River Expeditions in West Virginia is an action-packed vacation destination for families and on Day 2 of our vacation we certainly packed in the action and excitement. Everything was prearranged for us through River Expeditions and we started early and ended late, getting in lots of exercise and enjoying every minute of our outdoor adventure.
We began our morning with our own personal guide and personal bus that took us to the Upper River Stone Cliff area to begin our 4-6 hour rafting adventure. Although we always seem to come off looking like high adventure seekers none of us had any previous experience in rapids or even rafting in a strong current so it was hard to wipe the smiles off of our faces as we were all full of excited anticipation for the day ahead! Before you see my high adventure video and get too worried there are a few things I should share…… This rafting adventure is suitable for kids, teens and adults, as the Upper River adventure is for those with no experience (all of us!) and anyone else that wants to give river rafting a try as a beginner. The Lower River adventure is for the true adventure seeker who want a serious white water rafting experience.
The Upper River had a nice current, a few rapids, and plenty of spots where you can stop and swim. My husband and daughter went in a double inflatable (they call them “duckies”) while I braved my own and so did my teenage son. We all wore ultra light weight helmets and life jackets, which were provided by River Expeditions, and we only had to show up with sunscreen and our swimsuits for this all day adventure. They even bring a cooler on a raft so we can all enjoy lunch on the river bank.
While spending the day on the water, the kids got to jump off HUGE boulders into the river and even turned the rafts upside down to jump on the top and play “duckie wars”. Wondering what that is? (don’t worry, when they told us we’d play “duckie wars” I was wondering too) Well, you turn your raft upside down, get on top of it while it’s still in the water and see who can knock the other person off. It was a BLAST!!! There’s nothing like shrieks and squeals of fun from the kids! Fortunately, we had beautiful weather and the view was amazing and breathtaking as we rafted our way down the river with all it’s twists and turns. Our guide even stopped and pointed out a Bald Eagle’s nest on the cliff side!
That night after working up an appetite on the water, we enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the locally recommended Pies and Pints Pizzeria. When traveling out of town “do as the locals do” is what I always say! It’s a sure way to eat good food and enjoy the culture of the area you’re visiting. The food was great and the atmosphere was fun and we were certainly hungry! After all, who doesn’t like pizza and an ice cold drink, right! The wings we had for an appetizer weren’t your typical so I was glad to see the kids try something new…. and LIKE it! (I admit I have some picky eater in my crew)
Heading back to our luxury cabin, we were able to relax in our personal hot tub right on our own back porch before heading off to bed. Wow, what a day! River Expeditions has so much to offer. We had already done zip lining and water rafting and tomorrow was the big day to try out Hard Rock Climbing Services and go on the Bridge Walk over the Gorge!! Am I really planning to walk on a small cat walk 850 Feet above a gorge????
If you missed day #1 of our River Expeditions article go here.
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