New Season, Bigger Capacity
SUDS has partnered with ACE Adventure Resort and New River Gorge National Park to expand its adaptive white water rafting program in 2026. Three SUDS guides completed American Canoe Association adaptive paddling certifications in April, bringing the total certified adaptive rafting guides to seven — enough to run two simultaneous rafts with full 1:1 coverage.
The 2026 Rafting Schedule
- Session 1: June 14–15, 2026 — Upper New River (Class II–III, beginner-friendly)
- Session 2: September 19–20, 2026 — Lower New River Gorge (Class IV–V, experienced participants)
Who Can Participate
Both lower-limb and upper-limb amputees, as well as participants with spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, have completed SUDS rafting sessions. ACE's fleet includes specialized adaptive raft seating for participants with limited trunk stability. Medical pre-screening is required; the SUDS program coordinator handles this process.
Why White Water
"Rafting is team-dependent in a way that dive and climbing aren't," said one SUDS guide. "You're in a raft with five other warriors and two guides. You have to communicate, coordinate, and trust each other in a high-speed environment. The social rehabilitation value is distinct from any of our other programs."