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.
2025 Gauley 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 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
Featured Trips
Lower New River | Single Day
Intermediate
12+
5-7 hours
Starting at $125/person
May - October
Upper New River | Single Day
Beginner
6+
5-7 hours
Starting at $115/person
May - October
Lower New River Express Trip | Single Day
Intermediate
12+
2-3 hours
Starting at $95/person
May - October
