🚣 River
Gauley River (Dam Release Season)
About This Permit
The Gauley River during fall dam releases is widely considered the premier east coast whitewater experience — 28 miles of continuous Class IV–V rapids (105 rapids total) through a gorge-carved canyon in West Virginia. The Army Corps releases water from Summersville Dam on approximately 6 weekends each fall, creating the brief window for paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Gauley release season happen?
The Army Corps of Engineers typically schedules 6 release weekends in September and October to reduce Summersville Reservoir levels for flood control. Exact dates are announced each year and draw large crowds of commercial and private paddlers.
Is the Gauley appropriate for intermediate paddlers?
No — the Upper Gauley during releases is Class IV–V, appropriate only for experienced whitewater paddlers. Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, and Iron Ring are among the most challenging commercially run rapids in the eastern US. The Lower Gauley is somewhat more forgiving at Class IV.
Do private boaters need a permit for the Gauley?
No — private boaters do not need a permit or reservation for the Gauley release season. Noncommercial paddlers can launch freely on any release day. Only commercial outfitters are regulated. Many paddlers also opt for commercial guided trips, which handle their own licensing separately.
Key Facts
- State
- WV
- Float Season
- 22–23 release days over 6 weekends in September–October: first 5 weekends Fri–Mon (4 days each), final weekend Sat–Sun only (e.g. 2024 season: Sept 6 – Oct 19)
- Launch Quota
- No permits or quotas for private boaters — noncommercial paddlers launch freely; commercial outfitters are regulated separately
- Put-in
- Summersville Dam put-in (Upper Gauley) or Peters Creek (Lower Gauley)
- Take-out
- Swiss or Resurrection takeout; New River Gorge NRA
- Difficulty to get permit
- 4/5(Very hard)
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