Park Passport

Gauley River National Recreation Area WV

Lat, Long: 38.20614947, -81.00420836

Designation: National Recreation Area

The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The Gauley River contains several class V+ rapids, making it one of the most adventurous white water boating rivers in the east.

Weather:

Weather in the Appalachian Mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly. Always be prepared for the possibility of sudden storms. Weather in the mountains is often cooler and wetter than the surrounding area. On average, the warmest month is July. The maximum average precipitation also occurs in July.

Directions:

Plane The largest airport is at Charleston, about 65 miles from Summersville. There are also small airports at Summersville and Beckley. Car The main entrance to Gauley River National Recreation Area is located off US Route 19 south of Summersville and north of Fayetteville, West Virginia. Turn off US Route 19 onto WV Route 129 toward Summersville Dam. Take the second left after you cross over the dam and follow the signs to Gauley River.

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Address/Contact:

Gauley River National Recreation Area

Glen Jean, US, 25846-0246

Phone: 304-465-0508

Email: neri_interpretation@nps.gov

Entrance Fees:

Rafters enjoying the Gauley RiverRafting on the Gauley RiverTrying to stay in the raft on the Gauley RiverRafting on Gauley River before Sweets Falls fapidWatching the boats come by on the Gauley RiverKayakers coming through Pillow Rock rapid on Gauley RiverTapping the rock at Pillow Rock rapid on the Gauley RiverGuiding through a rapid on the Gauley RiverOne of the many rapids on the Gauley River