Reverse Gauley: Two Days of Class V Roar on the Upper Gauley
A namesake run through Class V chaos—are you ready for the Gauley’s finest?
The canyon breathes in a low, constant hiss of spray and rock—an inhale that grows into a shout as you push off the shore. For the next two days the river will not let you forget it exists. You swing your paddle in time with the guide’s calls, feeling the boat tilt and the current seize the bow. Moments later you’re in the churn: water folding and rising, foam like poured sugar, then emptying to reveal the dark, slick ledge of a rapid. This is the Upper Gauley, and the Reverse Gauley trip is a pilgrimage through some of the most sustained Class V whitewater in the eastern United States.
Trail Wisdom
Secure Footwear
Wear closed-toe river shoes or sandals with heel straps—loose footwear is a common cause of injury or lost gear.
Hydration and Electrolytes
Bring a refillable, clip-friendly water bottle or hydration bladder; exertion and spray both dehydrate you.
Follow Guide Commands
Guides call every maneuver—bracing, leaning, or high-sideing; quick obedience keeps everyone safer.
Pack a Warm Change of Clothes
Even after a full day on the water, evenings at base camp can be chilly—stow dry layers in a small dry bag.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Summersville Lake overlooks for calm paddle and photography
- •Babcock State Park trails for a quieter forest walk before or after your trip
Wildlife
Bald Eagle, Black Bear (possible, usually seen from a distance)
Conservation Note
The gorge’s riverbanks are fragile—use established access points, pack out all trash, and choose outfitters that practice Leave No Trace and river stewardship.
Summersville Dam’s construction in the 1960s created controlled releases that made the scheduled Gauley runs possible; the river has since become central to regional rafting culture.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Off-season training runs, Learning strokes in calm conditions
Challenges: Lower scheduled releases, Colder water temperatures
Spring sees fewer controlled releases; expect colder water and limited opportunities compared with fall.
summer
Best for: Multi-day trip staging, Warm weather camping
Challenges: Infrequent dam releases for full Upper Gauley runs, Higher visitor numbers at local lakes
Summer offers the warmest air temps but fewer full Upper Gauley releases—check the schedule with outfitters.
fall
Best for: Peak Gauley Season runs, Spectator culture and festivals
Challenges: Rapid sell-outs and crowded weekends, Cooler evenings at camp
Fall is prime: scheduled releases create the famous Gauley runs; book early and pack warm camp layers.
winter
Best for: Guide training and off-season skill work, Solitude on the water in calmer pools
Challenges: Very cold water, limited services, Operations often paused for seasonality
Winter sees minimal commercial runs; conditions are cold and many outfitters scale back operations.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe River ShoesEssential
Secure footing and toe protection while moving in and out of boats.
Quick-Dry LayersEssential
Layers that wick and dry fast keep you comfortable between runs and at camp.
Hydration Bladder or Clip BottleEssential
Hands-free hydration that stays with you in the raft.
Small Dry Bag (10–20L)Essential
Protects spare clothes, electronics, and warm layers on multi-day trips.
Common Questions
Do I need prior whitewater experience to join the Double Upper Gauley?
Yes—the trip expects participants to have previous whitewater rafting or paddling experience and the ability to follow guide commands in technical Class V conditions.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age is 16. Operators may request guardian waivers or additional forms for minors close to the age limit.
What should I wear on the river?
Wear quick-dry synthetic layers, a secure hat or none, river shoes with heel straps, and a PFD and helmet (usually provided by the outfitter). Avoid cotton.
Are meals included?
Lunch for full-day segments is typically provided; bring snacks and any personal dietary needs because options on-site can be limited.
How strenuous is the trip?
Expect sustained whitewater runs: bursts of high-intensity paddling, frequent bracing, and short recovery periods—appropriate for fit, experienced paddlers.
Will I be dry after a rapid?
No—swims and full-boat immersions are possible. Pack a change of clothes and a warm layer for after the day’s last run.
What to Pack
River shoes with heel straps, quick-dry layers, hydration bladder, small dry bag—each protects comfort and safety on the water.
Did You Know
The Scheduled ‘Gauley Season’ in the fall is made possible by controlled releases from Summersville Dam, creating some of the world’s most concentrated Class V whitewater.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early for fall release windows; plan for patchy cell service; bring cash for last-minute gear or tips; confirm meeting time and location in advance.
Local Flavor
After the trip head to nearby Fayetteville or Summersville for locally owned restaurants and pubs—think heavy comfort food and regional Appalachian fare—perfect for sore muscles and big appetites. Local breweries and taprooms in the region offer a relaxed post-raft scene and opportunities to swap stories with other paddlers.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Charleston Yeager Airport (CRW). Driving distance from Charleston: ~60–80 miles (~1–1.5 hours). Meeting point: 115 Oscar White Rd., Lansing, WV. Cell service: patchy in the gorge—download maps and inform a contact of your plans. Permits: none for private paddlers, but commercial trips require reservation and signed waivers.
Sustainability Note
The Gauley corridor is ecologically sensitive—pack out all trash, avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation, and choose outfitter partners who follow Leave No Trace practices and support river stewardship.