New River Expedition 2026
The New River Expedition is an adventure to celebrate the New River and the Appalachian communities along it. An expedition team of four paddlers will journey from the headwaters in North Carolina through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. Along the way, they will experience the natural communities that define this iconic landscape, engage with the communities of the New River, and prepare the experience to be shared with the public.
The Expedition will support the growth of the New River Water Trail by identifying gaps in recreation infrastructure, highlighting areas that deserve more effective protection, and documenting locations that need the attention of NRC clean-up crews. The Expedition will also develop and share media content that will highlight the New River and a premier recreation experience. The Expedition will primarily be self-supported, with primitive camping being the most common overnight accommodation with a one-person support team assisting with shuttling, trip planning and logistics.
Flowing 360 miles through the heart of the southern Appalachians, the New River Water Trail is a trail for paddlers to experience the beauty of America’s oldest river and connect with communities that thrive along its banks. Highlighting the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural history of the New River, the water trail is an adventure from the headwaters on the North and South Fork in North Carolina, through the mountains of Virginia, to the New River’s confluence with the Gauley River in West Virginia.
The New River Conservancy is leading the New River Water Trail three-state action plan which seeks to connect Appalachian communities in North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia, build a green-economic engine, and increase the opportunity for community-led conservation through trail development. Completion of the project will help to strengthen rural economies, protect important natural communities of the river, and preserve land for improved access, overnight stays and scenic quality.
Looking for a way to be involved in the Expedition? Our members and supporters provide essentials to make the New River Expedition great!
A special NRX sticker will be coming your way, plus exclusive offers just for you!
Your donation can go towards:
- Food & lodging
- Gas for our support vehicle
- Gear & safety equipment
- Training
- Campsite & access development
- Technical support
- Expedition outreach & development
Ready to support the NRX? Click on the link and select “New River Expedition Individual” Thank you!
Follow along on your favorite platform as we build out our team, gather our gear and get this party started.
Want to join our team?
Apply here