West Virginia is a popular state in which to go white-water rafting, and the state offers runs for everyone, from beginners on their first trip to those with lots of experience. As an adventure sport, white-water rafting isn't without danger, but if you follow directions and bring the right supplies, you shouldn't have reason to worry. Before your trip, you'll want to contact one of the state's commercial outfitters. They will supply you with all the equipment you need--except for clothing, shoes and sunscreen--and with guides who can help make that first run through the rapids a safe, exciting one.
History
White-water rafting, whether you're a novice or river rat, has changed a lot since its beginning.
In the early days, says one West Virginia site dedicated to the sport, "some outfitters operated out of tents or small trailers near the put-in sites." At the end of the half- or full-day trip, guests headed home or to hotels far from the river.
Now, outfitters have modern facilities and offer excursions such as commentary and views of old mining towns. You even can combine your rafting trip with a rock-climbing or biking adventure.
Outfitters offer everything from half-day trips to multiday ones. And when you're done for the day, you'll have access to showers and picnic shelters at put-in sites, or can head to a nearby campground, hotel or bed and breakfast.
Safety
Safety, obviously, is tantamount when you're rushing down a raging river.
Although "there is an element of risk," says West Virginia Whitewater's site, the state's "commercial outfitters follow strict safety precautions and have an exemplary record of safety on the water. Serious incidents are extremely rare."
You don't need prior experience to raft, although it is recommended for some rivers or sections of rivers. Some outfitters and certain trips do have age requirements, however, so check with your outfitter if you're bringing children or teens.
The most important thing to remember: follow your guide's instruction, says the site. Guides are trained and have, of course, done this before--some of them hundreds of times.
What to Pack
Bring a swimsuit, of course, says North American River Runners Inc., one of the older outfitters in the state. In the summer, also bring a T-shirt, shorts and sunscreen. Wear old sneakers or sandals with a heel strap during any season, North American says. No flip-flops allowed; you'll just lose them in the river.
In the spring or fall, you'll need hats, gloves and socks made of wool or another synthetic material. "Be prepared to wear a wetsuit," North American says.
If you're taking a multiday trip, you may want to bring multiples of some items. And if you're camping before or after your trip, of course, you'll need to bring all your camp gear, although some places do rent tents.
Prevention/Solution
Before your first trip, you may be worried about falling out of the boat. Although this is possible, guides will tell you how to prevent it and also what you should do if you find yourself in the water.
You mighty simply be apprehensive in general. Youl probably will feel better if you're prepared, so ask your chosen outfitter or guide company specifics on what to bring and any other questions you have in advance of the trip.
If you have a friend or family member who has gone rafting before, it might be a good idea to bring her with you. However, don't let a friend's advice substitute for listening to the guides. And remember that rafting can be a good bonding experience, so if you're rafting with people you have never met, strike up a conversation rather than speaking only to your friends or family.
The Rating System
Rapids are rated based on difficulty, from Class I to class VI. According to West Virginia Whitewater's site, "Novices can run Class I to II stretches without a guide, while Class III to V segments require real paddling skill and/or the kind of leadership provided by professional outfitters."
Class VI rapids are extremely dangerous and are not run commercially, the site says.
The bottom line: if you're a beginner, start with a Class I or II run. Hire a guide so you learn how to do it the right way, unless you're traveling with friends who are much more experienced and you feel safe allowing them to show you the ropes. Once you get more comfortable, you can advance to the faster, rougher waters.
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