If you’re dreaming of a water adventure in West Virginia, this guided paddleboarding and kayaking tour at the New River Gorge might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally done it, the glowing reviews and thoughtful details make it clear that this experience offers a great way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty without fuss or fussiness. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to relax on the water, it’s worth considering.
What we really like about this tour is the professional guidance that ensures everyone feels comfortable, even if you’ve never tried paddleboarding or kayaking before. Plus, the scenic setting—with views of the Appalachian Mountains and the waterfalls—makes it stand out. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that snacks and bottled water aren’t included, so it’s a good idea to bring your own if you plan to spend extra time exploring or relaxing afterward. This tour seems best suited for those who want a laid-back adventure that takes in the stunning landscape without the need for prior experience.
Key Points
- No experience necessary, making it accessible for first-timers.
- Professional guides provide personalized instruction and ensure safety.
- Stunning scenery with views of the Appalachian Mountains and Kanawha Falls.
- Group size capped at 12, offering a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
- Great for those who want a scenic, guided water adventure without the hassle of planning every detail.
The Experience: What to Expect on the Water
This tour kicks off at Kanawha Falls, a beautiful spot that sets the perfect backdrop for your adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide—likely Shannon or Sterling—who will walk you through the basics. Don’t worry if you’ve never paddled before; the instruction is personalized to help you feel comfortable on your board or kayak, covering everything from paddling technique to safety.
The actual paddling part lasts about two hours, which gives you enough time to soak in the views without feeling rushed. Expect to glide along calm waters, with the Appalachians looming majestically on the horizon and waterfalls adding a splash of drama to the scenery. The water is generally flat and gentle, ideal for beginners or those simply looking to relax.
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The Guides and Their Impact
One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable and friendly guides. One reviewer mentioned Sterling as “fantastic, patient, knowledgeable, and great with kids,” which hints at the welcoming atmosphere. Another review raved about John, describing him as “informative, friendly, talkative, and funny,” making the experience both fun and educational. These guides seem to genuinely enjoy sharing their local knowledge and making everyone feel at ease, which can make all the difference for newcomers.
Equipment and Comfort
All you need to bring is bottled water and snacks, as these aren’t included. The tour fee covers the paddleboard or flatwater kayak, paddle, and a PFD (life jacket), so you can focus on enjoying the scenery. The equipment is described as “nice,” and the group is limited to 12 people, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can get personalized attention.
The Scenery and Why It Matters
What makes this tour stand out is the setting. You’ll paddle past Kanawha Falls, a must-see for anyone exploring the area. The views of the majestic mountains, the charming town in the distance, and the waterfall itself make for a truly picturesque backdrop. Several reviews mention how stunning the scenery is—one even called it “truly beautiful,” with cascading waterfalls and winding rivers creating a captivating environment.
Many reviewers also noted how the guides enhance the experience by pointing out interesting sights and sharing fun facts. One described the opportunity to paddle under a waterfall, which sounds like a special highlight. Whether you’re admiring the landscape or just soaking in the quiet of the river, this tour offers a peaceful yet invigorating way to connect with nature.
Practical Details: How the Tour Works
The tour lasts around two hours, making it a manageable outing for most travelers. It starts at Kanawha Falls and ends back at the same spot, so no transportation hassles are involved. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received immediately upon booking—a practical point for planning.
Given the price point of $65 per person, the value seems quite good, especially considering the personalized instruction and the scenic beauty. Keep in mind that bookings are made on average 16 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re set on experiencing this.
Cancellation and Weather Considerations
Flexibility is a plus—if weather conditions aren’t favorable, you may be rescheduled or receive a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours prior. However, if you cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled time, refunds aren’t available, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits beginners or those looking for a relaxed water outing with stunning views. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, or friends who want an easygoing adventure without the pressure of advanced skills. Since children are mentioned as being great with guides, families with kids might also enjoy it, but check with the provider for age restrictions or safety considerations.
If you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping whitewater or multi-day paddling trips, this isn’t the right fit, but for a peaceful, guided float with breathtaking scenery, it’s a winner.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For $65, this guided paddleboarding and kayaking tour offers a combination of beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and a hassle-free experience. The small group size and knowledgeable guides seem to make it a friendly, accessible way to explore the New River Gorge’s waterways.
Whether you’re new to paddling or just want a relaxing way to see some of West Virginia’s natural beauty, this tour checks many boxes. The reviews suggest that the guides really elevate the experience, making it memorable and enjoyable. Plus, the opportunity to paddle beneath waterfalls and soak in mountain views makes it a distinctive outing.
If you’re after a straightforward, scenic adventure with friendly guides and a flexible booking policy, this tour is worth considering. It delivers a peaceful yet fun way to connect with the outdoors, ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty without the fuss.
New River Gorge Guided Paddleboarding and Kayaking
“We had so much fun at the Kanawha Falls! Booking on TripAdvisor was a little misleading because it didn't give us the option to select paddleboards…”
FAQ
Do I need experience to join this tour?
No, no experience is necessary. The guides will provide personalized instruction to help you feel comfortable on your paddleboard or kayak.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a paddleboard or flatwater kayak, paddle, and a PFD (life jacket). You’ll need to bring your own bottled water and snacks.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Kanawha Falls and returns to the same spot at the end of the roughly two-hour adventure.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled for poor weather. If you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, you get a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention kids having a good time with guides, but it’s best to check with the provider for specific age restrictions or safety advice.
How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers tend to book about 16 days ahead, so plan accordingly if you want to secure a spot.
Is there any equipment I should bring?
Just bottled water and snacks, as these are not included. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activity, and bring sun protection if needed.
What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect beautiful mountain views, waterfalls, winding rivers, and the charming town of Kanawha Falls in the distance.
In all, this guided paddleboarding and kayaking tour offers a calm, scenic way to experience West Virginia’s natural beauty, guided by friendly experts who know the area well. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of planning every detail, especially if you’re new to paddling or just looking for a peaceful escape on the water.