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Extreme Upper Gauley - Trip #17
ACE pioneered this whitewater rafting trip over 15 years ago. At that time, using 12-foot rafts on the Upper Gauley was unthinkable.
Don’t try Team Extreme unless you’re in good physical shape and not intimidated by the prospect of swimming in some very powerful rapids.
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Trip Description
Whitewater Rafting on the Upper Gauley...Like a Hero
On a Team Extreme trip, we emphasize teamwork and shared adventure in an instructional format. You’ll be taught a number of advanced techniques. You’ll learn weight shifts, paddling draws and braces that are required moves when you’re running this small of a raft in the Team Extreme format. You’ll also have to demonstrate personal self-rescue skills as well as the methods of getting swimmer back into the boat immediately…and you’ll probably have opportunities to put these skills to use! Team Extreme paddlers explore routes through rapids where others can only watch. They surf holes usually only surfed by kayakers. In every rapid, your guide will explain the options and you choose how aggressive a line you want to run…if he or she has the crew to pull it off. It’s a wild and crazy ride on one of America’s most demanding rivers. Obviously, Team Extreme trips make for some pretty entertaining videos. As your video is played after the trip, you’ll notice just about everyone in the vicinity is checking out the Team Extreme tape. Some may be questioning your sanity, but most will just be impressed with what you’ve done with that maximum thrill boat. Because of the limited raft capacity, Team Extreme Whitewater Rafting trips are booked only in multiples of 4 or 5. If you have a larger group you can request a Premier 14 Foot Raft or a Traditional 16 foot Raft. And make sure that everyone in your little group is physically up to a very harsh and strenuous day. This is definitely not a trip for first-time rafters. Make absolutely sure that everyone knows what they’re getting into. Strong swimming skills and previous class V rafting are a must. Don't forget we run the Gauley all summer long on our Advanced Spring/Summer Gauley Trip. Trip Format
The Upper Gauley Twice in a 12' Extreme Raft
Your 12-foot raft will offer even more adventure as you maneuver through the rocks for the best possible ride. This trip is recommended for experienced rafters.
The Season
Autumn Whitewater Rafting on the Gauley
What To Wear
What To Wear And Bring
Lunch
Gourmet Lunch
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ACE invented this whitewater rafting trip over 17 years ago and it’s grown in popularity ever since. Let our bravest guides show you the wildest whitewater rafting ride on the Gauley! It all began when ACE introduced 12-foot, 4+ person self bailing maximum thrill rafts to West Virginia. Our guides began using them on the Gauley on their days off pretty soon it became apparent that, in the hands of a highly-skilled professional, these rafts could be used to take experienced guests, who want the wildest trip possible, down the Upper Gauley River.
The Upper Gauley is full force excitement. Seven Class V-V+ rapids, one being the infamous 14-foot waterfall known as "Sweet's Falls." Crowds of people stick around Sweet's to watch the other boats come through. Once you are through, you can join in the stadium atmosphere as you enjoy your hot grilled lunch and anticipate more massive waves in the afternoon.
Autumn colors and a festive atmosphere! Water is warmer as the season progresses into the end of October. This is due to the fact that at the beginning of the season, water is coming off the very bottom of the lake, and towards the end of the draw down the water is coming from closer to the top of the lake where it has been warmed by the sun. Wetsuits are highly recommended. This river is rated No. 2 in North America and No. 6 in the World. It's know for it's whitewater during the fall flow.
Pile, wool or acrylic sweater Polyester or wool long johns wool and/or rubber gloves, ski Cap Nylon Windbreaker Wetsuits and neoprene booties are strongly recommended. Wetsuits are available for rent at ACE. NO COTTON!!!!!!
Hot grilled lunch at Sweet's Falls. Watch the thrills and spills as other rafters take on the single biggest drop on the Gauley! Primitive bathroom facilities and a covered eating area are exclusive to ACE's lunch spot. Heaters will warm you up on chilly fall days as you eat and watch the most exciting rapid of the day from your front row seat ACE provides!
