New River Outdoor Adventures

5785 Fries Road Galax, VA 24333

Hours

Office open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Cost

There are too many trip and rental options to post, but here's a sample of what you can expect:

  • Canoe Trip 1: $60
  • Kayak Trip 1: $50
  • Tube Trip 1: $20
  • Bike Half Day: $20
  • Bike Cart Half Day: $20

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

About

The New River is the oldest river system in North America and the second oldest in the world, after the Nile River. Now, you can float, swim, splash, and fish these amazing waters on your Virginia vacation with New River Outdoor Adventures.

This outdoor adventure center, known as NROA, offers kayaking, tubing, fishing, and biking. Various packages are available for each category, making a visit to NROA perfect for any budget, group size, or timeframe.

NROA's Galax location makes combining multiple activities in a day doable. For example, you can float down the New River in the morning and watch a bluegrass concert in the evening at the Rex Theater or the Blue Ridge Music Center.

Regarding equipment, New River Outdoor Adventures rents top-notch gear and offers exceptional service, ensuring that every visitor has a memorable and safe experience. NROA is also your go-to for a Virginia fishing and hunting license.

The nearby New River Trail State Park will appeal to cyclists who want to cruise the restored railroad track called rails-to-trails. NROA has cruiser-style bikes, helmets, and trailers to rent to make your day of cycling safe and enjoyable.

New River Outdoor Adventures offers top-notch rental gear and excursions on the picturesque New River, making a visit a must when in Virginia.

New River Outdoor Adventures: Fun Facts & Cool Features

One standout feature is the various watercraft to rent, ranging from kayaks and canoes to river tubes. The diverse selection makes finding the perfect vessel for exploring the shallow waters easy.

If you're an experienced angler or a newbie, the guided fishing trips on the New River promise to be rewarding. This waterway is considered one of the top fishing destinations in Virginia, with anglers landing record-breaking-sized muskellunge (45 lbs) and smallmouth bass (8 lbs.)

For those who prefer land-based activities, New River Outdoor Adventures offers bike rentals to explore the area's bike trails. You can rent for a half or full day to explore the New River Trail State Park near NROA. If you're a seasoned rider, consider reserving a shuttle to more challenging trails and riding back to NROA.

The NROA shuttle system will appeal to cyclists, kayakers, and tubers who bring their own equipment. For a nominal fee, NROA will haul you and your gear to several pre-arranged destinations so you can create your adventure getting back to their location.

Last but not least, a cool feature is the New River. This wide, shallow, and clear river offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while the small rapids make exploring it perfect for adventurers of all ages, sizes, and skill levels. And when your day of fun on the water is over, head into Galax to celebrate and refuel at restaurants like Briar Patch Marketplace and Cafe.

Whether casting a line into the ancient waters of the New River, paddling through its gentle currents, or biking lush trails, New River Outdoor Adventures is a must-visit for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to dip their toes into a new adventure.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to New River Outdoor Adventures from Hillsville:

  • Start by getting on I-77 S from US-58 W/US-221 S/Fancy Gap Hwy.
  • Continue on I-77 S, then take exit 19 for VA-620 toward New River / Byllesby Dam Gear.
  • Turn right onto VA-620 W and follow it for approximately 5 miles.
  • Turn left to stay on VA-620 W and continue for another 3 miles.
  • Make a slight right onto River St.
  • Address: 5785 Fries Rd, Galax, VA 24333

Local Tips

  • All rentals require reservations except tubing.
  • Tubing is only available for Trip #1.
  • Wear water shoes to protect your feet during water activities.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Check the weather forecast to ensure ideal conditions for your chosen activities.

Location

5785 Fries Road Galax, VA 24333

Frequently Asked Questions

If you only have one day to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, we have a top-notch recommendation for you: Primland Resort and Spa. This isn’t just an ordinary resort; it’s a destination that has been carefully curated to offer an unparalleled experience, as evidenced by its impressive 4.8-star Google rating.

Primland Resort and Spa is located right in the heart of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not just about the location, though; it’s about the experience. From the moment you step foot onto the property, you’re enveloped in a blend of rustic charm and refined luxury that makes for an unforgettable visit.

The resort offers a wide array of activities tailored to suit all interests and age groups. For the golf enthusiasts, there’s the award-winning Highland Course, ranked as the #1 course in Virginia by Golf Digest. For the nature lovers, there are horseback riding and ATV tours that let you explore the beautiful surroundings in a fun and engaging manner.

But perhaps what truly sets Primland apart is its commitment to wellness. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul—because your well-being is a priority here. Imagine ending your day with a soothing massage or a peaceful yoga session under the stars at their observatory.

And let’s not forget about the culinary delights. With multiple eateries serving up a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, your taste buds are in for a treat.
So, if you’re looking for a one-day itinerary that seamlessly combines adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delights, Primland Resort and Spa is the place to be. Don’t just take our word for it—we invite you to experience it for yourself.

The New River Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. According to sources like dcr.virginia.gov, traillink.com, and roadslesstraveled.us, the trail spans an impressive 57.5 miles, starting from E Main St/VA 99 & Xaloy Way in Pulaski and ending at T George Vaughan Jr Ave in Galax.

This trail isn’t just about distance, though. It’s about the journey. As you embark on this trail, you’ll find yourself meandering through four counties and the city of Galax, as per blueridgeparkway.org. The trail parallels the historic New River for 39 scenic miles, offering a unique blend of forested mountains and pastoral valleys that create a visual feast for the eyes.

But the benefits of this trail extend beyond its stunning landscapes. The New River Trail State Park is a hub of activities, with options for biking, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The changing of the leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking event that attracts countless visitors each year. This natural spectacle begins at the highest elevations in late September, soon after the first calendar days of fall.

The timing and intensity of the color change can differ from year to year and are affected by varying factors such as temperature and rainfall. However, the general pattern is that leaves change color at higher, cooler elevations first. The elevation along the Parkway ranges from over 6,000 feet at Richland Balsam in North Carolina down to just 649 feet near James River in Virginia.

This beautiful autumn leaf show typically starts in early October in the highest elevations above 5,000 feet and gradually descends to lower elevations by late October or early November. In fact the Farmers Almanac, projects peak fall color for the inland portion of Virginia to occur between October 12-28.

So, if you’re planning a trip to witness the stunning fall colors of the Blue Ridge Parkway, aim for these dates. But remember, the beauty of nature is unpredictable and can surprise you at any time. So, pack your camera and hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

More questions

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