“ We raft the entire Gauley River over two days , stopping riverside to sleep next to the rapids of Canyon Doors and eat a delicious menu crafted by our executive expedition chef ,” she says .
Whitewater rafting is far from the only exciting thing the New River Gorge has to offer . Its ziplines are also no small challenge to take on , as they offer high-speed , intense thrills . According to Adams , the Gravity Ziplines trip is particularly adrenaline-inducing , spanning longer than the New River Gorge Bridge and traveling more quickly than a vehicle .
Another popular event at the gorge is its BridgeWalk , which gives guests an opportunity to walk underneath the New River Gorge Bridge , not only causing a thrill due to the more than 800-foot height of the bridge but also offering guests an astonishing view of the park .
During this trip , guests are secured to steel cables by harnesses and given an extensive rundown of safety precautions prior to heading out for the bridge . Groups on all Adventures on the Gorge activities are led by experienced guides who are well-trained to handle these intense activities .
Adams says that during their time at the gorge , she sees guests step outside their comfort zone and find confidence through pushing themselves to the limit .
“ Our guests learn they can overcome fear and push themselves to have the experience of a lifetime ,” she says . “ There is a certain personal pride when our guests accomplish something they never imagined they could .”
With the state ’ s abundance of mountains and cliffs , many may choose rock climbing when searching for an adrenaline rush . One particularly thrill-inducing option is West Virginia ’ s Via Ferrata , located in Circleville .
The Via Ferrata is a mile long and ascends to heights of 290 feet , making it a challenging and oftentimes monumental journey . Previously available only to highly experienced climbers , the landmark is now accessible to a wide variety of participants , giving anyone who is willing a chance to face their fears and experience incredible views from the side of a mountain .
One of the most intimidating parts of the Via Ferrata for guests is its swinging bridge , suspended 150 feet high and spanning over 200 feet long . When crossing the bridge , adventurers must travel from one rock tip to the other on its wooden steps , navigating the unsteady terrain in open air .
“ I personally found the bridge to be the scariest part when I first climbed the Via , but most of our participants find it less intimidating than they expected ,” Bryan Williams , operations manager for NROCKS Outdoor Adventures , says . “ There is also an opportunity to exit the course immediately prior to the bridge if anyone decides it ’ s a bit more adventure than they want for the day .”
The route ’ s headwall , which is optional for guests , is also an unforgettable highlight of the journey . While it challenges participants ’ tolerance for extreme heights , it results in breathtaking panoramic views of the state .
“ The Via Ferrata is typically a good fit for anyone with an average or below average fear of heights that can hike several miles on a strenuous hiking trail with breaks as needed ,” Williams says . “ If someone is determined to do more preparation , then a visit to their local climbing gym is a great choice .”
While climbing the Via Ferrata is not a safe activity in itself , Williams says NROCKS Outdoor Adventures provides guests with the appropriate technical
Photo by Adventures on the Gorge . Photo by NROCKS Outdoor Adventures .
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