Cheat River Provides 
Spectacular Spring Rafting

West Virginia is famous worldwide for its incredible whitewater rafting opportunities. That’s best illustrated by the number of the state’s rivers that are commercially rafted. A gem of a spring rafting trip awaits visitors to northern West Virginia’s Cheat River.

The Cheat is part of the largest free-flowing watershed in the eastern United States and the coming of spring rains and melting snow means the Cheat’s whitewater season has arrived.

High water levels mid-March through mid-to-late-June produce an exhilarating ride through 13 miles of the secluded and untamed Cheat Canyon. This portion of the Cheat River boasts more than 30 rapids of Class III or higher (whitewater rapids are typically classified by levels of difficulty ranging from I to V+).

Because the Cheat is free flowing, river levels in the isolated canyon fluctuate, making for a different thrill ride from day to day. That also means that the Cheat produces a great ride any time of the year – even during summer -- when rain is heavy or water levels are high. For those with families or those looking for a little calmer trip, the Cheat also offers the Cheat Narrows, a 10-mile section of great rapids (Class II-III), crystal clear water and plenty of swimming holes. The Cheat Narrows season begins in mid-March and continues throughout the summer.

Most Cheat River whitewater adventures begin near Albright, WV., which is about two hours south of Pittsburgh or three hours north of Charleston, WV.

Accommodations ranging from campgrounds, cabins, hotels and motels to bed and breakfast inns and luxury resorts are within a few minutes to an hour from Albright. Visitors will also find plenty of dining options in the area.

More information about West Virginia adventures and fun is available by calling Division of Tourism’s toll-free hotline, 1-800-CALL WVA. Callers can request a free travel guide, calendar of events and other information through the number or the Division’s web site, www.callwva.com.