Riding the Rapids

The thrill and legacy of whitewater rafting in West Virginia.

This story was originally published in the June 2025 issue of Wonderful West Virginia. To subscribe, visit wonderfulwv.com.

Written by Mason Jack
Photographed by West Virginia Department of Commerce

West Virginia is home to some of the most scenic and exhilarating whitewater rafting experiences in the United States. From the roaring, adrenaline-charged rapids of the Gauley River to the more relaxed, family-friendly stretches of the New River, rafting is more than just a popular outdoor activity—it is woven into the fabric of the state’s identity. For generations, it has shaped local populations, stimulated the economy, and preserved the natural beauty of the state.

Rafting heritage in West Virginia is one of adventure, perseverance, and a deep respect for the water and land. Whether you’re an advanced paddler seeking the heart-pounding thrill of class V rapids or a beginner searching for a milder but scenic outing, the rivers in West Virginia promise unforgettable adventure.

A Brief History

The New River is famously one of the oldest rivers in the world: about 360 million years young. Flowing north—an unusual characteristic for Northern Hemisphere rivers—it slices through the breathtaking New River Gorge, the deepest gorge in the Appalachian Mountains, at about 900 feet. This beautiful, unbridled terrain, with dynamic water levels, is a natural place for adventure, and by the middle of the 20th century, thrill-seekers had discovered its untamed rapids.

Whitewater rafting in West Virginia as we know it today took shape in the mid-1960s when college students and outdoor enthusiasts began navigating the New River in surplus military rafts. In 1968, Jon Dragan and his brothers founded Wildwater Expeditions Unlimited, the state’s first commercial rafting company. Mountain River Tours followed a year later and other outfitters soon after, turning the area’s potential for adventure tourism into a booming industry.

As commercial rafting grew, it expanded beyond the New River to other wild waterways. The Cheat River, known for its steep gradient and unpredictable spring flows, gained popularity, offering rafters a remote and thrilling experience. The Shenandoah was a reliable class II–III family paddle, and, though lesser known, the Tygart River became a favorite for those seeking technical rapids and a more secluded adventure. But the New River was always the top destination.

The completion of the New River Gorge Bridge in 1977 vastly improved access to the area. At the time of its construction, it was the longest single-arch bridge in the world, and today it remains the longest in the Western Hemisphere. The iconic bridge became a symbol of the region’s connection to outdoor adventure, and 1980 saw the first annual Bridge Day event, where base jumpers leap from the structure in one of the world’s premier extreme sports gatherings.

Rafting in the state started to garner international attention in the mid-1980s, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began doing six weeks of controlled releases into the Gauley River from the Summersville Dam each fall, creating some of the best whitewater conditions in the world. On top of that, it could be planned around, because it’s not dependent on weather—a bucket-list event for expert paddlers worldwide that has come to be known as Gauley Season.

West Virginia’s status as one of the premier whitewater destinations in the world was secure and, by the early 1990s, as many as 250,000 people were rafting in West Virginia annually, according to reports compiled each year by the WVDNR. More than 30 companies operated trips catering to visitors looking to tackle the Lower New River’s exhilarating class II–IV+ rapids, the Upper New River’s and Shenandoah’s beginner-friendly class I–III waters, and the Cheat and Gauley rivers’ high-adrenaline runs.

That period was the industry’s peak in the state, and it had to evolve. In the early 2000s, some outfitters closed, and others merged and diversified their offerings to appeal to a broader spectrum of the outdoor recreation market. However, rafting remains a cornerstone of West Virginia’s outdoor recreation economy. Today, the New River continues to captivate adventurers, with its waters featured among National Geographic’s “20 of the Coolest Travel Adventures for 2024.” Its ever-changing flow—ranging from under 1,000 to over 32,000 cubic feet per second—ensures that no two rafting trips are exactly alike, maintaining its status as a premier whitewater destination.

The Cultural Phenomenon of Rafting

Rafting in West Virginia has always been more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. In its early years, rafting culture was defined by a mix of thrill-seeking, camaraderie, and a hard-partying ethos. Jay Young, author of 2011’s Whitewater Rafting on West Virginia’s New & Gauley Rivers: Come on In, the Water’s Weird, recalls his introduction to the industry. “I had been working as a climbing guide for 18 years, and I definitely had some culture shock changing industries,” he says. While the culture of climbing focused on personal responsibility and creating foundations for growth, the culture of rafting was much more laid-back. “But when stuff went down on a river, those same people were rock solid—there’s nobody I’d rather have by my side. Nowadays, it’s a lot more professional, but whitewater guiding still has a touch of that wild, rebellious edge.”

Over the years, the industry has evolved, with increased emphasis on safety, structured training programs, and environmental stewardship. However, the original spirit of adventure remains. West Virginia’s accessibility has played a significant role in its prominence as a rafting destination. As Young explains, “Rafting became iconic right here for two primary reasons. One, these rivers are within a day’s drive of 60% of the American population. And just as importantly, the pioneers did a fantastic job of crafting an industry while not losing track of who they were.”

The COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly boosted outdoor recreation, bringing a surge in rafting tourism. Young notes, “All of a sudden, that aforementioned 60% of America wanted to get away from people, but they couldn’t fly—so they drove to West Virginia, where we’ve been social distancing since 1863.”

The West Virginia whitewater industry’s impact extends far beyond the rivers, supporting hotels, restaurants, outfitters, and adventure resorts that thrive on the influx of outdoor enthusiasts. However, the impact of rafting is more than tourism dollars; it has also played a role in conservation and river restoration efforts. As outfitters introduce thousands of visitors to these rivers each year, many have taken on the role of stewards, incorporating conservation education into their trips while ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience. The long-term success of the rafting industry is directly tied to the health of West Virginia’s waterways, ensuring that future generations of paddlers can experience the same thrilling rapids and breathtaking landscapes that have defined the state’s whitewater legacy.

The Best Time to Go and What You Need

While rafting is available year ’round in West Virginia, each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings high water levels and intense rapids due to spring rain, making it an excellent time for thrill-seekers. Summer provides a more relaxed atmosphere, with warm temperatures and lower water levels ideal for families and beginners. For skilled paddlers, fall is the crown jewel of the rafting season, with the legendary class V rapids of Gauley Season. Winter rafting is less common but possible for those who don’t mind braving the cold.

Preparation is crucial for a safe and enjoyable rafting experience. Essential gear includes quick-drying clothing, secure water shoes, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Outfitters provide necessary safety equipment such as helmets, paddles, life vests, and, in cooler months, wetsuits. Rafters should arrive early, eat a nutritious meal, and stay hydrated to ensure peak performance on the water.

Whitewater rafting in West Virginia is more than just an adrenaline rush—it’s an immersive experience in history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, the state’s rivers promise unforgettable adventures. As Jay Young puts it: “You could hang with cool people and do cool stuff.”

To learn more about whitewater rafting opportunities around the state, visit WVtourism.com/whitewater-rafting.