Hico, WV: Upper New River Family Rafting Afternoon Express

Traveling with kids and craving a splash of adventure while soaking in incredible scenery? The Upper New River Family Rafting Afternoon Express in West Virginia might just be the activity you’re looking for. This 4-hour float through the New River Gorge National Park offers a relaxed yet exciting way to experience one of America’s most scenic waterways without the intense rapids or lengthy commitments of full-day trips.

What we particularly like about this tour is its family-friendly approach—it’s designed for children aged 5 and up, making it accessible for a wide age range. Plus, the opportunity to spot wildlife like bald eagles and water birds in their natural habitat adds a special touch that elevates this trip from just another float. On the flip side, it’s a shorter and calmer outing, so those seeking high-adrenaline white-water might find it a bit tame. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure suitable for all ages, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially perfect for families, school groups, or anyone looking for a gentle introduction to river rafting with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and take photos along the way.

Key Points

• Gentle Rapids: Class I and II rapids ensure fun without the danger, ideal for beginners and kids.
• Stunning Scenery: Views of the New River Gorge and surrounding rock formations are a visual treat.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for birds of prey, water birds, and perhaps a bald eagle.
• Educational Element: Guides share insights about the area’s wildlife and history, enriching the experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Short 4-hour trip with options for custom start times and group rates.
• Water Activities: Opportunity to swim and play in the river makes it interactive and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Informative Look at the Experience

This trip kicks off at BaseCamp in Hico, where you check in and meet your friendly guide. Expect a warm welcome, a safety briefing, and a quick fitting of equipment—think life jackets and paddles. What sets this outing apart is how smoothly everything runs: a short bus ride whisks you from the base to the river, minimizing travel fuss and maximizing river time.

Once on the river, your guide takes charge, sharing safety tips with humor and professionalism. You’ll practice paddle strokes on calm waters—an easy way to build confidence before tackling the gentle rapids. For families, this is often the highlight; not just paddling but also sharing laughs and enjoying each other’s company amid stunning scenery.

The scenery is a standout feature here. The gorge’s towering rock faces, the surrounding lush greenery, and the chance to watch passing trains on the nearby tracks create a cinematic backdrop. Be sure to bring your camera—these views are among the best you’ll find along the river. As the raft drifts along, keep an eye out for birds of prey, especially bald eagles if luck is on your side, along with waterfowl and other wildlife.

The rapids are gentle enough that even first-timers can relax and enjoy. The Class I and II rapids offer just enough excitement to keep the kids engaged without overwhelming them. Several reviewers mention how their children loved the experience, noting it was “perfect for first-time rafters” and “fun and relaxing.” The float allows for plenty of stops—swimming, playing, or simply soaking in the views—making the 4-hour trip feel full but not rushed.

Throughout the journey, guides share stories about the area’s history and natural environment, adding educational value to the fun. You might learn why the gorge looks the way it does or hear tales about the local wildlife, which enhances your connection to the landscape.

For those concerned about logistics, the trip offers flexibility with custom start times for larger groups or schools and group rates. The price is reasonable considering the length, safety, and the quality of guides and equipment involved—it’s a quality experience that delivers good value, especially for families wanting a memorable outing without the hefty price tag of longer or more challenging trips.

What’s Included and What to Bring

You’ll need to bring simple essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, and water—nothing fancy, just items that keep you comfortable and protected. The guide will provide all necessary equipment, and you’ll be outfitted before heading to the river. Expect the check-in at 3 p.m. and return around 6:30 p.m., fitting nicely into an afternoon outing.

Because the trip is designed for a relaxed experience, participants should be comfortable with a light physical activity and water. Although it’s suitable for children five and older, the tour is not recommended for kids under five, given safety considerations.

Transportation is straightforward: a short bus ride from the base to the river, making logistics simple and hassle-free. The focus remains on the river and the scenery, so guests can relax knowing their transportation and safety are well managed.

Authentic Feedback and Real Experiences

Several reviews highlight how much fun families had on this trip. One parent mentioned, “We loved the way the guide kept the kids engaged and laughing,” emphasizing how guides blend safety with entertainment. Others appreciated the scenic views, describing them as “absolutely stunning,” especially the rock formations and the chance to see eagles soaring overhead.

The opportunity to swim and play in the water is another plus. Many found the pace perfect—relaxing yet filled with enough activity to keep everyone interested. The short duration makes it accessible for younger children or those with limited time, without sacrificing the quality of the experience.

While some reviewers note the trip’s calm nature might not satisfy thrill-seekers, they agree it’s ideal for families or first-time rafters. The group rates and customizable start times also make it attractive for schools or larger groups wanting a tailored experience.

Final Thoughts

This Upper New River Family Rafting Afternoon Express offers a rare blend of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and family-friendly fun. It’s a well-organized outing that balances safety, education, and excitement—perfect for introducing young adventurers to river sports in a safe, relaxed environment.

Compared to full-day trips or more intense white-water adventures, this tour emphasizes quality over quantity, making it an excellent choice for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a gentle, scenic float with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. The stunning vistas, combined with the chance to learn about local wildlife and history, make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon in West Virginia’s famous gorge.

If you’re seeking a practical, enjoyable, and beautifully scenic introduction to river rafting that keeps the kids happy and your camera busy, this trip fits the bill. It’s a straightforward, value-packed outing that gets you out on the water with minimal fuss but maximum scenic reward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for children aged 5 and older. The gentle Class I and II rapids make it safe and fun for young adventurers.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours, starting at 3 p.m. and returning around 6:30 p.m., including check-in, safety briefing, transportation, and the float.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and water. The tour provides all safety equipment and paddles.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group and school rates are available, and customized start times can be arranged for larger parties.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a high-adrenaline rafting trip?
No, it’s designed for a relaxed, family-friendly experience with calm waters and gentle rapids.

What are the highlights of this tour?
Expect stunning scenery, wildlife sightings (including eagles), engaging guides, and the chance to swim and play in the river.

How scenic is the route?
The views of the New River Gorge and rock formations are among the best you’ll see in the area, making it perfect for photography and nature lovers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the trip is scheduled for the afternoon, it’s best to check the weather forecast. If canceled, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a great way to enjoy West Virginia’s natural beauty without intense exertion. It’s ideal for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a gentle adventure with plenty of picture-perfect moments. The combination of scenic views, wildlife spotting, and accessible fun makes it a standout choice for a memorable afternoon in the New River Gorge.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby