Five Southeast Rafting Classics

Wednesday, en route to West Virginia, New River.

You had a day to rest in the Smokies and a good night's sleep, so let's hit it. Pull on those dry baggies, a T-shirt, and some sandals, unwrap a Moon Pie, and down an RC Cola (you're in the South remember) and head east on Highway 76 and Interstate 85 to Charlotte. When you hit West Virginia, you will find yourself in the midst of the Appalachians. Take Highway 19 out of Beckley through the mountains to Hawk's Nest State Park. Feed your face in the lodge's dining room and take a short evening hike on the park's scenic trails to get the blood flowing back to your butt. Tumble into bed with a full belly and dreams of the New River.

Thursday, New River.

The New River offers both exciting whitewater and spectacular scenery. This river pounds through the New River Gorge, a 1000-foot deep canyon of intensely beautiful wilderness and the oldest river in North America. You'll get a glimpse of the New River Bridge, the longest arch bridge in the world. The Lower New has five Class V runs: the Keeney's, Double Z, Greyhound Bus Stopper, Miller's Folly, and Fayette Station. This river is a step above the two you've rafted so far and you'll know it about the time you hit the Keeney's, a turbulent drop that is often obscured by veils of mist rising from the boiling water.

The next river is just down the road so head back to the Hawk's Nest where you can relive the day's adventures in front of the lodge's blazing stone fireplace. Tomorrow is the headliner: the Upper Gauley.