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You've heard the stories — maybe even told some yourself — of unforgettable West Virginia river rafting adventures. See for yourself why we are a top destination for truly magnificent rafting. With two rivers only minutes apart, we've got something for everybody, whether you want the classic New River whitewater experience, a kid-friendly float trip, or you're ready to go big on the Gauley! We are still family owned and operated, so you know you'll enjoy a thoughtfully designed experience from the moment you book to the moment you hit the river. It's time for your next story. Book a West Virginia rafting trip with us!

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White Water Rafting Trips, Camping, RV Sites

Su 07:00-19:00; Mo 07:00-19:00; Tu 07:00-19:00; We 07:00-19:00; Th 07:00-19:00; Fr 07:00-19:00; Sa 07:00-19:00

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231 Wood Mountain Road, Glen Jean, WV 25846, US

Gauley Season Is Just 60 Days Away – Reserve Your Upper & Lower Gauley Adventure Today

July 13, 2026

Gauley Season Is Just 60 Days Away!

The countdown is on! In just 60 days, the legendary Gauley River comes alive as scheduled dam releases transform it into one of the world’s premier whitewater rafting destinations. Beginning September 11, paddlers from across the country will gather in the New River Gorge to experience the powerful rapids, stunning fall scenery, and unforgettable adventures that make Gauley Season one of the most anticipated times of the year.

Whether you’re ready to tackle the world-famous Upper Gauley or enjoy the exciting Lower Gauley, now is the time to reserve your trip before the best dates are gone.

Every September, something incredible happens in the New River Gorge. Water is released from Summersville Dam, transforming the Gauley River into one of the most exciting whitewater destinations on Earth. For a limited time each fall, rafters from around the world travel to West Virginia to experience what many consider the pinnacle of whitewater rafting.

Whether you’re looking for the adrenaline-pumping rapids of the Upper Gauley or the scenic beauty and exciting Class III-IV rapids of the Lower Gauley, West Virginia Adventures delivers an unforgettable experience led by veteran guides who know every wave, rapid, and line down the river.

Why Gauley Season Is So Special

Unlike most rivers, the Gauley only reaches its legendary status during scheduled dam releases from Summersville Lake. These releases create consistent, powerful flows that produce some of the biggest and most technical whitewater in North America.

This limited season only lasts a few weekends each fall, making reservations essential.

During Gauley Season you’ll experience:

Crystal-clear mountain water
Stunning fall foliage
Reliable high water levels
World-renowned rapids
Professional certified guides
Incredible scenery throughout the New River Gorge National Park

Upper Gauley River Rafting

If you’ve always wanted to check a bucket-list adventure off your list, the Upper Gauley delivers.

Often ranked among the Top 10 whitewater runs in the world, the Upper Gauley features nearly 100 rapids packed into 13 miles of continuous excitement.

Famous Rapids Include:

Insignificant
Pillow Rock
Lost Paddle
Iron Ring
Sweet’s Falls
Heaven Help You

Expect:

Class IV & V rapids
Big waves
Technical drops
Continuous action
An all-day adventure

This trip is best suited for adventurous paddlers looking for an unforgettable challenge.

Lower Gauley River Rafting

Want incredible whitewater with a little more time to enjoy the scenery?

The Lower Gauley offers the perfect balance of excitement and breathtaking mountain views.

This section includes fun Class III-IV rapids with beautiful pools between rapids, making it ideal for:

Families with older teenagers
First-time Gauley rafters
Intermediate paddlers
Anyone wanting incredible whitewater without the intensity of the Upper Gauley

Highlights include:

Koontz Flume
Pure Screaming Hell
Heaven’s Gate
Numerous technical wave trains

The Lower Gauley is exciting, scenic, and one of the most enjoyable rafting trips in West Virginia.

Why Choose West Virginia Adventures?

At West Virginia Adventures, rafting isn’t just our business—it’s our passion.

As a Veteran-Owned and Operated outfitter, we’re committed to providing safe, exciting adventures while delivering exceptional customer service from the moment you arrive until the last paddle stroke.

When you raft with us, you’ll enjoy:

Experienced state-certified guides
Smaller, more personal groups
Quality equipment
Safety-first approach
Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Convenient location near the New River Gorge

Our guides don’t simply steer the raft—they create memories that last a lifetime.

Make It a Complete Adventure

Many guests combine their Gauley trip with other adventures around the New River Gorge.

Consider extending your trip with:

Lower New River rafting
Upper New River rafting
Bridge Walk
Local hiking
Mountain biking
Cabin stays
Local restaurants and breweries

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit southern West Virginia.

Gauley Season Dates Fill Fast

Because Gauley Season only occurs on scheduled release weekends, trips sell out quickly.

If you’ve been thinking about rafting the Gauley River, now is the time to reserve your adventure.

Whether you’re ready to conquer the legendary Upper Gauley or enjoy the incredible scenery and exciting rapids of the Lower Gauley, West Virginia Adventures is ready to make this your best adventure yet.

Book your Gauley River rafting trip today and experience why paddlers from around the world return to West Virginia every fall.

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