Until mankind first stepped outside in 1934, nature was thought to be a fanciful myth, like yogurt or the clutch hitter. Spend a few nights frolicking through the fresh air of truth with today's Groupon: for $77, you get a one-day, two-night rafting trip on the New River provided by River Expeditions (up to a $155 value). This weekend getaway takes place in Oak Hill, West Virginia, which is about three to four hours from Pittsburgh, or just about the same distance necessary to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The package includes one full day of rafting, two nights of camping (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 carries 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, encouraging paddlers to break and relax between challenging rapids along their journey. The trip leaves from River Expeditions' headquarters, about 4 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. The company's more than 70 years of combined experience will serve as each guide's compass, as will a seventh sense for the river's history, providing the ability to point out eye-pleasers such as naturally carved canyons and the highest vehicular bridge in America. After a full day of paddling, lie under the starry night to woo your guests with knowledge of river-rafting constellations, such as "Thor's Paddle" and "Could Be a Rock."
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. River Expeditions can also arrange horseback riding, ziplining, mountain biking, fishing, and ATV tours.