Below are just a few of the commonly asked questions. Just click on the question to reveal the answer, If you have a question that is not answered below please give us a call and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have - 1-800-470-RAFT (7238)
What are the different "classifications" of rapids, and what should they mean to me?
Rapids are typically categorized from Class I-VII based on how difficult they are to navigate safely.
What is a raft?
A raft is an inflatable boat used to navigate the river. Modern rafts are made of durable, inflatable polymer tubes and aren't damaged by brushing by debris or rocks. Massive outer tubes provide shape and buoyancy while cross tubes provide stability. As many as 4-10 people may fit in a raft, depending on its size. Your guide will captain your whitewater trip from the back of the raft.
What is a duckie?
Duckies are small rafts designed for one or two paddlers. A duckie has inflated outer tubes just like a raft, is narrow like a kayak, and features an open cockpit like a canoe. Navigating duckies through gentle-to-moderate whitewater can be great fun and makes for a more one-on-one experience with the river.
How soon should I make a reservation?
Each rafting company has a limited number of reservations for its guided raft trips down the New and Gauley Rivers l- as regulated by the state of West Virgina - in order to avoid overcrowding. Therefore, is it extremely important to make your reservation as soon as possible. Also, our cabins and onsite accommodations fill up fast, so the sooner the better!
As soon as you know the dates you are interested in and the approximate number of people in your group, either choose a trip that's right for your group here, or call us at 1-800-470-RAFT (7238) and we'll assist you in choosing the perfect adventure.
Can I request a guide?
Yes, you can certainly request a specific guide. As space is limited, book early to make sure your request can be granted.
Is rafting safe?
Cantrell Ultimate Rafting maintains an excellent safety record, but rafting rapids rated Class III or higher, is not without risk. West Virginia law requires guides to meet specific first-aid and safety standards. Our rafting trips pack first-aid kits, river-rescue equipment, and appropriate emergency-communication devices. Personal floatation devices (PFDs) must be worn at all times on the river, and helmets are required on whitewater rapids classified Class III or higher. Safety procedures will be explained in detail prior to and during your trip.
Can you accommodate a medical condition I have?
When you make your reservation, please inform the reservationists of any medical condition, physical disability, or food allergy that may require special attention or treatment. Please inform us of any medical situations that may occur prior to your trip, as you will be in a wilderness area with limited medical supplies and evacuation is very time consuming.
When will my trip leave?
Your reservation form tells you the time your bus will depart from Cantrell Ultimate Rafting's base camp. Allow at least 30-to-45 minutes prior to departure to complete the release form, get your safety gear and paddles, change clothes, and meet your guide prior to your departure time.
How old should children be to go rafting?
Our minimum ages have been developed through years of experience, and our guidelines are intended to help the parent or guardian determine which whitewater trip would be best for certain ages. Since children and adults vary in maturity, size, and strength, it's difficult to set hard and fast rules.
Our recommended minimum ages:
What should I wear?
This is obviously a great question - and the most common question we encounter. What to wear greatly depends on the activity and the river you are going to raft. Here are some basic guidelines...
For family float trips on the New River:
For family float trips and other lazy river excursions, standard beachwear will work perfectly. Bring plenty of water resistant sunscreen and water socks if desired. Plenty of towels and a change of clothes for the ride back to the Hinton basecamp are a good idea.
For adventure rafting trips on the New River and Gauley River:
It is important to wear flexible, secure footwear (old sneakers or river sandals, but no boots). You will be required to help carry the raft out of the river and solid footwear is important while navigating rocks during your lunch break.
On the New River during summertime, comfortable swimwear, a cap or visor, and sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Running shorts worn over swimwear maximizes comfort for women. Do not wear cotton -- such as socks, sweatshirts, or blue jeans -- as it holds water and wicks warmth away from your body. Remember to keep a towel and set of dry clothes in your vehicle for after your day on the river. Dry socks and shoes feel particularly good after a day of being wet.
In spring and fall, wear wool or polypropylene and a windbreaker over the swimwear and wool or Polartec socks under sneakers or wetsuit booties. For cold and wet weather, wear a wetsuit and paddle jacket or polypropylene, pile fleece, and a windbreaker.
Note: the water released during Gauley season comes from the bottom of the Summersville Dam, and can be quite cold. We recommend wetsuits for all Gauley trips.
We rent wetsuits, booties and jackets: wetsuit $15.00 (half price for 12 and younger); booties $8.00; paddle jacket $5.00; or a full wetsuit package $25.00 (includes wetsuit, booties, and paddle jacket).
Will my trip be photographed or video taped?
Every effort is made to photograph each trip as it progresses through several predetermined rapids. Photographs are available for purchase at the gift shop after your arrival back at our Fayetteville basecamp.
We also offer pre-paid video service. If you or your group would like to have a video of your trip, make sure to tell your personal adventure specialist or include a video package with your online reservation.