What You'll Get
Corrupt amusement parks lure visitors with fluffed sugar wads and metal structures that launch riders on deceivingly near-death scream machines. Rebel against unruly parks on nature's finest rollycoaster, water ride, and tilt-a-whirl built into one: for $77, you get a one-day, two-night rafting and camping excursion on the Lower New River from River Expeditions (up to a $155 value) in Oak Hill, WV (about a five-hour drive from Cleveland). This package includes one full day of rafting, two nights of camping (you can bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and pillow, or rent them for an additional price), one deli lunch on the river, daily continental breakfast, one dinner, and beverages. Grab up to eight Groupons to bring along the whole crew or start a new summertime hobby.
Bond with friends and family as you go into battle with just a paddle against the watery forces of Mother Nature. The Lower New River rafting trip explores a stretch of tumultuous rapids that carry bottled love letters and the designation of "National River" from the National Park Service. Whether you're a beginner rafterfarian or veteran paddler, River Expeditions will forge you an ideal river path during your two-night getaway. The river ranges from class II "mostly mild" to class V "might need new pants," with a series of rapids slowing into calm pools, which encourage paddlers to break and relax between challenging rapids along their journey. The trip leaves from River Expeditions' headquarters, about four miles southwest of the famous New River Gorge Bridge. Rafters must be 12 years or older if accompanied by an adult or at least 18 years old to go unaccompanied.
An expert river guide will lead each rafting trip, using the company's more than 70 years of combined experience as their compass and a seventh sense for the river's history to point out eye-pleasers such as naturally carved canyons and the highest vehicular bridge in America. After a full day of paddling, lay under the starry night to woo your guests with knowledge of river-rafting constellations, such as "Thor's Paddle" and "Could Be a Rock."
Reviews
A reporter from the Columbus Dispatch wrote about his experience with River Expeditions here. The company has more than 1,400 Facebook fans, and ten Facebook reviewers unanimously give it five stars:
- Floating the New and Gauley rivers in central West Virginia is a bit like visiting God's own amusement park; you may never be completely satisfied with a man-made water ride again… – Steve Stephens, Columbus Dispatch
- By far the most exciting new hobby I could not have asked for more will book at least 3 trips next year bribing everyone I know ( they are gonna b hooked) [sic] – Jacki Coots, Facebook
- These guys are top notch. Excellect [sic] rafting and great camping. We'll definately [sic] be back next summer. – Andy White, Facebook
The Fine Print
Promotional value expires Aug 30, 2010. Amount paid never expires. Limit 8 per person. Must be at least 12 years old. Reservation required. Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.
About River Expeditions
Since 1972, River Expeditions’ seasoned river guides have organized whitewater-rafting trips down the New River and the Gauley River in southern West Virginia’s scenic Appalachian Mountains. There’s a stretch of water for all ages and skill levels, from those looking for a scenic float to paddlers craving a soaked-to-the-bone thrill ride. In addition to day trips, River Expeditions also offers overnight excursions with the ability to upgrade to a cabin. River Expeditions can also arrange ziplining, mountain biking, and fishing.