Cheat River Outfitters

Two fatalities occurred with this operator within days of each other during May 2008. This information is not reported by the regulator, the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, or the operator. One of our three guides capsized three times in one trip. No problem with the other two boats. See Charleston Daily Mail newspaper article.

Last weekend, we took 38 Scouts ranging in age from 11 to 17 over to WV for some whitewater rafting on the Cheat. They had blast! Although the water was extremely high and fast and we couldn't take the older Scouts on "The Canyons," this outfitter made sure our trips down "The Narrows" were ones the boys will never forget and will rehash around campfires for years to come. The guides are the best and kept the level of excitement appropriate to the ability/age/strength of each individual crew. They could put the raft exactly where it needed to be! The older Scouts tried things I didn't even know were possible in a raft and ended up in the water multiple times. The younger Scouts found their trips just as exciting but without the falls overboard! We are going back next year--reservations are already made!

Went today with a few friends to conquer the Cheat. Conquer we did, and so much more. I'm still rocking back and forth trying to adjust my equilibrium. The guides here are of the best that I know. They go far and beyond to make your experience a pleasurable one. I've been to many outfitters, and CRO has a staff that can't be topped. The guides do at least 15 check rides before getting a group assignment. This ensures they know the river. Every obstacle was easily negotiated with the mentoring of our guide (Mike). He was also very knowledgeable about the river, it's history, and it's attitude based on current conditions. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Enough said! PRICE: A+ STAFF: A+ PATIENCE: A+ KNOWLEDGE: A+ FOOD (lunch stop): A+ BUS DRIVER: A+ (Safe, and doesn't run out of gas) If CRO sees this, thanks to Paul and Mike for making my 4hr drive so worth it and making this weekend one of the best!

The group was 10 older teens - a venturing scout group - and some parents. The outfitters were reasonable, flexible according to weather conditions, and had an entire week of terrific activities for us. The scouts were so happy they elected to return this year - and haven't stopped talking about the last trip. This group focuses on adventure activities and doesn't want to be in crowds - so the Cheat experience was perfect for them. Also, all of the outfitters' recommendations locally suited us really well - the campground, etc. We appreciate the individual attention and recommend this outfitter because they were able to flex during the week with the weather. They took very good care of us. The scouts want to do the exact same activities again!!!!