Things To Do In Beckley

Rivermen's New River rafting trips guide amateurs and avid aquanauts alike through some of the most scenic whitewater rapids of New River Gorge National River. Reverential rafters can drink up hearty eyefuls of the gorge and its abundant wildlife, weathered bluffs, and recognizable bridge, as seen on the West Virginia state Pog and quarter. The upper river excursion (4–6 hours, $124) traverses canyons on relatively mild waters punctuated by a few easy rapids. Easily navigable by group raft or inflatable duck (a kayak-like vessel that holds 1–2 people), the upper trip makes an enjoyable introduction to whitewater for families, beginner to intermediate rafters, and adolescent Loch Ness monsters. The lower route (4–6 hours, $134) quickens the pulse with more than 25 rapids, as well as tranquil pools and the requisite breathtaking scenery. Both tours will stop to provide lunch.

Nestled amid rustic riverside scenery, North American River Runner's 1,500-acre resort welcomes families, friends, and nature enthusiasts with a plethora of engaging al fresco entertainment. Guests can set up their own tents and equipment on the mountaintop campgrounds for two nights (a $26 value) amid peaceful, panoramic views of the surrounding forest, free from the modern world and its brilliantly colored jumbotrons. Although not included in this Groupon, campers may opt to upgrade from standard accommodations to bunkhouses or deluxe lodging for an additional fee or add on rental tents and gear, such as a flannel-lined sleeping bag and pillow ($5) or a camp kit with an assembled four-man tent and four half-inch, close-cell foam sleeping pads ($10). The grounds afford campers access to a fire pit and picnic table, as well as shower houses within walking distance for washing up or crooning. Along with one breakfast (up to a $9 value) and lunch (a $9 value), NARR's foodie-friendly dinner banquet boasts vegetarian options, tender beef brisket, and Cajun-rubbed rack of pork alongside an army of side dishes, desserts, and drinks (up to a $20 value).

Located in the midst of a gated 4,100 acre property in the Appalachian Mountains, Glade Springs offers 3 top-rated championship 18-hole golf courses, facilities for boating, fishing, caving, hiking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting. Nature abounds in all its beauty.

Outdoor adventurers raft, zipline, and climb across ACE Adventure Resort's 1,500 acres of wilderness along the New River Gorge National River, staying close to the action with a variety of lodging options. Whitewater-rafting trips satisfy all skill levels and include family-friendly Upper New River excursions with bouncy rapids, swimming holes, and a grilled lunch. Intermediate Lower New River trips balance rapids with calm spots to thrill both beginners and advanced rafters, and the Gauley River provides a challenging adventure with its raging rapids and predatory goldfish. More than a dozen off-river adventure activities send guests ziplining through the canopy, revving through the mud on ATVs, and horseback riding down shaded trails to catch views of the New River Gorge. The lake itself is stocked with big inflatable toys, including waterslides and trampolines for kids. After action-packed days, groups lodge in deluxe cabins outfitted with kitchens and bathrooms or opt for rustic cabins, cabin tents, or sites perfect for parking an RV or roadworthy caboose.

A bearded and scruffy Shawn Hash launched his outfitting business 20 years ago with a spartan collection of four bicycles, two canoes, and a pickup truck. Tangent Outfitters now oversees a small flotilla of aquatic craft as it leads guests to all the outdoor adventures the New River and its surrounding valley have to offer. Tubing trips afford a leisurely 1- to 2-mile jaunt down the river, with plenty of pit stops at sunny beaches, swimming holes, or riverside nail salons. Instructors bring a slice of Hawaiian watersports to Virginia with standup paddleboard lessons or teach guests to snag unsuspecting smallmouths with guided fishing trips. The surrounding mountainous trails invite bikers to speed through their dirt-stained paths, and the riverbeds host seven different types of kayak and canoe day trips. Adventurers can stock up on excursion rations at Tangent's onsite deli.

New Tech Aviation Inc.'s squadron of flight instructors and Cessna 172L aircrafts whisk aspiring pilots into the wild, blue yonder for introductory and advanced flight lessons. Their seasoned airmen explain to students the many advantages of owning a pilot’s license, describing the ability to fly as a gateway to career opportunities and a means of collecting golden eggs laid by geese in tall trees. The company's certified pilots guide students toward earning their licenses through on-ground instruction and regular scheduled flying excursions.