New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour

Discover the New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour

The New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour offers a 3-hour adventure in West Virginia’s famous national park, with a focus on fun, scenic exploration, and family-friendly activities. Priced at $435 per group (up to four people), this private tour provides a personalized experience on some of the most muddy and rugged terrain in the area. Bookings are typically made about 31 days in advance, making it a popular choice for those planning their trip ahead.

The tour departs from Minden, specifically at New River ATV, 1631 Mountain Top Rd, and includes top-of-the-line UTVs operated by professional guides. It’s designed to suit families with children aged 12 and up, who are eager to explore the park’s natural beauty while enjoying an exciting ride. With beverages provided, there’s no need to worry about staying hydrated during this outdoor adventure.

While the price and duration make it a substantial outing, the reviews highlight the outstanding scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the fun of tackling diverse trails. This experience is perfect for those looking to combine adventure with family time in a stunning setting.

Key Points

• Private 3-hour UTV tour in New River Gorge National Park
• Suitable for families with kids aged 12+
• Up to 4 people per UTV, with professional guides
• Beverages provided to stay refreshed
• Booking ahead is recommended, with most trips booked about a month in advance
• Cancellations are non-refundable, but weather-related cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled

The Starting Point at New River ATV in Minden

This tour begins at New River ATV, located at 1631 Mountain Top Rd in Minden, WV. The meeting process is straightforward: guests meet at the designated time, sign a rental agreement and liability waiver, and are then fitted with helmets. The initial orientation covers operating procedures, trail etiquette, and safety measures, ensuring everyone feels prepared before setting off.

The start location provides convenient access and space for vehicle prep, making it simple for families to gather and get ready for their off-road adventure. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistical planning easy.

The UTV Fleet and Trail Limits

The top-of-the-line UTVs used in this tour are built to handle most types of terrain in the park, offering a smooth ride even on muddy and rugged trails. Each vehicle can hold up to four passengers, allowing families or small groups to ride together comfortably.

With over 100 miles of trails, the guides select routes that match the group’s skill level, whether they are beginners or more experienced riders. The most experienced guides ensure safety and fun, providing a tailored experience that emphasizes scenic views and trail variety.

Trail Experience and Scenic Highlights

During the approximately 2 hours on the trail, visitors explore some of the most scenic parts of New River Gorge. The trails showcase natural beauty, with viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the gorge and its river. The varied terrain includes mud, rocks, and woods, making each ride an engaging challenge.

Rain or shine, the trails remain accessible, and the guides excel at navigating wet conditions, as evidenced by reviews praising the wet, muddy trail experience. Expect to get a little muddy, which adds to the adventure and fun of the trip.

Safety and Experience Level Requirements

All drivers must be at least 25 years old with a valid US driver’s license. Passengers need to be at least 12 years old. Before hitting the trails, guests are outfitted with helmets and receive an orientation that covers safe operation and trail etiquette.

The guides are praised for their friendly, professional approach, making even those with no prior side-by-side experience feel comfortable and confident on the ride. This focus on safety and guidance is a key strength of the tour.

The Guide Team and Personal Touch

Guides like Hanna, Esther, and Sam are noted for their knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive service. They ensure that the ride is both fun and safe, providing clear instructions and sharing insights about the surrounding natural environment.

Guests mention that guides like Brian and others contribute significantly to the personalized experience, making the trip memorable and enjoyable. The professional staff extends to the support team handling waivers and logistics, contributing to a smooth experience from start to finish.

Handling Wet and Muddy Conditions

The tour is adaptable to wet weather, with guides expertly navigating muddy and slick trails. Rainy days can even enhance the experience, making the terrain more challenging and the scenery more dramatic. The guides excel at managing wet conditions, ensuring safety while maintaining a fun-filled ride.

Guests have described the mud as part of the adventure, and the top-tier UTVs are well equipped for such conditions, letting riders enjoy the thrill of off-road exploration regardless of weather.

Family-Friendly Adventure and Trail Suitability

Designed for families with children aged 12 and up, this tour balances adventure and accessibility. The small group size and private booking mean a more intimate experience, with guides tailoring routes to the group’s comfort level.

The trails offer a mix of beginner to expert terrain, but the focus remains on fun and safety. The ability to bring along young teens makes it an attractive option for family outings, especially those seeking a memorable outdoor activity in a beautiful setting.

Booking, Pricing, and Cancellation Details

The $435 fee covers the entire group, making it a cost-effective family adventure for up to four participants. Since most bookings are made about 31 days in advance, early planning is advised, especially during peak seasons.

This tour is non-refundable once booked, emphasizing the importance of confirming your plans. However, if poor weather leads to cancellation, a full refund or rescheduling is offered, ensuring flexibility in unpredictable conditions.

Final Thoughts on the New River Gorge UTV Tour

The New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour combines adventure, scenic beauty, and safety in one package. The professional guides, well-maintained UTVs, and varied trails make it a standout choice for families wanting to enjoy West Virginia’s natural wonders.

While the price point might be on the higher side, the personalized, private experience and positive reviews suggest it delivers solid value. This tour is most suited for those with kids aged 12+ who seek a fun, scenic, and active outdoor experience in a stunning national park.

For adventurous families eager to explore the diverse terrain of New River Gorge—and who don’t mind getting a little muddy—this UTV tour offers a memorable way to experience one of America’s most beautiful natural areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, children need to be at least 12 years old to participate as passengers.

Do I need prior experience to ride the UTVs?
No, guides provide an orientation, and even those with no prior experience feel comfortable on the ride.

What should I wear for the tour?
It’s advisable to wear comfortable outdoor clothing, and expect to get muddy, especially in wet conditions.

Are beverages provided during the trip?
Yes, drinks are included to keep everyone refreshed throughout the adventure.

What is the group size?
Each UTV holds up to four people, and the tour is private for your group only.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you receive a full refund or can reschedule.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with about 2 hours on the trail.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $435 per group, regardless of the number of riders within the group.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at New River ATV, 1631 Mountain Top Rd, Minden, WV.

Is this tour recommended?
Absolutely, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 41 reviews and 100% recommendation, it’s a highly regarded way to explore New River Gorge.