adventure in half the time! Here’s what the lineup looks like for the half-day Lower New River Gorge rapids adventure:

• No need to commit your entire day! The trip can last anywhere from two to three and a half hours. 
• The Lower New River rapids classes range from II – V, this means you have an excellent range of river rapids to explore even on the half-day tour. 
• If the variety of rapids classes in the Lower New River isn’t suited to your experience level, you can explore our 15+ total rafting trip options, which take you on a journey of either the upper or lower parts of the New River & Gauley River, each of which offers different class level options.

A half-day trip with this many rapids and a variety of efforts means you are in for a fully packed adventure. You will likely spend the remainder of your afternoon talking about the beauty you witnessed and the fun that you experienced.

Cruise Through History

The rapid New River run winds its way through the New River Gorge, where, over millions of years, it carved and cut its way through the canyon, forming The Gorge that we love today.

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but nothing prepares you for the majesty and awe of the New River. Experience it for yourself, and you’ll be singing “Almost Heaven, West Virginia” all day long… Here’s why.

Large boulders are found throughout the river, with sheer cliffs near the top of the ~1,000-foot canyon. It isn’t hard to imagine how ancient this waterway is when you’re immersed in its scenery. Iconic views of Endless Wall and the New River Gorge Bridge will be visible from this section of the river.

And even though your whitewater rafting adventure is a half-day, witnessing scenery like this feels timeless. It will make you appreciate the surroundings, and leave you craving more scenic outdoor adventures.

But the history of the Lower New River Gorge is not limited to natural geography alone. You’ll also learn about some of the history of the region throughout your trip. For example, during the late 1800s to early 1900s, the New River Gorge was home to dozens of prosperous coal mines. The ruins of these early towns can still be seen during your river trip.

Stories like these others will populate your New River rapid run, and make you appreciate the area even more.

What To Do After Your Quick Rafting Trip?

This trip is ideal for those looking to go whitewater rafting on the New River Gorge rapids, and fit in other adventures on the same day. After all, there are plenty more activities to do at the Gorge. From canopy tours to hiking to ziplining to the famous Bridge Walk, our guides at Adventures on the Gorge have plenty of exciting tours for you to do. 

Or, ya know, maybe relax and take advantage of the resort after your half day run! You’ll have plenty of time left to hang out by the pool for some sunshine and relaxation. After a morning of whitewater rafting the Lower New River rapids, we think you deserve it! 

Make sure to check out some of our delicious dining options while you’re visiting! After all, there is nothing quite as rewarding as the perfect meal to top off the perfect day of adventure.

Book your Whitewater Rafting Adventure Today!