Gauley Season — A Wild Ride Through West Virginia’s Fifth Season

Fall in the New River Gorge is a season of transformation. The leaves turn vibrant hues, the air becomes crisp and the Gauley River roars to life. This annual spectacle, known as Gauley season, draws thrill-seekers from around the world to experience the whitewater of a lifetime.

The Mechanics of Gauley Season

The Gauley River, often dubbed the “Beast of the East,” is renowned for its challenging rapids and stunning scenery. During Gauley season, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manage controlled water releases from the Summersville Dam that create ideal conditions for whitewater rafting. This makes the downstream Gauley River National Recreation Area a prime spot for adventure in the fall.

Over 25 miles, the Gauley River drops more than 668 feet through daring rapids with a significant amount of technical runs and a substantial volume of water. With its rugged terrain, scenic beauty and remote location, the Gauley River is one of the most sought-after whitewater trips in the world.

To accommodate rafting outfitters, water releases are coordinated to offer 23 days of trips down two distinct stretches of the Gauley River. 

The Iconic Upper Gauley

The Upper Gauley, from the dam to approximately 12 miles downstream, is where the river’s legendary reputation is forged. With an average drop of nearly 70 feet per mile, the Upper Gauley offers relentless class V whitewater around every bend.

These rapids, collectively known as the “Big Five,” present a diverse set of obstacles, from near-vertical drops to impressive waves. The “Big Five” are notorious not only for their size but also for their unique and challenging river formations, making them a true whitewater masterclass. The rapids include:

• Insignificant: A long line of steep drops leading into an onslaught of pounding waves and giant holes of recirculating water. 
• Pillow Rock: A massive pillow of water that rushes up, over and down a huge boulder, barely submerged beneath the surface.
• Lost Paddle: A quarter-mile stretch of rigorous whitewater with four towering drops.
• Iron Ring:  A wavy rapid featuring two consecutive eight-foot drops.
• Sweet’s Falls: The final challenge of the Gauley River — a 14-foot waterfall.

The Upper Gauley features intense rapids with turbulent chutes and rocky sections demanding constant maneuvering. This section of the river requires experience and has a minimum age of 16 years old. 

Discovering the Lower Gauley

While the Upper Gauley garners most of the attention, the Lower Gauley offers its own thrills. This 12-mile stretch features class III-V rapids and provides a less crowded but equally exciting experience. 

Seasoned rafters may prefer the Upper Gauley, but by normal rafting standards, the Lower Gauley is still a formidable force. Look forward to long rapids with enormous action and gorgeous, untamed scenery as the canyon reaches its wildest and most striking point along the Lower Gauley. This section is suitable for paddlers with varying skill levels and has a minimum age of 12 to 14 years old. 

The Season’s Short Window

Gauley season is a fleeting but intense window of opportunity. Water releases occur for just seven weekends each fall, drawing over 60,000 people to experience the river’s wild waters. These releases are scheduled from Friday through Monday, beginning the Friday after Labor Day. There are five weeks of four-day releases; during the last two weeks, water is only released on Saturday and Sunday. The final weekend coincides with the annual Bridge Day celebration.

Book A Trip Today

Ready to experience the thrill of Gauley season? Professional guides are essential for navigating the river’s mighty rapids. Secure your spot with a local outfitter to experience why the Gauley River is considered one of the top whitewater rivers in the world!