Unplug, Paddle & Play—The Ultimate Family Adventure

The Upper New River is known for her fun and splashy rapids, perfect for little ones to experience their first rafting trip. While the downstream section is boulder-strewn, with dramatic drops, waves, and hydraulics, the Upper New River provides calmer waters for the littlest rafters or those who are searching for a more relaxing day on the river.

Transportation is covered from the resort to the river and back again. We’ll also provide all your rafting equipment (helmet, personal flotation device or PFD, paddle, and boat) and lunch and dinner on the first day of the trip and breakfast and lunch on the second.

A dry bag is provided for each person.

Bring any medication you need, sunscreen, sunglasses, and dry clothes to change into at night and the following morning. Depending on the time of year and the weather, you may also want a synthetic layer. If necessary, wetsuits and splash jackets are available for rent. Call us to book those, too.

You'll need to bring all camping gear including a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You'll be provided with a checklist when you book so you'll know what is required and what is recommended for you to bring.

This is an Overnight Trip.
Depending on the day’s water level, you’ll spend between 4-6 hours on the water per day, plus shuttle time to and from the river. Trip length and intensity vary based on water levels, which change throughout the season.

We typically take inflatable kayaks on the Upper New. They are inflatable two-person rafts shaped like kayaks. With an inflatable kayak, you’ll get to experience a more personal whitewater rafting challenge on a craft that’s stable, fun, and easy to maneuver. Our inflatable kayaks are self-bailing, which means water that splashes in will drain out on its own. Our standard, 16-foot rafts are available upon request or when the water is high. These comfortably seat eight rafters and one river guide. River guides will be either in rafts or in inflatable kayaks to lead the pack, and they’re experts at working with beginner rafters and families with small children. Learn more about our guides.

The minimum age for this trip is 6 years old. Our PFDs have a maximum chest capacity of 56 inches. All adventurers on the trip should be able to swim.

Custom quotes are available for groups of over 15. Call us to learn more!

Our trip leaders and river guides will talk through specific guidelines and requirements on-site before you head for the water.

We use a groover and set up a privacy tent.

What's a groover, you may ask? A groover is a portable toilet designed for the river. It's watertight, easy to set up, and has a funny name that is derived from its early days of river use when the old style used would leave "grooves" on users' legs. Now, we use toilet seats, so you don't have to worry about that little detail.

110 liter or approx 16" Diameter x 33" Height (See Example)