Imagine floating down a river with your family, surrounded by spectacular scenery and the chance to see bald eagles soaring overhead. That’s exactly what you get with the Upper New River Family Rafting Afternoon Express in Hico, West Virginia. This 4-hour trip is designed for families and groups with children aged 5 and up, offering a balance of adventure and relaxation on the gentle Class I and II rapids. Typically, the tour costs around $60 per person, which, when you consider the scenery, wildlife, and expert guiding, makes it a solid value for a memorable outdoor experience.
What we love most about this trip is the accessibility — it’s perfect for first-timers or families wanting a taste of the river without the adrenaline rush of bigger rapids. The friendly guides, like Tom, really know how to keep things fun and informative, sharing insights into the area’s wildlife and history. Plus, the chance to spot birds of prey and possibly catch a glimpse of a bald eagle makes it a highlight. On the downside, since this is a shorter, express trip, it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a longer or more intense kayaking or rafting adventure. Still, if you’re looking for an easygoing, scenic outing with the kids or a group, this tour hits the spot.
This experience is best suited for families, beginner paddlers, or anyone eager to enjoy stunning nature views in a relaxed setting. If you’ve got children age 5 and above, or are simply after a fun, safe introduction to river rafting, this tour provides the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and learning.
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Key Points
- Family-friendly: Suitable for children ages 5 and up, with gentle rapids.
- Scenic beauty: Stunning views of New River Gorge National Park, with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
- Expert guiding: Friendly guides provide safety briefings and share interesting facts.
- Flexible options: Custom start times and group discounts available.
- Short duration: 4-hour trip ideal for those with limited time or new to rafting.
- No meal stop: Focused on floating and enjoying the surroundings, rather than a full-day trip.
The Experience in Detail
If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate how well-organized and considerate this tour is, especially for families or first-time rafters. The process begins at BaseCamp in Hico, where you’ll check in, meet your guide—who is always friendly and knowledgeable—and get outfitted with safety gear. The initial briefing covers everything you need to know to stay safe and have fun. The atmosphere is relaxed but professional, which immediately puts first-timers at ease.
The short bus ride from BaseCamp to the river’s edge is a nice preview of what’s ahead. During this ride, your guide might tell stories about the area’s history or point out interesting natural features. Once you arrive at the river, you’ll begin practicing paddle strokes on a quiet stretch, helping everyone feel comfortable before setting off into the main adventure.
The rafting route itself is designed for a gentle float, with occasional Class I and II rapids that add some splash and excitement without being overwhelming. We loved the up-close views of sandstone cliffs and the peaceful float that allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery. The riverbanks are alive with birdlife, and guides often point out birds of prey, waterfowl, and sometimes even bald eagles — a real treat if you’re lucky.
One reviewer noted, “We saw several birds of prey soaring above us and even spotted a bald eagle,” which shows how wildlife is part of the experience. The guides’ stories about the local flora and fauna enrich the trip, making it both educational and entertaining.
For those who want to take a break or cool off, there are opportunities to swim – a perfect way to beat the afternoon heat. The calm waters and manageable rapids make this suitable even for children or novice paddlers. The trip culminates with your return to the starting point, where you’ll hop back on the bus for the short ride back to BaseCamp.
What Makes This Trip Special
Unlike longer or more intense whitewater trips, this tour emphasizes scenic beauty and wildlife spotting, which makes it ideal for families and casual adventurers. The stunning views of the New River Gorge, with its towering cliffs and diverse rock formations, provide a spectacular backdrop. Many reviews comment on how peaceful and beautiful the scenery is, emphasizing that this isn’t just about the water — it’s about connecting with nature.
The guides’ local knowledge is another highlight. They share stories that bring the landscape to life, and their enthusiasm for the environment is contagious. The small group size (usually around 10-12 people) ensures everyone gets attention, and the guides can tailor the experience to your group’s pace and interests.
Practical Details and Tips
The trip is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. and ends around 6:30 p.m., fitting well into an afternoon plan. It’s a full four hours, including check-in, safety briefing, transportation, and the floating experience itself. Be sure to arrive prepared with swimwear, sunscreen, and water, as you’ll get wet and want to stay comfortable.
Since the tour is designed without a meal stop, bring a snack or extra water if you’d like to stay energized. The tour provider offers group and school rates, and can arrange custom start times for larger parties, making it flexible for family reunions, school outings, or special occasions.
Children under 5 are not suited for this trip, but that leaves plenty of room for kids age 5 and above to enjoy their first rafting adventure safely.
The Value of This Experience
When you consider the cost—around $60 per person—you’re paying for a well-organized, scenic, and educational outing. The guides’ knowledge and the pristine environment add to the overall value, making it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable outdoor experience. It’s not just about getting wet; it’s about appreciating the natural beauty of West Virginia’s most famous landscape, with the comfort and safety of a professionally run tour.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Trip?
This adventure is perfect for families with young children eager to try rafting in a controlled, friendly environment. It also suits beginners or those looking for a relaxed, scenic float rather than an adrenaline rush. If you’re short on time but want a taste of river life and incredible views, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. Nature lovers will appreciate the possibility of spotting wildlife, and anyone wanting to learn about the area from local guides will find this outing rewarding.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for families with kids aged 5 and older. Children will enjoy the gentle rapids and scenic float, but it’s not suitable for children under 5.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and water. Since you’ll get wet, wearing quick-drying clothing is recommended.
How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including check-in, transportation, safety briefing, and floating.
Are there group or custom options?
Yes, group and school rates are available, and custom start times can be arranged for larger parties.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing you to book with confidence.
Is it safe for first-timers?
Absolutely. The trip is designed for beginners, with thorough safety briefings and guides who keep spirits high and ensure everyone is comfortable.
Final Thoughts
The Upper New River Family Rafting Afternoon Express in West Virginia offers a relaxed yet engaging way to experience the beauty of the New River Gorge. With its gentle rapids, stunning scenery, and wildlife sightings, it’s a perfect outing for families or anyone new to rafting. Expect friendly guides, beautiful views, and a chance to connect with nature, all within a manageable four-hour window.
While it might lack the adrenaline of bigger whitewater trips, this excursion delivers genuine peace, fun, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic choice if your priority is a safe, scenic, and educational outdoor adventure that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Additional Information
Location: West Virginia, United States
Duration: 4 hours
Price: Approximately $60 per person
Suitable for: Children 5+, families, beginners
Provider: West Virginia Adventures
Reserve & Pay Later: Yes, booking is flexible and can be canceled 24 hours in advance
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure or a peaceful way to take in the stunning landscapes of West Virginia, this rafting trip hits the mark. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with vivid memories of gorgeous views and wildlife sightings — and maybe a splash or two.
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