Grit....

FAMILY FUN ON
WEST VIRGINIA'S NEW RIVER

With an incredibly wide range of activities, West Virginia's New River region has developed into a Mid-Atlantic family fun Mecca. As families look for unique vacation possibilities, West Virginia, and particularly the New River, have become popular destinations.

"We tailor all our programs to include family members of all ages," says Jerry Cook, president of ACE Whitewater and Adventure Centers.

There are special flotation devices to fit kids, small backpacks, small saddles for horseback riding, kid-size climbing harnesses and shoes for rock climbing and rappelling.  Companies like ACE employ guides who are specially trained for youth- and family-oriented activities.

Families hungry for any level of adventure have a smorgasbord from which to choose. There are whitewater rafting; canoe trips; kayaking; hiking; nature programs; biking; horseback riding; rock climbing and rappelling; camping; paintball; train rides; and historic and cultural trips.

The New River is probably the second oldest river in the world--after the Nile. It begins high in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and makes its way north through Virginia and West Virginia to join the Gauley River. The river's gorge plunges to 1,000 feet in depth, where 53 miles of its course are designated the New River Gorge National River. Before glaciation, the New River flowed all the way to the Great Lakes area. A trip down any part of the river is a fascinating geological exploration.  Some of the oldest rocks in the East have been exposed.

More than 80% of the National River section of the New River is perfect for those who desire a mild introduction to whitewater

The Canyon Rim Visitors Center, located atop the New River Gorge, is an ideal first stop for visiting families. The visitors center features a slide show, changing exhibits about the New River, floor-to-ceiling windows to view the gorge, and a boardwalk that leads to a spectacular view of the gorge and the famed New River Bridge, which is the world's longest single-arch steel span bridge--3,030 feet long and 876 feet high.

The Upper New has become a particularly popular spot for families. Many outfitters offer varied trips down the Upper New, depending on the ages and goals of families. Some of the possibilities include: mild whitewater rafting; canoeing; camping on the banks of the river; picnics during a trip down the river; swimming; riverside history, geology, and exploration. This portion of the river mixes mild rapids with calm pools ideal for swimming and relaxing. There are different age limits for different trips, but they generally start at six or seven.

The Lower New features larger and more legendary whitewater. Trips are also available to families, but the age limits are generally raised to the mid-teens level. This is an ideal adventure for teenaged boys and girls.

A trip down the New is just the beginning, however. The New River Gorge features other adventures where participants are less likely to get wet.  The 1,400-foot canyon is ideal for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing and rappelling.

Hiking is ideal for kids and adults of all ages. The New River area features many excellent hiking trails, ranging from a short stroll to multi-day hikes of many miles.  Many outfitters now have "Hike and Paddle" packages that offer spectacular views on and above the New River.

Thanks to New River Llama Treks, the area now has guided llama trekking.  They offer guided day and overnight llama packing trips.  The llama lunch-hikes last about six hours and include an orientation and gourmet lunch.  The guided overnight llama treks feature two nights of camping--llamas carry all the gear--with hiking and fishing possibilities.  It's definitely a unique option for families.

Any form of New River exploration is a nature trip, with professional guides providing families with a moving history and geology lesson. But many companies now offer specific nature-oriented tours where guides explain the flora, fauna, and diverse biological ecosystems of the area.

One of the state's finest new attractions is located down in Beckley. Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia features West Virginia-made products and crafts, including specialty foods, pottery and quilts.  Kids will enjoy the crafts demonstrations, a nature trail, play area, and more.

Nearby, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine features a 35-minute riding tour conducted by experienced coal miners. Families can go underground to witness historic and modern mining techniques. The National Historic Site gives children a hands-on understanding of a unique part of West Virginia's history and culture.