2018 Gauley Season is here!
August 20, 2018According to the National Park Service, over 60,000 people come to challenge themselves on the Gauley River annually. Gauley Season is here, and there’s still time to book your trip for a life-changing experience on one of the most renowned whitewater rivers in the world!
What’s so great about it?
Gauley Season means scheduled releases from the Summersville Dam in Nicholas County, WV, which guarantees constant regulated water flow on the Gauley River. This steady stream of water creates some of the toughest whitewater challenges in the country.
Releases, mostly on weekends, begin on September 7 and will run through, October 21; allowing commercial outfitters and private boaters to easily plan their Gauley trips.
Throughout its 25-mile stretch, the Gauley drops more than 668 feet creating over 100 rapids that provide big waves, technical maneuvers and thrills to remember for a lifetime.
Whitewater enthusiasts run two distinct sections of the Gauley river: the upper and lower. The Upper Gauley features class V standouts like Pillow Rock, Sweet’s Falls (a 14-foot drop!) and Iron Ring which range from action on huge water to masterful obstacle navigation. The Lower Gauley features rapids like Diagonal Ledges, Canyon Doors, Upper/Lower Mash and Heaven’s Gate.
The natural beauty along these rapids offer striking scenes of pure wilderness. Regardless of the trip you choose, the river will provide you with stories for your friends and families for years to come!
For those who dare to ride the Gauley, you may find yourself with time before or after your trip. Many of the region’s outfitters offer other activities for you to enjoy like mountain biking, horseback riding, ziplining, rock climbing, hiking and more!
Are you going to take on the Gauley in 2018?