West Virginia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who want more than a quick peek at the scenery. The state’s rugged terrain, from deep gorges to mountain peaks, makes it ideal for full-day tours that combine adrenaline, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. We’re particularly fond of the New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting because of its breathtaking canyon scenery and the thrill of navigating one of the oldest rivers in the world. If you’re looking for a mix of excitement and scenery, a river tour here is a must. Plus, the Gauley River rapids offer some of the best whitewater experiences in the country, with options suitable for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. For a fun family activity, the Adventure Waterpark provides a full day of inflatable fun and water slides, ideal for cooling off after outdoor adventures.
Below, you’ll find a list of the 8 best full-day tours in West Virginia. Whether you’re after intense rapids, scenic mountain biking, or climbing, each one offers a unique way to explore this dynamic state.
1. New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting, WV – Lower New Full Day
At number 1, the New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting, WV – Lower New Full Day ranks as one of the top river adventures in the region. This 6-hour trip takes you through the second oldest river in the world, flowing through a 1,000-foot-deep canyon lined with soaring sandstone cliffs. The New River Gorge was recently designated as a National Park, and the scenery here is as impressive as the paddling experience.
Guided by highly knowledgeable staff, you’ll paddle through Class II-IV rapids, swim in the river, and enjoy a riverside lunch prepared by your guides. The trip ends beneath the famous New River Gorge Bridge, providing a photo-worthy backdrop. What makes this tour stand out is its perfect balance of adventure and scenery—plus, the safety protocols are professional and reassuring. One reviewer described it as “a great day rafting on the lower New,” emphasizing the fun and safety. This tour is best suited for anyone comfortable with mild to moderate rapids and looking for a comprehensive Introduction to whitewater rafting in West Virginia.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for first-timers or families, offering a scenic yet exciting ride down a historic river.
2. Full Day Fall Lower Gauley Rafting in West Virginia
Coming in at number 2, the Full Day Fall Lower Gauley Rafting is perfect for thrill-seekers aged 12 and up. This 7-hour adventure covers 10 miles of the Lower Gauley River, home to 50 rapids ranging from Class III to V. This trip is ideal for those who want a challenging, adrenaline-pumping experience, but it also appeals to adventurous beginners eager to test their limits.
The Gauley River offers a dynamic mix of powerful waves and technical rapids, with some of the most exciting whitewater in the country. The flow is dam-released, ensuring consistent conditions, and the guides are experienced in managing the river’s tricky sections. One reviewer highlights the trip as “an exciting day,” emphasizing the safety and professional guides. The trip’s longer duration and intense rapids make it best suited for people with some paddling experience or confident beginners prepared for a full day of adventure.
Bottom Line: For those craving a high-octane ride through spectacular scenery, this tour delivers. Be prepared for a physically demanding day but one packed with unforgettable moments.
3. Fall Upper Gauley Full Day Whitewater Rafting
Ranked third, the Fall Upper Gauley Full Day Whitewater Rafting offers 12 miles of intense rapids packed with over 50 Class III to V rapids. This is the most challenging of the Gauley trips, perfect for experienced paddlers or those seeking a true whitewater adventure.
Navigating through sections with names like “Iron Ring” and “Knee Deep,” you’ll experience some of the most exhilarating rapids in the country. The guides are experts, sharing detailed insights, making this trip not just about adrenaline but also about appreciating the power of the river. The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, including time for safety briefings and breaks. While reviews are limited, the few comments praise the thrill factor and the professionalism of the guides.
Bottom Line: If you’re an experienced rafter or an adventurous beginner with prior experience, this trip offers a challenging and rewarding whitewater experience.
4. New River Gorge: Lower New River Full-Day Rafting Tour
At number 4, the Lower New River Full-Day Rafting takes you through Class II-IV rapids in a 6-hour trip that emphasizes both thrills and scenic beauty. This tour is ideal for those wanting a taste of classic whitewater with the chance to swim in the river and enjoy a riverside lunch.
What makes this trip special is its combination of exciting rapids and stunning scenery. During the day, you’ll paddle through towering boulders and rushing waves, with plenty of opportunities to take a plunge off Jump Rock or simply soak in the landscape. The reviews underscore the trip’s fun and safety, with one mentioning “incredible staff” and a “wonderful experience.” It’s perfect for families or those new to whitewater, seeking a full day of adventure with manageable rapids.
