Skip to main content
Adventures on the Gorge tour agency in Fayetteville, WV
Photo: Adventures on the Gorge
View of Adventures on the Gorge in Fayetteville, WV
Photo: David Riggleman
View of Adventures on the Gorge in Fayetteville, WV
Photo: Wendy Bowen

Adventures on the Gorge

4.8(3,235 reviews)$$$Adventure
🕑 Full day (6-8 hours for single activities with travel time; multi-day for comprehensive adventure packages)👶 Best for ages 6 and up, though some activities accommodate younger adventurers. Upper and lower New River rafting trips accept children as young as 6, zip-line tours typically require kids to be 9+, and rock climbing/rappelling experiences work well for ages 8 and older who meet weight requirements. Families with teens will find the most activity options available.

About

Adventures on the Gorge is West Virginia's ultimate outdoor adventure playground, offering families an incredible array of adrenaline-pumping activities set along the stunning New River Gorge. From beginner-friendly rafting trips perfect for first-timers to thrilling zip-line canopy tours, this award-winning adventure center provides expertly guided experiences that create lasting family memories while exploring one of America's most beautiful natural areas.

Highlights

  • New River whitewater rafting trips ranging from family-friendly floats to intense Class V rapids
  • TimberTrek Adventure Park with multiple zip-line courses and aerial challenges through the forest canopy
  • Rock climbing and rappelling on natural sandstone cliffs with professional instruction
  • Mountain biking trails and guided tours through the Appalachian wilderness
  • On-site waterfront activities including swimming, fishing, and kayaking on private lakes

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Book multi-activity packages in advance for better rates and guaranteed spots during peak summer months,rafting trips often sell out weeks ahead
  2. 2.Start with a lower New River rafting trip if you have younger or first-time rafters; it's milder but still exciting with Class I-III rapids
  3. 3.Bring secure water shoes (not flip-flops), quick-dry clothes, sunscreen, and a change of clothes in a waterproof bag,you WILL get soaked
  4. 4.Arrive 45 minutes early for check-in and gear fitting; the property is large and activities depart on schedule
  5. 5.Consider staying overnight at their on-site lodging to maximize your adventure time and enjoy the resort amenities like pools and lakefront activities

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best weather and full activity availability. Visit midweek (Tuesday-Thursday) to avoid weekend crowds, and book morning activities when kids have the most energy. September offers gorgeous fall foliage with smaller crowds than peak summer.

What to Know

Activity prices vary widely ($50-$150+ per person depending on experience chosen), and multi-day packages offer the best value. The resort provides all necessary safety equipment and expert guides. On-site dining options available, and the property offers lodging from cabins to glamping if you want to extend your adventure.

Seasonal Notes

Peak season runs May through September with all activities operational and warmest weather. Rafting water levels are highest in spring (April-May) for more intense rapids. Some activities like zip-lining operate year-round weather permitting, while rafting season typically runs March-October. Winter months have limited offerings focused on rock climbing and indoor activities.

Nearby Eats

Cathedral Cafe in Fayetteville (15 minutes away) serves excellent sandwiches, burgers, and homemade desserts in a casual atmosphere kids enjoy. Secret Sandwich Society, also in Fayetteville, offers creative sandwich combinations and local favorites that satisfy hungry adventurers.

More Activities Near Fayetteville

Adventure

Canyon Rim Boardwalk

5.0Free

The Canyon Rim Boardwalk offers families an easy, accessible way to experience the stunning beauty of New River Gorge without challenging hiking trails. This elevated walkway features smooth, stroller-friendly paths that wind along the canyon rim, providing spectacular panoramic views that will captivate kids and parents alike. It's an ideal introduction to West Virginia's natural wonders for families with young children or those seeking a low-impact outdoor adventure.

Adventure

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

4.9Free

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve offers families an incredible outdoor playground with America's newest national park featuring dramatic canyon views, kid-friendly hiking trails, and thrilling adventures. With over 70,000 acres to explore, families can enjoy everything from gentle riverside walks and scenic overlook visits to wildlife spotting and junior ranger programs that make learning about Appalachian nature exciting for children.

Adventure

Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine & Museum

4.6$

Step back in time and venture 1,500 feet underground at this authentic coal mine where kids can experience what life was like for Appalachian miners. This hands-on historical adventure combines education with excitement as families walk through actual mine shafts, see vintage equipment, and learn fascinating stories about West Virginia's coal mining heritage from knowledgeable guides.

Adventure

Kaymoor Miners Trailhead

4.6Free

Kaymoor Miners Trailhead offers families an exciting blend of outdoor adventure and living history in the stunning New River Gorge. Kids will be fascinated exploring the remnants of old coal mining structures while hiking through beautiful forested trails with breathtaking gorge overlooks. This moderate trail provides just enough challenge to keep older children engaged while offering incredible educational opportunities about Appalachian mining heritage.