THE CHEAT RIVER in Northern West Virginia is the largest non-dammed river system East of the Mississippi. Due to natural flows, water levels are at their highest during the spring. Call us to book your trip at 800-272-4141

Before there was a Gauley, or an Upper Yough, the Mighty Cheat Canyon was the place to go if you wanted extreme rafting. Nowadays, this forefather has fallen off the radar of many rafters, but only to their chagrin. Whether low or high water, the Cheat Canyon is a great & adrenalin filled experience. Eleven miles of white water with more rapids than all the river guides have names, wandering its way through the spectacular Canyon, is enough to impress even the most seasoned whitewater enthusiast.

Details of the day....Your day will begin at our outpost just north of Albright, West Virginia, on route 26. We will group up, and gear up, giving a quick safety talk that will be followed by a more in depth one from your guide once you hit the water. Once on the water we will hit the first rapid in about half a mile. Named Decision, it will be the last chance to turn back! After that we will be entering the Cheat Canyon and escape is well nigh impossible through rhododendron maze that climb up the sides of the gorge.

Details of Cheat Canyon...The Cheat drops fifty feet per mile, but this is deceptive, as there are many long calm pools to catch your breath in, as well as a plethora of Class III rapids to keep your pulse going. Never mind the many boat eating rapids such as Big Nasty, High Falls, Coliseum, Maze, Even Nastier, Fist, Tear Drop, and the half a dozen or so more, that litter this stretch of river. By time you reach the Jenkinsburg bridge you will be ready for the cold refreshments that our bus driver has brought with him. Lunch will most likely be eaten on the river; it consists of a deli style picnic with fresh fruit and cookies to top it off.

Once you get back to the outpost it is back into your dry clothes, and time to relax a little before you hit the road again. Have another cold beverage and swap some stories with your friends and end the day right.

When booking trips for the Cheat, remember that everyone in your group should be over sixteen, and prior experience isn't necessarily needed, but it is strongly recommended. Also to get the best levels for the Cheat book your trips for the spring, when the levels are at their highest. The Cheat is a natural flowing river, so we have to depend on mother nature to provide the water, as opposed to the man behind the control panel at the dam. Call us* to book your spot today! 800-272-4141

CLICK FOR DIRECTIONS

* This trip is operated by our sister company Appalachian Wildwaters

Class IV-V+
Experience Recommended
Trip Length
11 miles, 3 - 5 hours
Minimum Age
16 years old
Season
March - June

Trip Format
Regular Water Levels:
Guide in Every Raft

Low Water Level:
1 person inflatables, known as Duckies