New River Gorge National Park is a playground for anyone who loves outdoor activities, offering a combination of rugged river rides, soaring ziplines, and fun-filled water parks. Its dramatic scenery and diverse terrain make it an ideal place for active travelers wanting to get their adrenaline fix. We especially love the whitewater rafting trips — the thrill of navigating Class III to IV+ rapids, combined with stunning views and the chance to jump from Jump Rock, makes for an unforgettable experience. The zipline adventure in Oak Hill offers a different kind of excitement, with dizzying heights and sky bridges, perfect for those who want to soar over the gorge. And for families or those just wanting to relax, the water park provides a full day of splashes and slides.
If you’re trying to decide what to include in your visit, it helps to know the options. From heart-pumping river trips to scenic zipline tours and kid-friendly water parks, New River Gorge has something for every type of traveler. Let’s look at the top tours, so you can pick the one that suits your style and energy level.
1. New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting – Lower New Half Day
At number 1 on our list is the Lower New Half Day Whitewater Rafting tour, which is perfect if you want a taste of the water’s thrill without a full day commitment. For around $132 per person, you get about 4 hours on the river, guided by professionals who know exactly where to find the best rapids. This trip takes you through Class III to IV+ rapids, ensuring enough excitement to get your heart pounding but manageable enough for most beginners with a little courage.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of adventure and scenery. You’ll paddle through the stunning New River Gorge, with plenty of opportunities to swim through calmer rapids or jump from Jump Rock — a favorite for many. The guide’s expertise guarantees safety while letting you enjoy the adrenaline rush of navigating the powerful white waters. It’s a great pick for those short on time but eager to experience the river’s best.
Bottom Line: This half-day tour offers a fantastic introduction to whitewater rafting, combining thrill, scenic beauty, and the chance to jump into the river. Ideal for families or travelers with limited time who still want a memorable adventure.
2. Oak Hill: Zipline Tour in New River Gorge National Park
Number 2 is the Oak Hill Zipline Tour, which is a perfect choice if aerial views and a bit of thrill are your priority. Priced at $111 per person and lasting about 3.5 hours, this tour takes you across nine ziplines and two sky bridges, with heights ranging from 150 to 750 feet. This isn’t just about zipping; it’s about soaring over the gorge, with spectacular views of the river and surrounding landscape.
What sets this experience apart is the variety of features, including a drop tower for free-fall adrenaline, swinging bridges, and gravity brakes that eliminate the need for gloves touching the cable. The tour guides are skilled at making sure everyone feels safe while pushing the thrill factor. If you’re competitive, you can race friends on duel zips or just soak in the scenery from dizzying heights. The tour includes scenic overlooks at each launch point, providing perfect photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: This zipline tour offers a high-energy, visually stunning experience, great for adventure seekers and anyone wanting a bird’s-eye view of the gorge. It’s a great way to combine nature with excitement.
3. New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting – Lower New Full Day
At number 3 is the Full-Day Whitewater Rafting trip, which extends your river adventure to about 7 hours. For $154 per person, this guided tour not only includes all the excitement of navigating Class IV+ rapids but also features a riverside lunch — a real treat in the middle of a day packed with action.
This full-day trip is for those who want a more immersive experience, exploring more of the New River Gorge and its wilderness. The guide’s experience ensures a safe yet exhilarating ride, with the chance to surf waves and jump from rocks into the river. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with a deeper appreciation of the landscape, all while enjoying a relaxed lunch beside the river. Guests have noted the trip’s value, especially with the included lunch, making it more than just a rush of water.
If you’re after a comprehensive river experience with enough time to soak up the scenery, this is your best choice. It’s especially good for those with some rafting experience or confident beginners ready for a full day of adventure.
Bottom Line: This full-day rafting trip offers more adrenaline and scenery, with a relaxed lunch break included. It’s perfect for those wanting a complete river experience.
4. Oak Hill: New River Gorge Water Park Full-Day Pass
Number 4 on the list is the Water Park Full-Day Pass, ideal for families or travelers looking for a more relaxed day of fun. For just $35, you get access to Ace Adventure Waterpark, which offers 50 inflatable toys, two 40-foot water slides, and zip lines. The park also features a sandy beach area for lounging and inflatable obstacles for more active play.
Though it’s not the adrenaline-pumping choice, the water park provides a full day of entertainment, especially for kids and those who want to combine water fun with some downtime. The slides and inflatables are great for all ages, and the setting on the white sand beach makes it easy to relax in between splashes. The park is well-reviewed for its variety of activities and family-friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: This water park pass is a budget-friendly way to enjoy a day of water-based fun in the gorge, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a less intense experience.
$35 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. If you’re after a quick, thrilling introduction to whitewater, the Half-Day Rafting is ideal. For a scenic aerial adventure, the Zipline Tour offers spectacular views and a dose of adrenaline. For a full day of river action, the Full-Day Rafting delivers more waves and a leisurely riverside lunch. Lastly, if your focus is on family fun or relaxing water play, the Water Park offers a budget-friendly, all-day splash-fest.
Book early, especially for popular tours during peak season, and consider your physical comfort level. Rafting and ziplining require a reasonable level of fitness, but the experiences are suitable for most adventurous spirits. Water parks are perfect for a laid-back day, with minimal prep needed.
Final Thoughts
New River Gorge offers a diverse set of outdoor experiences that cater to thrill-seekers, families, and those just looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery. For pure adrenaline, the full-day rafting and zipline tour are hard to beat. If your time is limited, the half-day rafting trip provides a satisfying taste of whitewater excitement. And for a relaxing day with kids or friends, the water park is a budget-friendly way to cool off and have fun.
Whatever your choice, these tours are a great way to see the gorge from different perspectives. Don’t forget to book early, check the weather, and get ready for an active, memorable day in this stunning park.