| Section of river: | Summersville Dam – Swiss |
| Difficulty: | Class 3-5 |
| Length: | |
| Season: | April – September |
| Best rapids: |
The Gauley River has whitewater rafting available in the spring, summer and fall. Spring and summer can bring unpredictable water levels and lots of challenges. Spring Gauley is generally run in rafts designed for big whitewater. With the snow melting and the river not crowded this trip is a rare treat for experienced rafters. Summer Gauley trips depend on the water levels; you could experience a duck on the Middle Gauley or paddle the Upper Gauley.
In the fall, the Gauley River features legendary whitewater. The Corps of Engineers release water from the Summersville Dam to turn the Gauley into one of the most talked about whitewater rafting rivers in West Virginia.
During these fall releases the upper section of the Gauley is an unforgettable trip full of class V+ whitewater, while the lower Gauley is a more adventurous trip for beginners wanting to experience the river.
