Comprehensive Guide to Whitewater Kayaking on the Upper Gauley River
The Upper Gauley River in West Virginia is renowned for its challenging whitewater kayaking experience, offering a thrilling adventure for experienced paddlers. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your whitewater kayaking trip on the Upper Gauley River.
When is the Best Time to Go Whitewater Kayaking on the Upper Gauley River?
The best time to go whitewater kayaking on the Upper Gauley River is during the Fall Gauley Releases, which typically occur from the first weekend after Labor Day through six weekends, culminating in Bridge Day weekend. This period is ideal due to the scheduled dam releases from Summersville Dam, which provide consistent and powerful water flows, typically between 2400 and 2800 cubic feet per second (cfs).
What are the Class V Rapids and Characteristics on the Upper Gauley River?
The Upper Gauley River is renowned for its challenging Class V rapids. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- What is Initiation Rapid (Mile 0.8)?
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This rapid features three drops with significant moves, including submerged boulders and a hole in the center-right of the second drop. Avoid the hole and undercut rocks on the right.
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What is Insignificant Rapid (Mile 2.8)?
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A long rapid with a big pour-over at the top and a large undercut rock halfway down on the right. The name “Insignificant” was given after the first trip down reported “nothing significant before Pillow”.
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What is Pillow Rock Rapid (Mile 4.1)?
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Known for the pillow that forms off a massive boulder on the left. This rapid includes a hydraulic feature called Toilet Bowl and Volkswagen Rock.
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What is Lost Paddle Rapid (Mile 5.5)?
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A series of four drops with waves known as Hawaii Five-O. There are sieves throughout this rapid, making it particularly hazardous.
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What is Iron Ring Rapid (Mile 6.9)?
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Two drops, with the second drop featuring a hole formed by a rock known as Woodstock. This is one of the most difficult rapids at both higher and lower flows.
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What is Sweet’s Falls Rapid (Mile 8.1)?
- A 12-foot drop with a rock on the left side known as Dildo, which can stop rafts and eject passengers. Below this rapid is Postage Due, a big rock that can flip rafts.
What Safety Considerations Should I Keep in Mind for Whitewater Kayaking on the Upper Gauley River?
- Guides and Experience: Due to the extreme difficulty of these rapids, it is highly recommended to have experienced guides or to be an advanced kayaker.
- Equipment: Ensure you have proper kayaking gear, including a helmet, personal flotation device (PFD), and a kayak designed for whitewater.
- Weather and Water Conditions: Be aware of the water levels and weather conditions. The Gauley River can be colder due to its dam-release nature, so consider wearing synthetic layers or renting wetsuits and splash jackets if necessary.
Where Can I Launch and Take Out for Whitewater Kayaking on the Upper Gauley River?
- Put-In: The put-in for the Upper Gauley River is below Summersville Dam. At very high water, this put-in can have intense eddy lines.
- Take-Out: The take-out is typically at Mason Branch, which requires a hike up “kayaker’s nightmare” hill, or above or below Ender Waves.
What are the Typical Kayak Tour Specifications for the Upper Gauley River?
- Duration: Full-day trips are common, lasting between 5-6 hours on the water, plus shuttle time.
- Costs: Prices for guided tours start around $119, which includes transportation, equipment, and a riverside lunch.
- Required Gear: Bring necessary medications, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a change of clothes. Guides will provide rafting equipment, but you may need to rent additional gear like wetsuits.