Classic Lower New Rapid Run is a half day whitewater rafting adventure on the Lower New River Gorge.

Trip Description

A Half day of Whitewater Rafting on the Lower New Rapids in a Stable Classic Boat

The Classic Rapid Run trip on the Lower New River is fast becoming one of our most popular adventures. It is a perfect trip for large groups that want to go whitewater rafting together and follow up with another activity. Maybe you’d like to combine a raft trip with one of our other adventures, so check out the horseback riding video, kayaking instruction page, mountain biking video, or rock climbing video. If you are part of a larger group you can schedule an afternoon at ACE's Teambuilding Challenge Course. Maybe 2 to 2-1/2 hours of concentrated fun is your idea of a perfect day. Whatever the reasons, the half-day “Rapid Run” is very, very popular.

The Lower New River boasts 24 Class III to V whitewater rapids…2 before lunch and 22 after lunch. That’s the classic full-day format. With only 2 rapids, the “before lunch” section involves some floating, swimming, playing, rock-jumping, etc. On the Rapid Run, we bypass this section and do the 8 miles and 22 fabulous rapids of the “after lunch” section.

The trip takes between 2 and 2-1/2 hours, depending on the water level. The Lower New River has plenty of current so we don’t have to do a lot of paddling between rapids. We simply keep moving at an easy pace from one crashing rapid to the next. It’s a great way to run the river.

Because there’s no lunch and the logistics are easier, the Rapid Run costs less than our full-day trips. All of the fun for less money…what a concept.

When you make your reservations, you might consider combining a Classic Rapid Run trip with another of our many adventures such as a Sunset Showdon Paintball Battle or just hang out at ACE Lake for the rest of the day. The biggest advantage of choosing ACE is that all our adventures are located right here on our 1,500-acre Adventure Resort. More fun with less driving.

Trip Format

The Lower New Rapid Run in a 16' Classic Raft

The Lower New Rapid Run trip offers the same whitewater rapids as the Classic Lower New trip with the perfect blend of relaxation and exhilaration, but in a half day format. Both beginner and expert rafters enjoy the magnificent New River Gorge scenery, encounters with wildlife, and glimpses of the many thriving towns that once lived along the river. The first half of the trip offers easier class 2 & 3 rapids that allows rafters time to learn to follow guide commands and paddle as a group. Mid-way down river the Lower New starts transitions to exciting Class 3-4 rapids. Upper and Lower Railroad, the Keeneys, Miller's Folly, and Double Z are among the many rapids that lie in wait on lower section of the trip.

Our Classic Whitewater Rafting trips use 16’ rafts that accommodate larger group sizes (8+ guests and one guide). The 16’ boat is the least expensive of our three boat sizes. This trip is good for those that are rafting for the first time and are not sure what to expect.

The Season

The Season for New River Whitewater Rafting

Different seasons provide very diverse river experiences as the dynamics of the river and the rapids themselves are transformed. Spring rafting is a thrill ride with typically higher water levels, making the waves, holes and rapids even more powerful. March - May offers the biggest whitewater of the season, while summer months offer fun, excitement and warmer temperatures. Great whitewater remains a constant in September and October as fall is fabulous in the New River Gorge.

What To Wear

What To Wear And Bring

Spring
Pile, wool, or acrylic sweater
Wool or rubber gloves, ski cap
Nylon windbreaker
NO COTTON!
Towel, dry set of clothes (for after the trip)
Wetsuits and neoprene booties are strongly recommended for spring New River trips. Wetsuits are available for rent at ACE.

Summer
Swimsuit, t-shirt, ball cap
Old sneakers or river shoes
Sunscreen, glasses strap
Light nylon windbreaker
Towel, dry set of clothes (for after the trip)

River Map

Rapids Of The New River