Rafting through the Cheat Canyon

Rafting the Cheat Canyon Details continued...
Your day on Class III-IV+ Whitewater

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! But you won't want to - Decision gets the excitment going and you'll find you want more!

After that you will be entering the Cheat Canyon and escape is well nigh impossible through rhododendron maze that climb up the sides of the gorge. The Cheat drops fifty feet per mile through the canyon, 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. Check out a Cheat Canyon topo map of the river and the rapids.

By time you reach the Jenkinsburg bridge you will be ready for the cold refreshments that our bus driver has delivered. Lunch typically eaten riverside although if the weather is too cold, the Trip Leader may opt to eat back at the base. Lunch consists of a deli style picnic with fresh fruit and cookies to top it off. If you are vegetarian, you're in luck. Just prepare your sandwich as you'd like, leaving the meat off and enjoying the veggies. Peanut butter and jelly is always an option. If you have special diet needs and we are unable to accomodate them, you are welcome to bring your own food and we'll keep it dry for you!

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 River, remember that the minimum age is 16, 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.

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