Bottom Line: Great for casual paddlers or families, offering a mix of adventure and scenic immersion for a fair price.
$153 per person
5. New River Gorge, WV Adventure Waterpark – Full Day
Number 5 on our list, the Adventure Waterpark is a family-friendly day packed with inflatable obstacles, waterslides, and more. The 8-hour visit is perfect for those who want to combine outdoor fun with relaxation. It’s a spring-fed lake transformed into a floating playground, with features like two 40-foot waterslides, zip lines, and giant inflatables.
The park also offers hiking and biking trails that you can access with your waterpark pass, making it a versatile day out. Reviewers appreciate the value for money, especially since the ticket includes unlimited access to the inflatables for the entire day, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The variety of activities makes it especially suited for families with kids or groups looking for a laid-back, fun-filled day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a relaxed, active day with plenty of water-based entertainment but less suitable for those seeking intense adventure.
$35.26 per person
6. Full day E-Bike Rental to explore Pipestem and Bluestone WV
Number 6 offers the Full day E-Bike Rental, ideal for riders eager to cover more ground in West Virginia’s scenic areas. This 12-hour rental allows you to explore the Pipestem and Bluestone regions at your own pace, with power-assisted bikes suitable for tough trails and beginners alike.
The long range of these e-bikes makes it possible to visit multiple viewpoints or enjoy extended rides along the mountain trails. Since this is a self-guided experience, it appeals to those who prefer flexibility and independence over structured tours. While reviews are currently unavailable, the value lies in the full-day access and robust bikes designed for challenging terrain.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers comfortable with cycling and looking for an independent, full-day exploration of West Virginia’s rugged landscape.
$86.99 per person
7. Lower New River Gorge Full Day Climb and Rappel
Number 7 features the Lower New River Gorge Full Day Climb and Rappel, offering a 6-hour opportunity to climb and rappel in the stunning Gorge. This tour is suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experienced climbers, thanks to a variety of routes.
The experience combines rock climbing with rapelling down scenic cliffs, giving you a hands-on way to enjoy West Virginia’s rugged rock formations. The emphasis is on safety and learning, with guides experienced in working with all skill levels. While reviews are not available, the unique combination of climbing and rappelling makes this a compelling choice for those wanting to try something different from traditional whitewater trips.
Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor lovers who want to experience climbing and rappelling in a beautiful setting and are open to trying a new challenge.
$195
8. West Virginia: Lower Gauley Full-Day Whitewater Trip
Finally, the Lower Gauley Full-Day Whitewater Trip ranks eighth. It features Class III-IV rapids over a 5-hour trip, with an emphasis on thrills and scenic canyon views, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its best.
The trip starts with a relaxed morning, then ramps up as you paddle through some of the most iconic rapids in the region. The rugged canyons and fall scenery make this a beautiful, adrenaline-filled day. One review highlights the fun of tackling challenging rapids while enjoying the wilderness. This tour suits paddlers who want a middle-ground experience—not as intense as Gauley’s upper sections but still packed with excitement.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for paddlers with some experience or confident beginners ready for a full day of whitewater with stunning views.
$147 per person
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in West Virginia
When deciding on a full-day adventure, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For instance, if you want a family-friendly, relaxed experience, the Adventure Waterpark provides great value. For thrill-seekers, the Gauley River trips—particularly the Fall Upper Gauley—offer challenging rapids and intense paddling, perfect for experienced adventurers.
Those interested in rock climbing and rappelling should check out the Climb and Rappel, while self-guided explorers can opt for the full-day E-bike rental to cover more ground on their own schedule.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the more popular rafting trips during peak seasons. Think about your fitness level, the type of adventure you prefer, and whether you want to include a mix of water, land, or climbing activities. Combining different experiences—like a whitewater trip with a side of mountain biking—can make for an unforgettable West Virginia itinerary.
Final Thoughts
West Virginia offers a fantastic array of full-day tours, from high-intensity whitewater rafting to scenic e-biking and climbing. For sheer adrenaline, the Gauley River trips can’t be beat, but the more relaxed options like the Waterpark provide perfect family fun. Whether you’re looking for a challenging adventure or just want to enjoy the outdoors at your own pace, West Virginia has a lot to offer. Be sure to book early to secure your spot and make the most of this rugged, beautiful state.