Challenge

Upper Gauley River Express

¾ Day

CLASS III-V

+ Years

60 RAPIDS

4-6 HR Trip

Fall

Book Now

Home
Rafting
Upper Gauley River Express

Overview

3/4 of a Day on the Biggest Whitewater

4-6 hour trip
Class III-V rapids
Not recommended for beginners

Want to experience the world-class Gauley River in a shorter amount of time? This 3/4 of a day trip will take you down the Upper Gauley River, where you’ll take on class V rapids such as Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, and Sweet’s Falls. You’ll take off of the river further upstream of our Full Day Upper Gauley River Trip, giving you an abbreviated experience-but you won’t miss out on the five class V rapids that the Upper Gauley is known for. This will give you the chance to run one of the top five rivers in the world for rafting even if you’re pressed for time. It’s an adventure that we recommend for experienced rafters who are ready for an intense challenge on high-volume, technical whitewater that demands full participation and tons of paddling power.

Looking for the full day Upper Gauley River Trip? Head over to this page.

For first time rafters who want to experience the Gauley River, check out the Lower Gauley River!

Book your Whitewater Rafting Adventure Today!

Talk to a reservation specialist.

(855) 379-8738

Gallery

Resources

No data was found

FAQ

About the River

The Gauley River is the cream of the whitewater crop. It’s characterized by heavy rapids that require tight, technical maneuvering. It’s 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.

How to Dress for Rafting

What’s Included

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.

What to Bring

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.

Trip Time

This is a 3/4 of a day trip.

Depending on the day’s water level, you’ll spend between 4-6 hours on the water, plus shuttle time to and from the river. Trip length and intensity vary based on water levels, which change throughout the season.

Your Boat & Guide

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.

Requirements and Limits

The minimum age for this trip is 15 years old. Our PFDs have a maximum chest capacity of 56 inches. All adventurers on the trip should be able to swim.

Group Reservations

Custom quotes are available for groups of over 15. Call us to learn more!

Safety

Our trip leaders and river guides will talk through specific guidelines and requirements on site before you head for the water.