What a long strange trip (ooops!) winter it’s been!”

Winter in New River Gorge, West Virginia

Taking this line from a long ago Grateful Dead song is a fitting description for this winter. Snow, snow and more snow! All throughout the Eastern United States, the winter was long and hard. Records were broken almost everywhere. Growing up in West Virginia in the 1960′s was great fun. Lots of snow for sledding and snowball fights. Chains on the bus and off to school we went. No snow days here. Our school had a nice steep hill behind it. The kids who lived close would bring sleds to school and at recess we went to the top and blasted down. Way Fun!! Even then, we did not have this much snow. Fayetteville, a cool river town, where we live and work, had over 120 inches (10 feet).

Finally, Spring is here. Days are warmer, daffodils are blooming and the rafts have been uncovered. Daylight savings time has kicked in, so we are enjoying the extra sunshine. With the warmer temps, the snow in the headwaters has been melting providing big water in the New and Gauley River Gorges. Waves of 8 to 9 feet in height are being seen. This is big fun!

Each winter, we do a variety of travel shows to let people know what we have to offer here in New River Country. Although known for our whitewater rafting, there are a variety of outdoor activities to try while you are here. This year we were in Washington, DC, New York City, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Indianapolis. Lots of travel but great to see so many people interested in the outdoors.

As we all know, 2009 was a tough year . The economy was down across the country. Many people did not travel or vacation due to the tight conditions. At the shows this year, it was interesting to listen to people planning for 2010. Many asked, “If I come to West Virginia, what can I do for 3 to 4 days.” This is a different tone when compared to last year when they said, “I’ll take your brochure and look at it.” Folks want to travel to get a break from work and every day stress.

Fayette Station Rapid New River Gorge West Virginia

When you think of that long weekend, West Virginia is the place for that kind of trip. Most of you live within a days drive to the Mountain State. Much less expensive than driving to Disney World. You might ask, “What is there to do in West Virginia?” Let me give you some things to think about.

Motorcycle Touring in West Virginia

Honey in the Rock Outdoor Drama

Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, ATV riding, state and national parks, underground caverns, motorcycle touring, bird watching and outdoor dramas, just to name a few. Whether you are a gung ho thrillseeker or looking for  a lazy day, it is here in West Virginia.

“Try it, you might like it!”