White Water Rafting West Virginia

The Gauley River in West Virginia merges with the New River to form the Kanawha River. It is one of the most popular advanced whitewater runs in the world and is the chief feature of the Gauley River National Recreation area. The white water section of the Upper Gauley starts at the base of Summersville Dam which creates the largest lake in West Virginia, Summersville Lake, with over 2,700 acres of water and 60 miles of shoreline. The Gauley River in Summersville, West Virginia is the state’s crown jewel adventure destination. Rich in history and steeped with beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife, the Gauley River is a must see for anyone.

Gauley River White Water Rafting

The Gauley River is rated # 5 in the world for single day white water rafting. Gauley River rafting takes place all season long. September and October guarantee high water rafting, and varying water levels throughout the summer make each day a unique white water experience. Water levels vary in the summer based on rainfall, with each day’s raft size tailored to river conditions to ensure that you have the most fun on the river possible. In the fall, the Army Corps of Engineers draws down the Summersville Lake creating the preeminent white water rafting in West Virginia. During the months of September and October (Gauley Season) the Summersville Dam releases an optimal and guaranteed water flow showcasing some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in the world. The Gauley River starts at the base of Summersville Dam and runs for 21 miles continuously through hundreds of rapids rated Class II to Class VI. The Gauley River for rafting purposes is separated into two sections; the Upper Gauley River and the Lower Gauley River. The Lower Gauley is a good introduction to technical rafting while Upper Gauley River rafting is world renowned and features five major Class V rapids. The Gauley River flows through a beautiful gorge rich with Civil War history and some of the best trout fishing in West Virginia. There are several access points to the major rapids along the Gauley River and during Gauley Season, people flock through the woods to get a glimpse of white water rafting at its finest.