*Spaces are limited and fill quickly. Gauley Season is only 6 weekends long!
Description
Not everybody wants to run the entire 26 miles and 66-70 heart pounding rapids on the Gauley River in a day, but some do. It’s a challenging run, and perhaps the most rewarding day of whitewater rafting around.
From beautiful mountains to some of the most challenging West Virginia whitewater rapids, the Gauley River rapids are a force to be reckoned with and completing the Gauley Marathon is a badge of honor you will never forget.
MORE DETAILS
Take on the entire 26 miles of rafting on the Gauley River in a single day with a Gauley Marathon with ACE. This trip is only recommended for experienced paddlers, and is physically demanding. You’ll experience all 8 class V rapids on the Gauley River, with the intense rafting on the Upper Gauley, and the mind-blowing scenery on the Lower Gauley. This (very) full day trip includes a hot riverside lunch prepared for you at Sweet’s Falls.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Experience all 8 class V rapids on the Gauley River
Run a marathon, without actually running (you can get one of those stickers, we won’t tell.)
Hot riverside lunch.
TRIP TIPS
We highly recommend bringing or renting a wetsuit and spray jacket.
Dress in layers. The mornings often start chilly and the conditions often transition to sunny and warm as the day progresses. You may need to peel off layers to stay comfortable.
This is one of the most physically challenging trips we offer in Gauley Season. You should be prepared to paddle hard but be rewarded with incredible adventure and fun.
Waivers are required for all participants.
Let us know about any food allergies or dietary restrictions prior to your arrival at ACE
Be sure to leave the jewelry, watches, and any other valuables behind. Your trip leader will secure your car keys in a safe place. Items are easily lost on the river!
FALL GAULEY SEASON
Fall Gauley Season, a bucket list item for many, is a legendary, unforgettable experience. Starting each September, the US Army Corp of Engineers releases the water from Summersville Lake for 6 weekends in a row. The water flows into the Gauley River, creating a run many consider to be the top single-day rafting trip in the world.
This scenic and remote river has two sections, one that is a pulse-pounding, wild, class V adventure, and another that is a little tamer. The Upper, more wild section of river boasts five class V+ rapids, including a 14-foot waterfall.
The Lower Gauley section is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful stretches of river that we run (and that’s saying something).
Gauley Season only happens once a year, don’t miss your chance!
TRIP PHOTOS AND VIDEO
Waterproof cameras/GoPros are allowed on ACE rafting trips.
An ACE photographer will take photos along the way for purchase after the trip in the Outfitter store at ACE Adventure Resort or here on our online store…
All Lower New River Gorge rafting trips will have a trip video, Upper New River Gorge trips will have a photographer only.
PLEASE NOTE!
In highly unusual circumstances we may have to change the section of river, or the river you are running, when extremely high water levels occur.
Ready to get away to New River Gorge country with ACE Adventure Resort? Choose an options below to explore our 5 acre waterpark, lodging at our resort, whitewater rafting and other adventures, vacation packages and more!