Gauley River National Recreation Area hosts world class whitewater opportunities. With the Gauley River dropping 26 feet per mile and the adjacent Meadow River dropping 71 feet per mile, over 60,000 visitors come here each year for whitewater rafting. Twenty-three rapids greet whitewater enthusiasts on the Gauley. Within the protected area of the Meadow River there are 11 rapids. With all this whitewater, kayaking is a popular activity. Visitors also camp, fish, hunt, bike, and hike.

The Gauley River National Recreation Area was designated as part of the National Park system in 1988. It contains 25 miles of the Gauley River and 5 miles of the neighboring Meadow River. It lies 7 miles north of the larger New River Gorge National River and is managed by the same staff as the New River Gorge National River.

If You Go

GauleyFest, typically held in September, attracts whitewater enthusiasts for an annual celebration of the river and recreation on the river. The festival features boating, live entertainment, and festival events.

—Yves Corbiere

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