Why choose between the Upper or the Lower Gauley? Do them both with our Classic Gauley Marathon. You’ll run almost 100 rapids and see everything the Gauley has to offer.

Trip Description

Whitewater Rafting 23 miles of the Whole Gauley River in One Day

The Upper and Lower Gauley River Sections together form one of the most spectacular sections of whitewater on the planet. With over 23 miles of whitewater, these two sections boast about 100 rapids – with more on the Lower than the Upper. Still, that being said, only a small percentage of the 60,000 whitewater enthusiasts who raft the Gauley each year run the Lower – a big mistake.

Everybody knows about the Upper G’s Big Five: Insignificant, Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, Iron Ring, and Sweet’s Falls. Fewer people know that two of the biggest hits on the entire river – Pure Screaming Hell and Lower Mash – are on the Lower Gauley! Plus, ACE’s jump rock on the Lower Gauley, “BFR #2,” is the biggest jump rock on any trip. The Lower is the perfect complement to the Upper.

Our Classic Gauley Marathon lets you run the entire river in one incredible day. That means over 23 miles of whitewater and 100 memorable rapids. You’ll put on at the dam early, ahead of other Upper G River trips – you’ll have the river all to yourself. And, since there’s only one shuttle drive for the Marathon (instead of two to run an Upper and Lower trip on separate days), the Marathon is the most whitewater for the best price. You can’t beat that!

Our Marathon guides know how to keep the boat in the current. Plus, our Sugar Creek takeout is just below the last major rapid, and 3 ½ miles upstream of the takeouts other companies use. Don’t worry, you aren’t missing out. It’s 3 ½ miles of flatwater!

Our Classic Gauley Marathon lets you run the entire river in one incredible day. That’s over 23 miles and 100 memorable rapids. The Marathon trip leaves early in the morning and actually gets back to ACE about the same time as most of our Lower Gauley trips. Because the guides stay in the current throughout the day, the Marathon is only about 1-1/2 hours longer than the length of the normal Upper Gauley trip.

If you really can’t get enough whitewater, we’ve got the Gauley Marathon Riverside Overnight for our most whitewater zealous guests. This gives you two days of Gauley River Marathons and riverside camping at Sugar Creek.

If you’re comparing outfitters, remember that only ACE has a take-out just below the last major rapid on the Gauley. (If you book a Marathon with another company, you’re going to endure 3-1/2 miles of flatwater at the end of your trip.) Try an ACE Marathon this Fall and you’ll see why it’s fast becoming one of our most popular Gauley trips.

Trip Format

The Whole Gauley in a 14' Premier Raft

The Gauley Marathon offers the longest stretch of continuous white water in on day. After maneuvering Lost Paddle Canyon, you will run Sweet's Fals and stop for front row seats of other rafters running the 14-foot drop as you enjoy a hot grilled lunch. Continue down the Gauley and take-out at Sugar Creek. This is our own private take-out, which cuts out 3.5 miles of flatwater other companies have to paddle.

The 14-foot rafts are lighter and more maneuverable, which makes a long day seem easier. They are able to take more extreme lines and surf in smaller holes.

The Season

Autumn whitewater rafting on the Gauley

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 known for it's whitewater during the fall flow.

What To Wear

What To Wear And Bring

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!!!!!!

Lunch

Gourmet Lunch

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!

River Map

Rapids of The Gauley River