CLASS III-IV
12
+ Years
The Lower Gauley, a treasured section of whitewater in West Virginia to those in the know, is often ignored for its upstream sibling, the daring and adventurous Upper Gauley. We believe that the Lower Gauley is one of the best stretches of whitewater anywhere and should be appreciated as such: consider this a Lower Gauley Fan Page.
This full day trip is known for its roller coaster waves and miles of whitewater. But it’s also jam packed with incredible scenery.
Similar in difficulty to the Lower New River, The Lower Gauley encompasses 15 miles of wild and scenic splendor in the heart of Appalachia. Gauley Season, which takes place for six to seven weekends during September and October, is a special time of year for those who love whitewater. Cool morning fog fills the Gauley River Canyon, and the changing leaves add drama to an already incredible landscape. While the Upper Gauley is known the world over for her technical rapids, the Lower Gauley offers thrills in the form of miles of whitewater, numerous rapids, and scenery that is only accessible to those who raft this portion of the river.
During this full day trip, you’ll raft numerous class III-V rapids. Rolling waves are always on the menu, but so is a delicious hot riverside lunch served to you by your guides.
The Gauley River is the cream of the whitewater crop. It’s characterized by heavy rapids that require tight, technical maneuvering. Its 24 miles long, but it’s typically split into two sections: the Upper Gauley and the Lower Gauley. Gauley Season brings the year’s biggest whitewater and draws enthusiasts from across the globe each September and October. Over the course of six weeks, water is released from Summersville Lake on a set schedule, making for wild, powerful, BIG rapids that bring thrills you just can’t get anywhere else.
Transportation is covered from the resort to the river and back again. We’ll also provide all your rafting equipment (helmet, personal flotation device or PFD, paddle, and boat) and a complimentary beverage. This is a full day trip, so you'll enjoy a riverside lunch part way through your trip as well.
Bring any medication you need throughout the day, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a change of clothes to keep at the resort to change into after your trip. Guides carry small, waterproof bags to stow necessary medications. Depending on the time of year and the weather, you may also want a synthetic layer. If necessary, wetsuits and splash jackets are available for rent. Call us to book those, too.
Our standard, 16-foot rafts comfortably seat eight rafters and one river guide. Upgrades to 14-foot and 12-foot rafts are available to reserve. Your river guide sits in the back of the raft, where they’ll give instructions for when and how to paddle through each rapid and share their expertise about our rivers and region. Learn more about our guides.
The minimum age for this trip is 12 years old. Our PFDs have a maximum chest capacity of 56 inches. All adventurers on the trip should be able to swim.
Custom quotes are available for groups of over 15. Call us to learn more!
Our trip leaders and river guides will talk through specific guidelines and requirements on site before you head for the water.
Due to high traffic volume online booking is currently running slow. For booking help call (855) 379-8738 or see our Trip Planner.
