Summer Gauley River Rafting

IS THIS TRIP PERFECT FOR YOU?

Do you have an adventurous spirit, always looking for new, unique experiences? Do you enjoy challenges, pushing yourself physically, mentally, or both? Are you adaptable, ready to adjust with fluctuating water levels in order to access some of the best whitewater on the planet? If so, ACE’s Summer Gauley trip was designed for you! Our guides’ goal is to get you to the best section of Gauley River whitewater, but due to the constantly varying water levels, we often will not know the section or the type of craft we will go in until the morning of the trip. Whether in a raft or inflatable kayak, our guides are determined to give you the instruction and guidance necessary to facilitate a Gauley whitewater experience like none other!

MORE TRIP DETAILS:

First thing in the morning at your trip check in, you will meet you Trip Leader and find out what section of the Gauley you will be paddling and as well as what type of craft. On days when the Gauley has water levels suitable for rafts, our guides will take you in 12’ rafts designed to carry 4-5 paddlers.

On low-water days, you and your guides will paddle inflatable kayaks, also known as “duckys.” When you arrive at the river, your guides will give you specific instructions for paddling, explaining how to successfully maneuver, in a raft or ducky, through the mazes of house-sized rocks and over cascading waterfalls. The Gauley River is steep and technical, requiring special instruction not only on paddling, but also shifting weight, high-siding, and making calculated spins off of rocks.

While paddling through the remote Gauley River gorge, you may have the opportunity to stop and scout a rapid with your guide. Hear about what the guides are taking into account in order to determine the best route through a rapid. Other opportunities like jumping off a rock or even swimming through a rapid may present themselves. These activities will largely be determined by the section of Gauley you are paddling, but are incorporated into most trips.

On ducky trips, the guides will strategically place themselves throughout the rapids, providing a continuous stream of instruction and encouragement while you paddle yourself from top to bottom. All trips will stop for a riverside lunch, resting and refueling while soaking in the sights and sounds of the river. The Gauley River is extremely remote, and it is common for trips in the Summer to not see anyone else outside of the group. This aspect, along with the high quality of adventurous whitewater make Summer Gauley trips one of a kind.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Remote, scenic whitewater
• Authentic, secluded experience in nature
• Riverside lunch
• The most adventurous trip we offer

TRIP TIPS

• Prior rafting experience is highly recommended, this is not a beginner-friendly trip!
• Learn from ACE’s most experienced guides. Highly skilled & equally passionate about what they do, our Summer Gauley guides are top-notch.
• The river and section that we run will be based on current water levels the day of your trip. We will take you to the best stretch available that day.
• Complimentary riverside lunch inlcuded!
• Summer Gauley rafting trips require a minimum of 5 people.
• 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!

TRIP PHOTOS AND VIDEO

• Waterproof cameras/GoPros are allowed on ACE rafting trips.
• Whitewater Photography will take photos along the way for purchase after the trip in the Outfitter store at ACE.
• Most trips have a trip video, but it is not guaranteed your trip will be shot unless you pre-pay.