Experiences.com: Many people may not know enough to judge or care about the quality of your equipment. Tell us about your equipment and why it matters.
At ACE Adventure Resort, our equipment is top of the line. Our whitewater rafting trips have three raft sizes available. A 16-foot eight person raft. A 14-foot six person raft. And a 12-foot four-man raft. Different rafts sizes are more appropriate on certain trips and our guides and adventure consultants make sure you are on the right trip for your skill level. ACE pioneered the 14-foot raft self-bailing raft. It is our most popular choice and maximizes the fun and gives the guides an ease of control.
What are the project dates for ACE Adventure Resort whitewater rafting season?
Traditionally, our season runs from April to October on the New and Gauley Rivers. We could run trips year-round if the weather would cooperate. There is no hard and fast rule, though. If guests want to raft we will try to make it happen. For example, ACE had this year’s first commercial trip on the New River on March 5. There was still snow on the ground but the guests were ecstatic.
Experiences.com: What class rapids does your company run?
On the New and Gauley Rivers, the classes of rapids range from a mild Class I to an extreme Class V.
Experiences.com: Describe your most popular family rafting experience?
Our Upper New River trip is the most common family adventure that we offer. The minimum age on this trip is 6-years old and is a fun day of Class 1-3 rapids. We offer this trip in our Classic 16-foot rafts and inflatable kayaks called duckies. This trip is offered in a full-day format with a hot-grilled lunch and is fun for kids and their parents.
Experiences.com: Describe your most challenging rafting experience.
The Upper Gauley River is legendary. It is not nicknamed “The Beast of the East” for nothing. As the Summersville Dam releases thousands of gallons of fresh whitewater, the Upper Gauley delivers the trip of a lifetime. Non-stop action and Class V rapids make this trip truly world class. High intensity levels with over 60 rapids ranging from Class III-V+ make this a must for the serious adventure junkie.
Experiences.com: What water sports or outdoor activities do you offer?
ACE Adventure Resort is West Virginia’s largest adventure resort featuring whitewater rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers, rock climbing and kayak instruction, on-site stables, mountain bike rentals and tours, zip-line canopy tour, paintball deluxe lodging, a trail system throughout our 1500-acres connecting with the New River Gorge National River, southern West Virginia’s largest campground, an Outfitter’s Shop, and a full complement of corporate training/leadership development programs utilizing an Alpine Tower, high and low initiatives, and mud obstacle course.
Photo credit: ACE Adventure Resort
Experiences.com: Do you offer any unique adventures, or package deals?
We have a plethora of packages for any guest with any interest. Our packages can include your camping, meals and every activity we offer. ACE’s Adventure Consultants can take whatever activities you want and package them for you. Let us do all of the work so you can truly enjoy your vacation.
Our most unique adventure is our Zipline Canopy Tour. A series of zips from cliff-side launches and dismounts make this an unforgettable adventure. At ACE, our tour utilizes a gravity breaking system that allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery as you speed 100-feet above the New River Gorge.
ACE was featured on the Travel Channel as North America’s Largest Adventure Resort because we have something for everyone.
Experiences.com: Describe a particular memorable rafting experience.
Every guest at ACE Adventure Resort would have a different answer. A family might want a more leisurely trip for their photo album while Gauley guests crave the non-stop action of the Class V+ rapids. At ACE, we are in the business of making memories and work to make sure every guest gets their ideal vacation.
Experiences.com: What are some favorite vistas or views on your routes?
All of our whitewater rafting trips have amazing views in the New River Gorge and Gauley River canyon. On the New River, the most exciting and picturesque is our private takeout. It is right under the New River Gorge Bridge and gives an amazing view of the scope and splendor of the bridge.
On the Gauley River, our lunch spot is located at Sweet’s Falls, a 14-foot waterfall that is the premiere site on the Gauley River. Eating lunch comes with drama as you watch boat after boat go over the falls, testing the raft guide’s prowess. It’s thrilling.
ACE is located on 1,500-acres and every activity offers a different perspective on the true beauty of West Virginia. Our Zipline-Canopy tour gives you a bird’s-eye view. Our ATV’s let you get down and dirty and view some of the most luxurious tree cover in the area.
Experiences.com: I’m anxious or hesitant to experience rafting rapids. What can you say to help calm my fears or concerns?
Honestly, we have the best guides in the business. They really take an interest in their guests to determine the type of trip they want.
Experiences.com: Please describe your view on the experience of White Water Rafting.
ACE’s whitewater rafting is an experiential activity for everyone. For young and old, extreme to serene, ACE has a trip for every guest. From the quiet water on the Upper New River to the pulse pounding Upper Gauley River, ACE ‘s central location makes it convenient for everyone to get back to nature and have the experience of a lifetime.
Special thanks to Scott Perdue from ACE Adventure Resort for granting us this extended interview