• Rafting
  • The Dries Whitewater Rafting

Overview

A Unique Rafting Experience

  • Ages 15+
  • Full Day trip (4-6 hours)
  • Prices start at $149

Downstream of the New River Gorge Bridge and past Hawk’s Nest State Park, a hydroelectric dam guards the river. On select days during the summer, water is released from this dam. allowing us to raft on this section of the river that is not often rafted commercially.

Here, you’ll travel on the ancient New River, past gigantic boulders, and sheer sandstone cliffs. The rapids are tight and technical and FUN. What sets this trip apart is the secluded beauty you will experience on the river. This is a great trip for beginner rafters and seasoned professionals alike. This is a full day trip that includes lunch.

This trip is based entirely on scheduled releases, which makes it very limited.

2024 New River Dries Release Dates:

  • March 23-24
  • June 29-30
  • July 6-7
  • July 13-14
  • July 20

Book Your Rafting Adventure!

Talk to a reservation specialist.

Resources

No data was found

FAQ

About the River

Dense boulder gardens and towering cliffs at the water’s edge make rapids on the New River Dries technical and continuous. Water levels change dramatically throughout the season, which means we might see channelized boulder dodging, giant waves, and holes, or anything in between.

How to Dress for Rafting

What’s Included

Transportation is covered from the resort to the river and back again. We’ll also provide all your rafting equipment (helmet, personal flotation device or PFD, paddle, and boat) and a complimentary beverage.

What to Bring

Bring any medication you need throughout the day, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a change of clothes to keep at the resort to change into after your trip. Guides carry small, waterproof bags to stow necessary medications. Depending on the time of year and the weather, you may also want a synthetic layer. If necessary, wetsuits and splash jackets are available for rent. Call us to book those, too.

Trip Time

This is a Full Day Trip.
Depending on the day’s water level, you’ll spend between 4-6 hours on the water, plus shuttle time to and from the river. Trip length and intensity vary based on water levels, which change throughout the season.

Your Boat & Guide

Our standard, 16-foot rafts comfortably seat eight rafters and one river guide.  Your river guide sits in the back of the raft, where they’ll give instructions for when and how to paddle through each rapid and share their expertise about our rivers and region. Learn more about our guides.

Requirements and Limits

The minimum age for this trip is 15 years old. Our PFDs have a maximum chest capacity of 56 inches. All adventurers on the trip should be able to swim.

Group Reservations

Custom quotes are available for groups of over 15. Call us to learn more!

Safety

Our trip leaders and river guides will talk through specific guidelines and requirements on site before you head for the water.

Newsletter Signup
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.