The Calm Before the Rapids

As the sun peeked over the horizon, casting a golden hue over the New River Gorge, I found myself standing at the edge of an adventure that promised to be both serene and exhilarating. The New River Gorge, with its rugged beauty and storied history, was calling out to me, and I was more than ready to answer. My companions and I, a group of thrill-seekers always on the hunt for the next adrenaline rush, were about to embark on a whitewater rafting journey that would take us through both the upper and lower sections of the New River.

Our guide for the day, Banjo, was a local legend. Having grown up on the river, his knowledge of the area was unparalleled. As we set off on the upper New River, Banjo regaled us with tales of the river’s past, from its coal mining days to the wildlife that now calls it home. The upper section was a gentle introduction, with mostly lower class rapids that allowed us to float leisurely and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The towering cliffs and lush forests were a sight to behold, and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead was a reminder of the untouched wilderness we were navigating.

The morning passed in a blissful haze of laughter and camaraderie, punctuated by the occasional splash of cold river water. We stopped for a riverside lunch, where we had the chance to jump off some of the large rocks and swim in the refreshing waters. It was a peaceful interlude, a moment to catch our breath before the real adventure began.

Into the Heart of the Rapids

The following day, the river’s mood shifted. The lower New River awaited us, with its promise of more intense rapids and heart-pounding excitement. My mother, having enjoyed the tranquility of the previous day, decided to sit this one out, and my sister took her place in the raft. Our guide for the day, Nick, was every bit as skilled as Banjo, and he was eager to give us the adventure we craved.

The rapids came fast and furious, each one a thrilling challenge that tested our teamwork and resolve. Nick expertly guided us through the tumultuous waters, his calm demeanor and clear instructions ensuring our safety at every turn. We tackled several class V rapids, the adrenaline coursing through our veins as we navigated the churning waters. At one point, Nick even took us down a drop backwards, a daring maneuver that left us all breathless and exhilarated.

Lunch was a welcome respite, a chance to rest and refuel on a large rock shaded by a majestic sycamore. The camaraderie among our group was palpable, each of us sharing stories of our favorite rapids and the moments that had left us in awe. We even had the opportunity to swim through one of the safer rapids, a thrilling experience that added another layer of excitement to our day.

A River of Memories

As we made our way back to the base camp, the sun dipping low in the sky, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we had just undertaken. The New River Gorge had delivered on its promise of adventure, offering both the tranquility of its upper reaches and the heart-pounding excitement of its lower rapids. Our guides, Banjo and Nick, had been exceptional, their passion for the river and their commitment to our safety and enjoyment evident in every moment.

The owner of the company, who had driven us to and from the river, had been a constant presence, ensuring that our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. His involvement, along with the personal touch of our guides, made us feel like more than just another group of tourists. We were part of a community, welcomed into the fold by those who knew the river best.

As I packed up my gear and prepared to leave the New River Gorge, I knew that this adventure would stay with me long after I returned home. The memories of the rapids, the laughter shared with friends, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the gorge would linger in my mind, a reminder of the thrill of the unknown and the joy of discovery. Until the next adventure, the New River Gorge would hold a special place in my heart, a testament to the power of nature and the spirit of adventure.