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.

The Traditional Double Lower trip offers two runs in one day on our most popular section of river. Both beginners and experts enjoy the magnificent scenery, encouters with wildlife, and glimpses of the many towns that once thrived along the river. After the first smaller rapid, which allows paddlers time to adjusst and learn some commands from their guide, you will start off with big water as you take on Upper and Lower Railroad, named for the railroad tressel that crosses the river here. This section of the New River offers moderate to difficult rapids as a high volume of water constricts through the narrow gorge. Later on, Jump Rock allows everyone to get out of the raft alongside the river and jump off of an (approx) 15-20 ft rock into the pool below. Take out is under the massive New River Gorge Bridge, the longest single span arch bridge in the northern hemisphere. Once you're finished you do it all over again. Lunch is provided at different spots on the river, depending on the water levels. Double the fun without doubling the cost!

Our Traditional trips use 16' rafts that accommodate larger group sizes (9-10 guests plus the guide). The 16' boat is the most economical boat size. This trip is good for those who would prefer a more moderate stable ride.

• Arrive at ACE, check-in with your Trip Leader and fill out release forms for the trip(s) you are on (anyone under 17 years old must bring a waiver signed by both parents Click Here for Downloads Page ).
• Change into your river wear, a guide will issue a PFD (personal floatation device) and helmet, then load up and head for the river.
• The bus ride to the put-in is approximate 30 minutes to put-in depending on water levels.
• On route, or at put-in, your trip leader and guide deliver a safety talk covering the fundamentals of rafting and proper use of river equipment, and precautions.
• At the put-in the trip leader will then make the guide/guest assignments. There will be a guide in every raft. The guests and guides then go through their introductions. Each guide will then take over with more specific details for the group. Basic strokes, paddling techniques, and guide commands are demonstrated and practiced by the group before heading down river. Guests riding in duckies will be taught how to paddle and maneuver the duck. 
• Enjoy lunch part way down the river. There are no restroom facilities alongside the river.
• At the take-out point, the gear is loaded onto our vehicles and we head back to the put-in for the second run down while enjoying a complimentary beverage.
• At the take-out on the second run, the gear is once more loaded up and we head back to ACE.
• Back at ACE enjoy a hot shower, shop at our Outfitter’s Store, check out our various lake & resort amenities, and dine at our Lakeside Dining Hall or the Lost Paddle Lounge - all located at ACE's 1400 acre Adventure Center. 
  

• Plan Ahead
• • Get your group together EARLY! Spread the word and schedule a planning/preliminary meeting
  • Do your homework. Be familiar with the trips, lodging, and meal options
  • Call to check availability of any trips and lodging you are considering
  • Become familiar with our reservation/cancellation policies and age/height limits
  • Direct participants to the printed material, our website at www.AceRaft.com or give us a call at
    800-SURF-WVA (787-3982).
• Make a Group Plan
  • Decide what trip and time is right for your group
  • Decide on lodging options
  • Decide on meal options
  • Get a head count of all participants - Use the Trip Planner (in the group organizer kit) to gather names and contact information
  • Set a FIRM payment schedule with your participants - Make participants aware of the payment schedule and FOLLOW IT!
  • Use the Trip Planner to keep track of deposits and payments
  • Use the Trip Schedule Calendar (in the group organizer kit) to keep track of when payment are due
• Get Started With ACE
  • Make your reservation
    • Call 800-SURF-WVA (787-3982) and speak with one of our friendly reservationists
  • Collect your deposit money.
    • Due 10 days after the initial reservation is made with ACE
    • If you reservation is made less than 30 days from your arrival/trip date, full payment is due at time reservation is made
  • Review your confirmation and invoice
  • Use your Trip Schedule Calendar to make notes of when and what your group is doing while at ACE
  • Request any waiver forms needed for minors (a copy of each is in the back of the group organizer kit or Click Here for a List of Downloads)
    • All minors not accompanied by a parent or guardian are required to have a waiver form signed by both parents before participating in any activity! NO EXCEPTIONS!)
  • Send your balance payment
  • Due 30 days before before your scheduled trip or arrival date
• Pre-Arrival Planning
  • Get a final head count of all participants
  • Copy material that each may need
  • Get any maps, directions, etc. your participants may need
  • Make sure each participant knows what they have booked and what is included
  • Give them a copy of the packing list (in the group organizer kit or Click Here to Download )
  • Give them the Check-In and Arrival Times