O.C.T. New River Gorge in WV July 20 and 21 during quarterly gathering

[bambam]

My role this time is simply to coordinate trips on the New River Gorge on Saturday and Sunday, July 20 and 21. I expect to see folks chime in regarding easier trips further upstream. Please start separate threads.

I view this section of river to be a solid class III / IV big water run. It's a significant step up from the Lower Yough in PA.

I will be at Ray's Campground Friday and Saturday nights. On Saturday we'll meet at the picnic tables behind the office at ten a.m. We'll meet at nine a.m. on Sunday. If you are driving there on Saturday morning then try to allow time to at least throw camping gear out of the car so you'll be useful for shuttles.

Where? Ray’s is in Hico (pronounced HIGHcoh) near the intersection of routes 60 and 19 which is about five miles north of where the New goes under route 19. Head west very briefly on 60 and turn right on Sunday Road. Sunday Road is narrow so take it easy. Ray’s is about a mile on the left. 304-658-4386. Reservations are not required for tent sites. Some tent sites are now reservable but it looks like they are already booked. At last count it was $10 per person per night. Electric sites are $10 extra. Dogs must be leashed. Please respect quiet hours.

In past years they have accepted cash, check, and all major credit cards. I’ll guess they prefer cash so bring some bills.

GPS user note, I love that technology, trust it blindly if you wish. I recommend at least glancing at a map or two before you head out. It can go a bit bonkers out there. In recent years phone coverage in camp has been at least good enough to check river levels.

[bnnicely]

Good afternoon
I am coming the new river valley Fri and wish to do a novice/intermediate run on the new. Solid class 3 but I am not wanting too much stress this trip...what are the options for runs.
Mostly kayak lower James all the time
Is there a lap that ends at surprise ?
Feeling out..

Ben Nicely

[bambam]

Hi Ben.

I tried to post a reply yesterday but am not seeing it today. Likely operator error on my part.

Are you looking for a Friday paddle? I haven't seen any chatter about that. I think Raymond is eyeing the Surprise Rapid section on Saturday which might be what you are looking for. Dunno about his plans for Sunday.

Cheers,

Ken

[Alicia]

Here is info on the upper New trips:
viewtopic.php?f=8&t=17372

And here is general info for the weekend, including what to bring for the Sat. potluck (please)!
viewtopic.php?f=8&t=17371

[Savanna K]

I am interested in paddling the Gorge on Friday. Unfortunately can’t be there the rest of the weekend.

[bambam]

Hi Savanna. Sorry to miss you. I hope you find some takers.

Cheers,

Ken