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Gauley Marathon - Upper & Lower Gauley Rafting Trip

Guided ·

5.0

See all whitewater rafting trips in Oak Hill

Locally Owned

Shuttle Included

Instant Book

This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available

Duration: 9 hours

Pricing

Group of 2 | Age 16+

$600

Group of 4-12 | Age 16+

Select the number of people | Ages 16+

$285

Group of 13-24 | Age 16+

Select the number of people | Ages 16+ | 20% Off!

$265

Description

Gauley Marathon Double Header - Full 26-Mile Gauley Rafting Trip

A double treat, this adventure starts with high-adrenaline rafting on the Gauley River’s Class IV/V rapids, including the infamous drop over Sweet’s Falls! This amazing marathon includes a catered lunch, usually with a great view of the other rafts, where you can cheer and witness the good, bad, and ugly attempts over the falls. After lunch, the excursion continues with a special extended trip down the Lower Gauley, with Class III/IV rapids that most people never see. It’s true 26-mile rafting marathon, ideal for experienced rafters!

The adventure begins by checking in at our BaseCamp and meeting the trip leader and your expert guide, who answer your questions and get you outfitted with a paddle, PFD (flotation/lifejacket), and helmet. Fall weather is variable, and wetsuits are available for rent if appropriate. On the bus ride to the river, we cover safety instructions, get you ready for what to expect, and give you one last chance to back out!

As soon as we reach the river, your marathon begins immediately as you enter Gauley River with dam water being actively released. Start paddling and feel that rush of excitement as the trip gets off to a quick start! The river terrain is impressive, with its huge boulders, dramatic drops, and quick changes in expanse and elevation.

We typically take lunch just after running Sweet’s Falls, with prime viewing of other rafts. We cheer their successes, wince at their failures, and celebrate their recoveries! Lunch is a hearty buffet, including build-your-own sandwiches, sides, snacks, fresh fruit, and dessert. (If you have special dietary needs, please notify us when you make your reservation so we can accommodate them.)

After lunch, we proceed down the Lower Gauley. This trip is filled with history about the Native Americans, Civil War battles, and the creation of the Summersville Dam (including the flooding of the Village of Gad). The trip ends in the quiet rolling countryside, where you board the bus that takes you back to BaseCamp.

Duration

9 hours
9 a.m. meet time
6 p.m. return time

Location / Where to Meet

West Virginia Adventures

286 Sunday Rd, Hico, WV 25854

Ages & Requirements

Minimum Age: 16+

Previous rafting experience is required for this Class IV/V trip.

What's Included

Experienced guide in every raft
All rafting & safety equipment
Catered lunch
Shuttle to/from the river

Not Included

Wetsuits (available to rent)
Splash tops (available to rent)
Gratuity

What to Bring / Wear

Secure footwear, such as old sneakers or river sandals with a heel strap (Chacos, Tevas)
Swimsuit, shorts & synthetic t-shirt (No cotton!)
Long-sleeve fleece tops, synthetic bottoms, wool socks, and/or wetsuits are recommended during cold weather
Sunglasses with a retaining strap
Personal medications (inhaler, Epi pen, heart medication)
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Sunscreen

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY West Virginia Adventures

FAQs

Do I need prior rafting experience?

Yes, you should have prior rafting experience. This Class IV/V section is intense. It features big drops, powerful hydraulics, and continuous rapids like Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, and Sweet's Falls. If you don't have prior experience, start out on the New River or Lower Gauley!

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions at lunch?

Yes, just let us know in the designated space at checkout!

Is it appropriate to tip our guides?

Gratuity is not included but always appreciated if you enjoyed your trip.

What should we do with our keys and valuables?

Don't bring anything you don't want to lose! Leave your valuables in your car, and we'll have a secure place to stash your keys.

Cancellation Policy

30 days' notice - 50% refund
3-29 days' notice: no refunds, trips may be rescheduled for guest convenience at no cost.
Less than 72 hours' notice and/or No Shows: no refunds, no credit toward rescheduling.

Guests are NOT permitted to raft under the undue influence of any substance, prescription or recreational, or if they are deemed to be mentally, emotionally, or behaviorally unprepared or combative. Such situations will be subject to either the Rescheduling or Cancellation terms at the discretion of West Virginia Adventures.

Availability

October 2026

SuMoTuWeThFrSa

There is no instant booking availability for this adventure. Drop us a line using the contact form below and we'll do our best to help you book this adventure or suggest some alternative options

Reviews

Location

Address

286 Sunday Road

Hico, WV, 25854

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