Upper Gauley | Single Day
Set against a backdrop of towering cliffs and steep slopes of brilliant fall foliage, the Upper Gauley River is a high impact adventure recommended for only serious whitewater enthusiasts. It is ranked as one of the most uniquely challenging single day whitewater runs in the world and certainly in the United States. It is also the most extreme trip we offer.
Advanced
16+
5 - 7 Hours
September - October
Single Day Rates
Weekday: $140
Saturday: $205
Sunday: $160
BOOK SINGLE DAY TRIP
Value Package Rates
Weekday: $175
Saturday: $240
Sunday: $195
BOOK VALUE PACKAGE
Full Gauley Marathon
*10 Rafters Required*
Weekday: $200
Saturday: $270
Sunday: $220
CALL TO BOOK
2025 FALL GAULEY RIVER RELEASE DATES (TENTATIVE):
September: 5, 6, 7, 8; 12, 13, 14, 15; 19, 20, 21, 22; 26, 27, 28, 29
October: 3, 4, 5; 11, 12; 18 (Bridge Day) & 19 (Last Day)
Extreme Class
- Advanced – Extreme
- Class III – V+ Rapids
- Experience Recommended
- Minimum Age: 16
On this trip you’ll encounter tight, technical rapids that demand precise maneuvering, skill and attention. And navigate through steep drops, narrow chutes, rocky ledges and crashing whitewater. Major rapids like Pillow Rock, Insignificant, Iron Ring, and Sweet’s Falls test your teamwork and keep the adrenaline pumping. The experience is intense with nonstop action from start to finish.
Enjoy exclusive access to the sunny side of Sweet’s Falls where hot, grilled lunch is prepared while you take a well earned break from paddling. This is the best vantage point to watch other rafters negotiate the rapids. Spectacular scenery and dramatic views highlight this high impact adventure.
Trip Details
Trip Length: 5-7 hours
Trip Includes:
- Continental Breakfast
- Round-Trip River Shuttle
- Riverside Deli Lunch
- Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
What is Extreme Class?
Extreme Class Trips (min. age 16) are the most technical and difficult whitewater runs offered. Because of the steep drops, wild water and rapids that rate up to Class V+, World Class Trips are recommended for advanced paddlers with previous Adventure Class rafting experience.
2024 Gauley Release Dates (Tentative)
-
2025 FALL GAULEY RIVER RELEASE DATES (TENTATIVE):
September: 5, 6, 7, 8; 12, 13, 14, 15; 19, 20, 21, 22; 26, 27, 28, 29
October: 3, 4, 5; 11, 12; 18 (Bridge Day) & 19 (Last Day)
Package Options
Single Day Rafting:
Continental Breakfast
Riverside Deli Lunch
Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
Value Package:
Single Day Rafting
2 Nights Camping
Continental Breakfast
Daily Deluxe Dinner
Full Gauley Marathon:
Continental Breakfast
Riverside Deli Lunch
Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
6 Rafters Required
Small Raft Upgrades
River Expeditions offers raft upgrades for those that want a more riveting ride white water rafting the Gauley River WV. Smaller rafts provide higher performance and increased maneuverability. Experienced paddlers (that are also over the age of 18, in excellent health and calmly respond to adverse conditions) can choose smaller raft options — Wildside or Extreme Wildside— for a new perspective and extra adrenaline rush.
Sometimes, families or smaller groups like to choose a smaller raft in order to have a closer, more personal experience without the added thrill. When upgrading to a small raft, simply share your preference with us, and we’ll be happy to accommodate.
RATES
| SMALL RAFT UPGRADE | GUESTS PER BOAT | NEW RIVER | GAULEY RIVER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wildside | 7 | $140* | $210* |
| Extreme Wildside | 4 | $140* | $180* |
* Small raft prices are per boat per, day. An additional $20 per person applies to these upgrade rates on Saturdays and Holiday Sundays. No Small Raft Upgrades on the first two Saturdays in September.
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