Lower Gauley River Whitewater Rafting Trip
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Quite possibly one of the best river trips in the country, the Lower Gauley offers some of the single biggest waves, gigantic holes and steep drops runnable by raft. The Lower Gauley serves up 55 rapids rated from class I-V, with most of them III or higher. With the help of a professional guide, you and your crew will tackle this whitewater fanatic’s favorite. It’s no wonder that guests flock from around the world to catch one of these 22 release dates. Delicious hot lunch included.
Available options
Lower Gauley River Whitewater Rafting Trip
Hot Riverside Lunch
What's included
Professional guide
Lunch included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Personal flotation device, helmet and paddle
Beverages
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your rafting trip leader at the departure point. You will listen to a brief orientation and get your gear (personal flotation device, helmet and paddle). Then, you will have a 45-minute ride on a school bus down to the river put-in. Your guide will go over additional instructions once you get in the raft.
A return shuttle with complimentary beverages brings you back to the resort.
2
The trip begins with a few smaller class I-III rapids as you ease into paddling and working as a team. Then, you hit some bigger rapids rated class IV-V. About half-way through the trip, you will pull over and eat a grilled hot riverside lunch on the shore. After lunch, you will continue downstream into some more booming whitewater. Here you’ll go through several rapids rated class III-V, like Koontz’s Flume and PSH. Between rapids, there is time for a swimmer’s rapid and maybe (based on water levels) jumping off of rocks. A return shuttle with complimentary beverages brings you back to the resort.
What's not included
Gratuities
DVD (available to purchase)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Wetsuits and paddling jackets (available for rent)
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.8
32 reviews
5★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 12 years
Meeting point
Google "Adventures on the Gorge". Address is building number 10 at the resort.
Important notes
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum age is 14 years
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
About West Virginia
West Virginia is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rolling mountains, dense forests, and meandering rivers. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures, historic sites, and charming small towns, making it a unique and appealing destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
New River Gorge Bridge
This iconic steel arch bridge spans the New River Gorge and offers stunning views. It is a popular spot for sightseeing and adventure activities like bridgewalking and BASE jumping.
Architecture/Nature
2-4 hours
Free to view, Bridgewalking: $89-$129
Seneca Rocks
A striking rock formation in the Monongahela National Forest, Seneca Rocks is a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and photography.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Free
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
This historic town is where John Brown's raid took place, and it played a significant role in the Civil War. The park offers museums, historic buildings, and scenic views of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free entry, some attractions may have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pepperoni Rolls
A beloved West Virginia staple, pepperoni rolls are made with pepperoni stuffed inside a soft, doughy bread. They are a popular snack and lunch item.
Snack
Contains gluten and dairy
Ramps
Wild leeks, or ramps, are a spring delicacy in West Virginia. They are often sautéed or pickled and served as a side dish.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Whitewater rafting
Mountain biking
Scenic drives
Wine tasting
Spa visits
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This is the best time to visit West Virginia for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are in full bloom during the spring and summer months. Fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures.
15°C to 27°C
59°F to 81°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5:00 (GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
West Virginia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, petty crime and accidents can occur, so it's essential to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended in your car
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Yeager Airport • 5 km from downtown Charleston
- North Central West Virginia Airport • 10 km from downtown Clarksburg
By train
Amtrak Station - Martinsburg
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station - Charleston, Greyhound Bus Station - Huntington
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available in urban areas but are not extensive. Service is limited in rural areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Charleston
Elkview
Day trips
Blackwater Falls State Park
240 km from Charleston • Full day
Home to the stunning Blackwater Falls, this state park offers hiking, waterfalls, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
200 km from Charleston • Full day
A year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. The park also features a resort with dining and lodging options.
Festivals
West Virginia State Fair • August
West Virginia Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Explore the state's numerous state parks and forests for unique hiking and outdoor experiences
- Visit historic sites and museums to learn about West Virginia's rich history and culture
- Try local cuisine, such as pepperoni rolls and ramps, for an authentic taste of the region
- Plan your trip around local festivals and events for a unique and memorable experience
- Respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when exploring nature
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
