The Call of the Rapids

The New River Gorge, a place where the wild heart of West Virginia beats strongest, was calling my name. As a former extreme sports athlete, I’ve chased adrenaline across the globe, but the promise of Class III/IV rapids in the heart of this national park was irresistible. My crew of thrill-seekers and I arrived at BaseCamp, greeted by the crisp morning air and the promise of adventure.

Our guide, Crock, was a legend on the river, with nearly five decades of experience. His presence was both reassuring and invigorating. After fitting us with life vests and helmets, Crock walked us through the essentials: how to sit, where to plant our feet, and the all-important paddle commands. We practiced on the raft, feeling the anticipation build with each stroke.

The bus ride to the launch area was a prelude to the adventure, offering a breathtaking view of the river below. Cameras clicked, capturing the moment before we plunged into the heart of the gorge. At the launch site, the team worked seamlessly to inflate the rafts, and soon we were guiding our vessel down the rails to the water’s edge.

Into the Heart of the Gorge

With a few practice commands from Crock, we were off, the river’s current pulling us into its embrace. The first rapid hit us with a rush of icy spray, a wake-up call to the senses. Crock’s voice cut through the roar of the water, guiding us with precision and humor. His knowledge of the river was encyclopedic, each rapid a chapter in the story he wove with ease.

The scenery was nothing short of spectacular. Towering cliffs, remnants of old coal mining operations, and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead painted a picture of rugged beauty. As we navigated the rapids, Crock’s jokes kept the mood light, his laughter infectious. It was clear he loved this river, and his passion was contagious.

Midway through our journey, we pulled ashore for a much-needed break. Stretching our legs, we took in the serene beauty of the gorge, a stark contrast to the adrenaline-pumping rapids. Water bottles were passed around, and we shared stories with our fellow adventurers, a family and a couple who had joined our raft.

The Final Surge

Back on the river, the second half of our journey promised even more thrills. The rapids came faster, each one a new challenge to conquer. Crock’s guidance was unwavering, his experience a steady hand in the tumultuous waters. As we approached the final stretch, the New River Gorge Bridge loomed overhead, a testament to human ingenuity and the perfect backdrop for our adventure.

The pull-out point marked the end of our river journey, but the camaraderie and shared experience lingered. We hauled the raft ashore, muscles aching but spirits high. Refreshments awaited, a welcome reprieve after the exertion of the day.

For those who wear glasses, a word of advice: bring chums or retainers to keep them secure. One of our fellow rafters learned this the hard way, but thanks to the ingenuity of another guide, a makeshift solution was crafted from duct tape.

As we wrapped up our adventure, I couldn’t help but reflect on the thrill of the rapids and the beauty of the gorge. The New River had delivered an unforgettable experience, one that I would eagerly repeat. If you’re seeking a heart-pounding adventure, look no further than the New River Rafting and be sure to ask for Crock. His expertise and humor will make your journey down the river one for the books.