Lower Gauley | Single Day
This renowned river is consistently ranked among the top rivers in the world by expert paddlers, based on its technical rapids, scenic quality and inaccessibility. The fall Lower Gauley is considered a moderate adventure and combines exhilarating rapids with magnificent scenery from start to finish.
Intermediate
12+
5 - 7 Hours
September - October
Single Day Rates
Weekday: $125
Saturday: $185
Sunday: $135
BOOK SINGLE DAY TRIP
Value Package Rates
Weekday: $160
Saturday: $220
Sunday: $170
BOOK VALUE PACKAGE
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)
Adventure Class
- Intermediate – Exciting
- Class III – V Rapids
- No Experience Necessary
- Minimum Age: 12
This whitewater trip feels like a watery roller coaster ride—a favorite among many paddlers. It is set in a pristine wilderness which allows you to marvel at the rugged canyon walls and grandeur between rapids, numbering over 35, with colorful names like Pure Screaming Hell, Canyon Doors, Koontz Flume, and Heaven Help Us.
The Lower Gauley is characterized by big whitewater, invigorating rapids and breathtaking scenery. this adventure is well suited for enthusiastic first time rafters and is often the next step after rafting the Lower New River. The Lower Gauley is also the perfect prelude to the intense Upper Gauley.
Trip Details
Trip Length: 5-7 hours
Trip Includes:
- Continental Breakfast
- Round-Trip River Shuttle
- Riverside Deli Lunch
- Complimentary Beverages after Rafting
What is Adventure Class?
Adventure Class Trips (min. age 12) are more challenging than Family Class Trips. These rafting in West Virginia trips are characterized by alternating pools and drops that create big, roller coaster-type waves and rapids. Adventure Class Trips are suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.
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
Small Raft Upgrades
River Expeditions offers the option to upgrade to a smaller raft, allowing you the flexibility to choose EITHER a more challenging ride OR a more “personal” raft to maintain closeness with only those in your party. Small rafts upgrades are available as an add-on to any river trip we run. Two small raft options include: 7-person maximum (Wildside) or 4-person maximum (Extreme Wildside).
For those who seek to test your limits and an even bigger adrenaline rush, smaller rafts provide higher performance and increased maneuverability. This aggressive approach is for experienced, enthusiastic paddlers who want to see the river from a new perspective. On the Gauley River, this trip is recommended for those over the age of 18, with prior class V+ rafting experience, excellent health and the ability to calmly respond to adverse and difficult whitewater situations.
For those who seek to experience the river in a more personal setting, without the added challenge, smaller rafts can offer the feel of a “private” raft. This option is great families or groups who want to stay together in their own raft. When reserving a small raft, please specify whether you want a more thrilling ride or want to maintain closeness with those in your group. Small raft upgrades are available on any trip offered on the New River or Gauley River, based on availability. Some restrictions may apply.
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.
Gallery
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