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Gauley River Whitewater Rafting

Gauley River Rafting Photo courtesy of  Cantrell Ultimate Rafting

Dropping more than 668 feet through a 28-mile gorge, the Gauley River features more than 100 white water rapids with huge waves, steep gradients, and technical runs. Each year, tens of thousands of paddling enthusiasts converge on the  canyon of the Gauley River to enjoy some of the best  whitewater rafting in the  U.S. Its challenging rapids and scenic beauty have earned the Gauley River the rank of the world's seventh most popular white water rafting river.

Whitewater companies typically categorize the Gauley River as two sections -- Upper Gauley and Lower Gauley.

Upper Gauley
The Upper Gauley River features Class III to V+ rapids, and is suitable for experienced or expert rafters.

Lower Gauley
With more peaceful rapids than the Upper Gauley, the Lower Gauley River is suitable for novice rafters, and is often run as a warm-up for a day on the upper section.

The Gauley Season 2005

The Gauley River rages from early-September through mid-October, when water is released from Summersville Lake reservoir.  This increase in the Gauley's water-flow provides world-class whitewater excitement!  Because of limited space and intense popularity, reservations for Gauley River rafting trips must be reserved early.

Gauley River Release Dates 2005
 

Hotels near Gauley River Rafting

Fayetteville, WV hotels - The northern gateway to the New River Gorge, Fayetteville, WV, is located just minutes away from most Gauley River rafting companies' base-camps.

Summersville, WV hotels - Located about 23 miles north of Fayetteville, Summersville, WV is near the Gauley River National Recreation Area and Summersville Lake.

More Information on Gauley River Rafting

A number of full-service whitewater outfitters and guide companies are licensed to offer Gauley River and New River rafting trips. Visit WVExplorer for a list of West Virginia whitewater rafting outfitters providing guided rafting trips on West Virginia's top whitewater rivers.

Free Whitewater Rafting Info -- It's the fastest, easiest way to get information on West Virginia whitewater rafting!  Simply type in your e-mail address once and you'll receive info from 18 West Virginia whitewater rafting guide and outfitter companies.
 

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