Gauley River National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Wild and Wonderful

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.

The Gauley River National Recreation Area is managed by New River Gorge National River. For more information about National Park Service lands and facilities in the area, visit the New River Gorge National River web site.

		Gauley River Whitewater Dropping more than 668 feet through 28 miles of rugged terrain, the Gauley River's complex stretch of whitewater features more than 100 rapids with a steep gradient, technical runs, an incredible volume of water and huge waves. Its vigorous rapids, scenic quality and inaccessibility combine to make Gauley River one of the premier whitewater runs in the world. more...

		Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park Nestled on the rim of the Gauley River Canyon near Summersville, West Virginia, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is an important Civil War battle site. This Civil War battle represented the failure of a Confederate drive to regain control of the Kanawha Valley. more...

		America's Best Idea A 6-part film on America’s National Parks from legendary documentary filmmaker Ken Burns begins airing September 27, 2009 on public television. More information on the series is available at the PBS National Parks website.

Write to

P. O. Box 246
Glen Jean, WV 25846

E-mail Us

Phone

Park Headquarters
(304) 465-0508

Canyon Rim Visitor Center
(304) 574-2115

Fax

(304) 465-0591

Climate

Weather in the Gauley River area is seasonal, and the climate generally mild. Winter can bring significant snowfall, but it is usually short-lived. Summers can be warm and humid.