North American River Runners

At NARR, you’re in the hands of great, lively guides — characters, every one — who’re knowledgeable about rafting and about the area, and who make you feel basically ‘safe’ and ‘in control’ [within reason, especially on the Upper Gauley River] throughout the river run. They take great care of people from all experience levels and will make crystal clear when things can be lighthearted or when you should pay serious attention and act immediately. NARR’s buses are a bit ancient and decrepit, but they make it to and from the river; and the rest of the gear is what you’d expect: worn, but in great shape. Most of the river companies stop for lunch when running the Upper Gauley, and NARR (and the rest of the companies that make up ACE Adventure Center’s stable) has a large area about two-​thirds of the way through, with great views of boats going over Sweet’s Falls; the area has several covered platforms (including one with simple bathrooms) and lots of large riverside rocks from which to watch the action on the river. After the run — and a harrowing, twisting ride up from the river, along steep hillside dirt roads, to the main roads in one of the previously mentioned decrepit buses — the gear is turned in and within an hour or so the video of your run is shown outside at the main building, turning into a goodbye party with your guides. It’s a great time from start to finish.