Ecotraveler....

WEST VIRGINIA WHITEWATER:

THE NEW RIVER

West Virginia is fast-becoming known as "the Colorado of the East" and the whitewater rivers are a big reason. Tourism (much of which is "ecotourism") is now one of the largest industries in the state and commercial whitewater rafting plays a big part.

Rafting opportunities in the state are numerous and varied, with more than twenty-five companies actively operating on the state's major whitewater rivers. Each year, more than 250,000 people go whitewater rafting in the state.

The fall Gauley River season is a big reason for West Virginia's whitewater fame, but insiders know that March and April bring the torrents of spring on a different river. Come spring, surf's up in West Virginia, when the New River features wonderful whitewater and incredible Mountaineer State scenery.

The New River is probably (and ironically) the second oldest river in the world (behind the Nile). The New begins high in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and makes its way through Virginia and West Virginia to join the Gauley. Before glaciation, the New River flowed all the way to the present Great Lakes area. A raft trip makes for fascinating geological exploration, where some of the oldest rocks in the east have been exposed.

The spring New River trip provides a perfect example of what to expect from West Virginia whitewater. Each raft has a guide and they explain everything needed to hit the river. After the quiet put-in, the rapids progress in difficulty and enjoyment. The gorge has an average width of one mile and the beauty of its ancient walls make for spectacular sightseeing and some interesting geological and coal mining history from the well-informed guides.

Every whitewater outfitter in West Virginia is unique. Their operations can vary from small buildings to elaborate base camps with stores, restaurants, campgrounds, and much more. Many companies offer popular, convenient, and discounted package arrangements, including rafting, accommodations, food, and other possibilities.

Class VI River Runners in Lansing, one of the state's most successful whitewater companies, offers a number of great packages (a simple New River trip starts at about $75). Their base camp is north of Beckley in a 1,000-acre oak forest overlooking the New River Gorge, often called "The Grand Canyon of the East." There's a great visitor center nearby, providing a perfect introduction to the New River Gorge National River (304/465-0508).

The New River spring trip features some big water, long rapids, large drops, and plenty of excitement. It all starts with Surprise (which is) and progresses through big-time whitewater in Keeney Brothers, Double Z, Greyhound Bus Stopper, and Undercut Rock. It's a wet and wild ride that happens to take place within the walls of a beautifully rugged mountain landscape.

Class VI stops along the banks of the river for an elaborate picnic lunch that includes many freshly-prepared gourmet choices. Their lunches are so popular that they recently published a cookbook for all of their loyal paddlers and diners.

More rapids follow after lunch, before a late-afternoon take-out and a bus ride back to Class VI. Typical topics of conversation on the bus include the best rapids, the funniest guides, and the sheer beauty.

For further information about whitewater rafting in the state, contact the West Virginia Division of Commerce, 2101 Washington St. E., Charleston, WV 25305, (800) CALL WVA. Class VI River Runners is at P.O. Drawer 78, Lansing, WV 25862, 800/CLASS VI (252-7784) or 304/574-0704.