5K+ Adventures 4.8 Avg Book Direct

Adventure, Curated

Explore 5,000+ human-powered experiences — handpicked outdoor adventures for all skill levels with max stoke, zero hassle.

Local Legends, Real Reviews

We partner with the best in the business — trusted local outfitters and guides who know the trails, tides, and terrain. Backed by 185,000+ reviews, averaging 4.8⭐

Book Direct, Best Price Guarantee

Get the best price, availability, and flexibility you need by booking directly with the outfitter or guide.

Protect What You Love

Your adventure gives back. Every booking supports conservation and keeps wild places wild.

logo

Upper Gauley Whitewater Rafting Trip

Guided ·
5.0
See all whitewater rafting trips in Oak Hill
Locally Owned
Shuttle Included
Instant Book
Duration: 6 hours

Pricing

Group of 2 | Age 11+

Select the number of people | Ages 11+

$600
Group of 2 | Age 16+
$600
Group of 4-12 | Age 16+

Select the number of people | Ages 16+

$185

All Prices

Group of 2 | Age 11+

Select the number of people | Ages 11+

$600
Group of 2 | Age 16+
$600
Group of 4-12 | Age 16+

Select the number of people | Ages 16+

$185
Group of 13-24 | Age 16+

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

$150
Group of 25+ | Age 16+

Select the number of people | Ages 16+ | 30% Off!

$135
Private Raft (includes up to 8 guests per raft)

Select the number of total rafts

$1,999

Description

Full Day Upper Gauley Whitewater Rafting Trip with Lunch

Get ready to experience high-adrenaline rafting on the Gauley River’s Class IV/V rapids, including the infamous drop over Sweet’s Falls! This is a great trip for those with previous rafting experience who want to take on new challenges at a whole new level with one of our expert guides. This amazing adventure 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.
The day starts by checking in at our BaseCamp and meeting the trip leader and your expert guide, who answer any questions or concerns you have and outfit everyone 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 go over safety instructions, get you ready for what to expect, and give you one last chance to back out!
At the river, you board the raft with your group and your guide, and you immediately enter the Gauley River with dam water being actively released. Start to paddle and feel that rush of excitement as the trip gets off to a quick start! The river terrain is impressive, with huge boulders, dramatic drops, and quick changes in expanse and elevation.
Although subject to change based on conditions, we typically take lunch just after running Sweet’s Falls, with prime viewing of other rafts. Cheer their successes, wince at their failures, and cheer their recoveries! Lunch is a hearty buffet, including build-your-own sandwiches, fresh fruit, sides, snacks, and dessert. (If you have special dietary needs, please let us know when you make the reservation so we can accommodate them.)
You finish the last section of the Upper Gauley, then unwind and relive the awesome moments of the day as we head back to BaseCamp!

Duration

  1. 6 hours
  2. 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. meet time
  3. 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. return time

Location / Where to Meet

West Virginia Adventures

Ages & Requirements

Minimum Age: 16+
Previous rafting experience is required for this Class IV/V trip.

What's Included

  1. Experienced guide in every raft
  2. All rafting & safety equipment
  3. Catered lunch
  4. Shuttle to/from the river

Not Included

  1. Wetsuits (available to rent)
  2. Splash tops (available to rent)
  3. Gratuity

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Secure footwear, such as old sneakers or river sandals with a heel strap (Chacos, Tevas)
  2. Swimsuit, shorts & synthetic t-shirt (No cotton!)
  3. Long-sleeve fleece tops, synthetic bottoms, wool socks, and/or wetsuits are recommended during cold weather
  4. Sunglasses with a retaining strap
  5. Personal medications (inhaler, Epi pen, heart medication)
  6. Waterproof camera or GoPro
  7. 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

  1. 30 days' notice - 50% refund
  2. 3-29 days' notice: no refunds, trips may be rescheduled for guest convenience at no cost.
  3. 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.
Read more
Read more

Availability

September 2027
SuMoTuWeThFrSa

Reviews

Location

Address

286 Sunday Road

Hico, WV, 25854

US

Get Directions

ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT

Check Availability

Explore More