White Water Rafting: The New River

By: Thomas Wyatt

Break Studios Contributing Writer

White water rafting the New River, which runs through much of North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia, is a prime recreation. With plenty of great water, rafters must keep a couple of things in mind when planning an outing on the New. Following are some New River white water rafting tips.

White water rafting the New River:

  1. First, find out the exact waters that you want to raft. The New River is a large and long waterway, and there are plenty of viable rafting locations throughout much of its course. This can be facilitated by proximity. If you live near the river, ask around at sporting goods shops or outdoor outfitters about what parts of the river are best for rafting near your location. However, as there are certain prime rafting areas, it may be necessary to travel some to get to the best waters, as many of the best parts of the New for rafting are in West Virginia.
  2. Next, be sure that you will be able to raft efficiently. Make sure you know how to handle the craft, and that you have the right equipment. Extra oars, life jackets for everyone coming, helmets, and food and drink (and camping supplies if planning overnight stays on the river) should all be brought along in accordance with their purpose.
  3. Make sure that everything is technically set. If necessary, get any permits for camping on the river, and be sure that there are no restrictions or limitations on rafting in the area you plan to go. Keep an eye on the forecast as well, and if necessary, adjust the time of your trip. If everything is set right, hit the water, and have a great time.

Planning a rafting on the New River simply requires you to know where you are going, have the right equipment, and take care of any issues regarding your trip on the water. Once that is all done, have a great time on the water!

Posted on: Jun. 15, 2010