The Gauley River is truly one of the rare jewels of World Class Whitewater. It combines the awesome power of a big water river with tight, technical whitewater that is nearly continuous from beginning to end. The Gauley is rated by many as the best whitewater trip in the world! This river is a dam released river with its water source at Summersville Lake, the states largest man-made lake. Each fall the Army Corp. of Engineers releases the water at Summersville dam in order to bring the lake to its winter pool levels. The optimum whitewater release is near 2400 cubic feet per second. This release is scheduled in cooperation with whitewater outfitters to insure optimum flow for rafting on the Gauley River. With two distinct twelve-mile sections, this river boasts over 75 major rapids ranging from Class III - V! Trips are usually 6 to 8 hours on the water, depending on water levels and are provided by ACE.

Travel south to reach the biggest and baddest whitewater in the East. You'll be glad you did. The moment you arrive you’ll know you’re in the epicenter of Wild, Wonderful West Virginia Whitewater. Nestled in the heart of the Southern West Virginia’s Appalachian Highlands, ACE's basecamp is easy to get to but hard to leave. Share the border with the stunning New River Gorge National River, directly under the world famous New River Gorge Bridge (site of an annual B.A.S.E. and bungee jumping festival). It takes about five and a half hours to get here from Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, MD. The excitement and natural beauty of our rivers and canyons will propel you into an unforgettable and unmatched rafting adventure on America's Best Whitewater.

Whitewater on the Upper Gauley
This section of the Gauley River is described by the book "Wildwater West Virginia" as '12 miles of the swirling, crashing, pounding end.' and is worth every adjective. It is truly considered world-class and beckons only serious whitewater enthusiasts. Continuous rapids demand your constant attention, as well as the guide's. Technical maneuvering allows passage through narrow chutes and rocky ledges. If you crave non-stop action, this is the trip for you. (Minimum age is 15 years old.) Previous rafting experience is recommended.

Whitewater on the Lower Gauley
The Lower Section of the Gauley is often overlooked because of the World Class fame of the Lower New and the fact that it is suitable for first timers. The Lower Gauley is the perfect next step for those who have rafted the New and are looking for a bigger challenge. Recommended for intermediate rafters age 12 and up, this section of river is characterized by over 35 major rapids with names like "Pure Screaming Hell", "Canyon Doors" and "Heaven Help Us", providing excitement for all those who meet its challenge. There are pools below each rapid to pick up any swimmers. This feature allows us to run first-timers on this truly unusual big water whitewater river. Scenic beauty and crisp, clean water are highlights of this trip most simply noted as breathtaking! (Minimum age is 12 years old.)

Traditional Fall Upper Gauley - Trip #116
This is the first whitewater rafting trip of the day on the Upper Gauley…a very early start. We use the larger boats that can moderate the ride…and less chance for an unscheduled swim. Lunch is included and you’ll be back to ACE early in the afternoon. The Upper Gauley is full force excitement. Seven Class V-V+ rapids, one being the infamous 14-foot waterfall known as "Sweet's Falls." Crowds of people stick around Sweet's to watch the other boats come through. Once you are through, you can join in the stadium atmosphere as you enjoy your hot grilled lunch and anticipate more massive waves in the afternoon. Your 14-foot raft will offer even more adventure as you maneuver through the rocks for the best possible ride. This trip is recommended for experienced rafters.

Traditional Fall Lower Gauley - Trip #115
Our Traditional Lower Gauley trip is run in 16-foot, 9-10 person rafts, the industry standard, to take a little intensity out of the giant Lower Gauley waves and make it more suitable for the less adventurous rafter. But have no fear; all of the Lower Gauley fun is still included. This is an amazing rafting trip for families and first-timers!

Classic Riverside Overnight - #121
Take a whitewater rafting trip on both stretches of the Gauley without ever leaving the canyon gorge on this overnight trip. Day one: embark down the Upper Gauley with pounding whitewater. Relax by the fire that evening. Day two: take in the stunning cliff walls of the Lower Gauley and the sparking whitewater. This is a continuous river trip, after whitewater rafting on the Upper Gauley camp overnight at Wood's Ferry just below the Upper Gauley take-out. Then we put-in from our overnight campsite and run the Lower Gauley. If you want to run the entire river top to bottom this is the best way o do it.
Minimum Age: 15 yrs
Meals provided: Day 1: Lunch/dinner Day 2: Breakfast/lunch

Overnight Trips:
Classic Riverside Overnight - #121
Adult Fri/Sat: $320.00 Adult Sat/Sun: $335.00 Adult Sun/Mon: $290.00