All-Day Gauley Marathon: A 26-Mile Rafting Gauntlet Through Sweets Falls and Beyond
$225 · 9 Hours · 26 Miles · Class III–V — A full-day whitewater endurance trip
By midmorning the Gauley announces itself with a voice that is all water and urgency. You step out of the shuttle and the canyon rearranges your day—rock faces close in, the river rushes in a tight chord, and the sound of foam and spray becomes a metronome. There’s no warm-up float; the current wants you in motion. This is the Gauley Marathon: 26 miles of engineered chaos and scenic payoff, a single-day test that takes you over Sweets Falls and through stretches of Class III–V rapids that separate weekend paddlers from the ones who come to collect stories.
Trail Wisdom
Trust your guide
Listen and respond to commands—most rescues are preventable when crews follow instructions.
Secure personal items
Leave valuables behind or use a small dry bag; sunglasses straps and neoprene cases are lifesavers.
Layer for thermals
Fall mornings can be cool; bring a light insulating layer and consider renting a wetsuit.
Hydrate before the bus
Start hydrated and carry electrolyte snacks—the physical exertion and adrenaline dehydrate you quickly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle into quieter lower-canyon eddies for birdwatching and ancient rock outcrops
- •Drive to nearby overlooks for sunset views of the Gauley’s carved sandstone
Wildlife
Bald eagle, River otter
Conservation Note
Controlled releases concentrate recreation into a short season—pack out all trash, avoid trampling shoreline vegetation, and rinse gear to prevent invasive species transfer.
The Summersville Dam reshaped the Gauley Valley in the 1960s; floods of the old village sites and engineered releases created the modern river culture.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Off-season scouting, Local trail hiking
Challenges: No scheduled dam releases, Lower flows
Most operators don’t run the Marathon in spring—expect lower water levels and limited guided runs.
summer
Best for: River recreation nearby, Practice paddling in calmer water
Challenges: No official fall releases, Heat and insect activity
Summer sees recreational paddling but not the high flows of Gauley Season; the Marathon is typically not scheduled.
fall
Best for: High-adrenaline whitewater, Spectator-friendly river viewing
Challenges: Short, busy season, Book early
Fall release season (September–October) is peak time—expect full schedules, big rapids, and guaranteed thrills.
winter
Best for: Off-season gear maintenance, Local wildlife viewing
Challenges: Cold temperatures, No river releases
Winter has limited or no runs; conditions are cold and wetsuits alone may not suffice without proper layering.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe river shoesEssential
Protect feet during launches, landings, and reefy rapids.
Helmets & PFD (provided)Essential
Provided by outfitter but verify fit—safety items are non-negotiable.
Lightweight synthetic layersEssential
Quick-drying baselayers help on cool mornings and after dumps of spray.
Dry bag or waterproof pack
Keeps snacks, phone in a case, and a small first-aid kit dry on shore and in the shuttle.
Common Questions
How fit do I need to be for the Gauley Marathon?
You should be in good aerobic shape and able to paddle repeatedly for long intervals; prior whitewater experience is strongly recommended.
Is this trip suitable for beginners?
No—this is a challenging all-day run aimed at experienced paddlers; first-time rafters should consider shorter, lower-class trips.
What ages are allowed?
Participants must be 16 or older for this operator’s Marathon trip.
Are wetsuits provided?
Wetsuits are available for rent if conditions warrant—ask about sizing when you reserve your trip.
Will I get lunch?
Yes—the trip includes a catered riverside lunch with sandwich fixings, fruit, sides, and dessert; inform the operator of dietary needs at booking.
How long is the day?
Plan for roughly a nine-hour commitment: a 9 AM check-in with a return to BaseCamp around 6 PM.
What to Pack
Waterproof phone case (captures photos and stays dry), closed-toe river shoes (for safety on launches), fast-drying layers (stay warm when wet), small dry bag for essentials (keeps valuables safe)
Did You Know
The Army Corps of Engineers controls Summersville Dam and schedules fall releases that turn the Gauley into one of the world’s premier whitewater rivers during a short September–October season.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early for fall releases; expect limited cell service in the canyon; bring cash for small vendors; confirm wetsuit sizes if you need one
Local Flavor
After the run, head to nearby Summersville or Hico for hearty Appalachian fare—look for smoked meats, fried trout, and local craft beers. A lakeside stop at Summersville Lake offers calmer water activities and a relaxed place to unwind.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest major airport: Charleston Yeager Airport (CRW) ~60 miles; Driving distance from Summersville: ~20–30 minutes; Cell service: spotty in the canyon; Permits: none, but reservations required and age limit applies (16+).
Sustainability Note
This is a concentrated-season river—help protect the Gauley by packing out everything, sticking to established launch points, and rinsing gear to prevent invasive species spread.