Exploring the New River Gorge with a Side-by-Side Family Tour
Our review of the New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour offers a detailed look at this popular adventure in West Virginia. While we haven’t personally taken the ride, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and high ratings point to an experience that’s both exciting and family-friendly.
What we love about this tour is its perfect balance of guided safety and open adventure—you’re led by knowledgeable guides through some of the most beautiful and muddy parts of the park, with plenty of opportunities for fun and photo-worthy views. Plus, the fact that beverages are included means you can focus on the scenery without worrying about hydration.
A potential consideration: this is a private tour, which means the cost is $435 per group (up to four people). That might sound steep for some, but given the personalized experience, quality equipment, and expert guides, many will find it offers good value—especially for families or groups seeking a memorable outdoor outing.
This adventure suits those with a sense of curiosity, a love for off-road fun, and a taste for exploring one of the country’s most scenic parks in a way that’s both active and relaxed. It’s especially ideal for families with kids aged 12 and up, making it a great choice for a unique, bonding experience in nature.
This experience made our article of West Virginia’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do (With Prices).
Key Points
- Family-friendly adventure suitable for teens and older
- Guided tours ensure safety on challenging terrains
- Includes beverages to keep you refreshed
- Customizable for skill levels with trails ranging from beginner to expert
- Private experience offers personalized attention
- Over 100 miles of trails to explore in New River Gorge
👉 See our pick of the West Virginia’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do (With Prices)
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
The New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour promises a three-hour adventure, but the actual fun-packed trail time is approximately two hours. Starting at the New River ATV facility in Minden, you’ll meet your friendly guide who will introduce you to the UTVs and explain basic operation, safety procedures, and trail etiquette. This initial orientation is especially helpful if you’re new to riding side-by-sides, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.
The vehicles, capable of holding up to four people, are top-of-the-line and designed to tackle most terrain types—so expect a bit of mud, some rocky patches, and scenic overlooks. The guides are praised for their professionalism and extensive local knowledge, which means they don’t just drive—they also tell stories and point out interesting sights along the way.
The trail itself winds through the sprawling New River Gorge, with over 100 miles of varied terrain. The guides tailor the experience to your group’s skill level, whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a more challenging route that pushes your limits. During rainy days, the trails become especially muddy, adding to the thrill and fun factor, as one reviewer noted with excitement.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of stunning scenery and expert guidance. Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful the landscape is, with Shelby_R describing it as “so beautiful there,” and Darlene_K praising her guide Sam for making her first side-by-side experience so comfortable. The diverse terrain offers plenty of opportunities for photos, and the lush forests and river views are the highlight.
Beverages are provided throughout, which might seem small but adds a nice touch—no need to bring your own water or soda. This detail, along with helmets and safety gear supplied, underscores the tour’s focus on comfort and safety.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in West Virginia.
The Itinerary in Detail
Upon arrival, your group will sign a rental agreement and liability waiver—standard procedure—and then gear up with helmets. The safety briefing is straightforward but comprehensive, ensuring everyone understands the basics of operating the UTVs and trail etiquette.
Once on the trail, expect to traverse a mix of muddy, rocky, and scenic sections. Some reviews highlight the muddy conditions, especially after rain, which can make the ride more exhilarating but also requires a bit of patience and a sense of humor. Guides are experienced in navigating challenging terrain, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel safe and supported.
Key stops along the route aren’t detailed in the provided information, but the general focus on the park’s natural beauty suggests that you’ll have plenty of chances to appreciate the waterfalls, river views, and wooded landscapes. The tour ends back at the starting point, completing a round-trip that balances adventure with safety.
What Travelers Say
The reviews are exceptionally positive, with all 41 giving a perfect five-star rating. Shelby_R raves about how beautiful the scenery was and her guide Hanna, calling her “the absolute best.” Sherry_B appreciated her guide Esther, stating she was “great,” and that her expectations were exceeded despite her familiarity with UTVs. Nereida_C mentions that this was the best ATV tour they’ve experienced—a significant compliment from seasoned vacationers.
Darlene_K highlighted her guide Sam’s ability to make her feel comfortable, even with no prior experience, and loved the muddy trails after rain, describing the experience as “a blast.” This variety of feedback underscores the tour’s appeal: it’s well-organized, enjoyable, and suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders looking for adventure.
Practical Details and Value
At $435 per group, this tour offers a personalized, all-inclusive adventure. The cost includes the use of top-tier UTVs, safety gear, beverages, and guided expertise—factors that contribute to its perceived value. For families or groups of four, this is an activity that combines excitement, scenery, and safety in a way that’s hard to match.
Timing is flexible with scheduled trip times, and booking generally occurs about a month in advance, reflecting its popularity. The activity is non-refundable, so planning ahead and ensuring good weather are wise choices. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which provides some reassurance.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This adventure is ideal for families with teens (aged 12 and up), groups of friends, or couples seeking a dose of outdoor excitement in a stunning natural setting. It’s also suitable for first-time UTV riders, given the safety briefing and supportive guides. Those who enjoy a bit of mud, scenic vistas, and the thrill of off-road driving will find this tour particularly rewarding.
It’s equally appealing for travelers looking for a private, guided experience—a chance to explore without the hassle of navigation or planning. If your goal is to see the best of the New River Gorge’s landscapes in a fun, active way, this tour checks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
The New River Gorge Side-by-Side Family Tour offers a rare blend of adventure, safety, and natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, top-notch equipment, and a scenic route, it promises memorable moments for those eager to experience West Virginia’s iconic park from a different perspective. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or new to UTV riding, the variety of trails and the enthusiasm of the guides make it a solid choice.
While the price might seem high, the private, all-inclusive nature of this experience, combined with its rave reviews, suggests it’s good value—especially for families or groups wanting a tailored, personal adventure. The stunning views and fun muddy trails are what will stay with you long after the ride.
For those craving a lively, scenic outdoor activity that combines the thrill of the ride with the tranquility of the gorge, this tour delivers. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting more than just a standard sightseeing trip—an engaging, lively way to connect with one of West Virginia’s most impressive landscapes.
New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 12 and up can participate as passengers, but all drivers must be 25 or older with a valid US driver’s license.
How long does the actual trail ride last?
The trail riding portion is approximately 2 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and trails.
What should I wear for the tour?
While not explicitly specified, expect to get muddy. Wearing comfortable outdoor clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bringing a change of clothes if you wish might be wise.
Are beverages included?
Yes, beverages are provided during the tour, so you can stay refreshed without bringing your own drinks.
What kind of terrain will I encounter?
Expect muddy, rocky, and scenic sections, with trails suitable for most skill levels—though some may be more challenging after rain.
Can I book for a larger group?
The tour is private for up to four people per UTV, with the entire group sharing the experience. Larger groups would need to book multiple vehicles.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Since the experience requires good weather, if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets and safety gear are supplied as part of the package.
How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made about 31 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred time.
Is this a good value for the price?
Given the guided experience, top equipment, beverages, and personalized service, many find it worth the cost—especially compared to typical guided outdoor activities.
The New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour stands out as a lively, scenic, and safe way to experience West Virginia’s spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun day outdoors, it offers an engaging adventure that’s hard to beat.
