The Ultimate Guide To Gauley Season

September 2, 2025

Fall in the New River Gorge is more than just crisp air and vibrant foliage; it’s when the Gauley River comes roaring to life. Each year, this stretch of world-class whitewater draws thrill-seekers from across the world to experience this short but spectacular season of rafting. Here’s everything you need to know about Gauley season. 

Gauley River Origins 

The Gauley River stretches 105 miles from its headwaters on Gauley Mountain in the Monongahela National Forest. Its principal tributaries, flowing from the east, include the Williams, Cranberry, Cherry and Meadow rivers. Summersville Dam, built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, regulates the flow and creates Summersville Lake, with the Gauley River National Recreation Area located just downstream.

Close-up of whitewater rafters in blue raft getting splashed by turbulent rapids, wearing yellow helmets and life jackets.
Small blue raft with three people navigating river rapids while large group of rafters and spectators sit on rocky riverbank watching, with rafting gear and equipment scattered on the rocks.
Photo Credit: National Park Service

What Is Gauley Season? 

The Gauley River, known as the “Beast of the East,” is famous for its challenging rapids and remarkable scenery. Gauley season occurs when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases water from Summersville Dam, creating ideal conditions for whitewater rafting on the Gauley River.

These controlled releases take place for seven weekends each fall, starting the Friday after Labor Day. For the first five weekends, water flows from Friday through Monday. During the last two weekends, releases only happen on Saturday and Sunday, with the final weekend aligning with the annual Bridge Day celebration.

Despite its fleeting run, the season attracts over 60,000 adventurers eager to conquer 25 miles of wild water. Over this length, the Gauley River drops more than 668 feet, creating steep, technical runs with plenty of power. It’s consistently ranked among the top rafting rivers in the world. 

What To Expect On The Gauley River

Water releases are timed to allow rafting outfitters to run two distinct stretches: the Upper Gauley and the Lower Gauley.

The Upper Gauley

From Summersville Dam to about 12 miles downstream, the Upper section defines the Gauley’s legendary status. With an average drop of nearly 70 feet per mile, this section is packed with Class V rapids that require rigor and skill. Minimum age is typically 16, and experience is strongly recommended.

The Upper Gauley’s reputation rests on its “Big Five” rapids — a gauntlet of whitewater challenges. The rapids include: 

  • Insignificant – Despite its misleading name, this rapid features steep drops into an onslaught of pounding waves and huge holes of recirculating water. 
  • Pillow Rock – A massive pillow of water rushing up, over and down a giant boulder, barely submerged beneath the surface. 
  • Lost Paddle – A quarter-mile stretch of rigorous whitewater with four towering drops.
  • Iron Ring – Two consecutive eight-foot plunges in a wavy, fast-moving channel.
  • Sweet’s Falls – A 14-foot waterfall that marks the final test of the Gauley River. 

The Lower Gauley  

The 12-mile Lower Gauley features Class III–V rapids and incredible scenery as the canyon reaches its most rugged and remote points. This section is often compared to the Lower New River, but with even more continuous action. Suitable for a wider range of paddlers (minimum age 12–14), the Lower Gauley offers exciting thrills without the relentless pace of the Upper Gauley.

Rafters in blue inflatable raft getting drenched by rapids spray, wearing yellow helmets and life jackets while paddling with yellow oars through churning whitewater.
Photo Credit: National Park Service / Gary Hartley
Whitewater rafting group in white raft with guide standing, paddling through rough rapids with rocky canyon walls.
Photo Credit: National Park Service

Planning Your Gauley Trip

Rafting the Gauley means fast water, intense rapids and often cooler fall weather. Here are a few tips for planning your trip:

  • Book Early: Trips fill up quickly during this brief season.
  • Go with a Guide: Professional guides are essential for navigating the river’s challenges safely. 
  • Dress for the Season: The water stays cold and fall temperatures can shift suddenly, so dress accordingly. Wetsuits, booties and splash jackets are recommended, and local outfitters offer rentals.
  • Know your Section: Pick the Lower for a more approachable adventure, or tackle the Upper for the ultimate rafting experience. 

Book Your Trip 

The Gauley River’s short season makes it one of the most coveted rafting trips in the world. Book your trip with a local outfitter and see for yourself why this river is called the “Beast of the East.” 

Request a free travel guide to help plan your fall trip to the New River Gorge.