The number of rafting trips in West Virginia dropped almost 9% in 2009 vs. 2008, according to the state Division of Natural Resources. The industry saw a high-point in 1995, with 257,446 visitors, but has dropped ever since.
Bucking the trend, Adventures on the Gorge, a resort that features Mountain River Adventures, Rivermen, and Class VI River Runners, saw strong whitewater visits, increasing revenue 33% over 2009. The group hosted nearly 35% of West Virginia’s whitewater rafting guest.