Gauley River National Recreation Area

The Gauley River National Recreation Area in southern West Virginia protects a 25-mile stretch of the Gauley River and a 5.5-mile stretch of the Meadow River. It is located near Summersville, West Virginia. The river is the only way to get around most of the national recreation area.

The Gauley, like the New and Bluestone Rivers, has carved a gorge that is home to a variety and abundant species. Many rare and threatened species live in oak, beech, yellow poplar, hemlock, and dogwood forests, including the Allegheny woodrat, cerulean warbler, eastern hellbender, and finescale saddled darter. Some plant communities rely on high-energy rivers like the Gauley for survival. The Gauley River is a prime example of a high-energy system that sustains uncommon plant species and their ecosystems. Virginia Spiraea, Appalachian Blue Violet, and Balsam Squaw-weed are among the rare flora found here.

The Gauley River National Recreation Area, established to protect a 25-mile length of the Gauley River, is a remote park best renowned for its tremendous whitewater rafting, often regarded as some of the greatest in the world. The upper section of the river necessitates rafting experience, but the lower section is gentler, and numerous local outfitters offer rafting tours for people of all skill levels. If you want to do something a little less strenuous, the river also has good fishing, and tourists may bring their own gear or organize a tour with a local firm.

Address: 36 Fayette Station Rd, Victor, WV 25938, United States

Phone: +1 304-465-0508

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 278 Google review

Website: https://www.nps.gov/gari/index.htm