Gauley River National Recreation Area - West Virginia

Address:Glen Jean, West Virginia
Tel: (304) 465-0508

Extreme adventurers of the world, take note. Whitewater rafting, the main attraction of Gauley River, is to be attempted only by visitors experienced in very high-level rafting. If you're not a pro, don't despair. Watching rafters swish and swirl (or occasionally flip) down this winding, world-class river can be just as fun. The Summersville Dam tailwaters area should provide a good viewpoint. Camping, hunting, and fishing rival the rafting, as do other water activities such as canoeing and kayaking. The beautiful valleys provide a stunning backdrop to the excitement of the roaring rapids.

The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The Gauley River contains several class V+ rapids, making it one of the most adventurous white water boating rivers in the east.