Gauley Animal Race

Get ready for the wildest river competition of the season—the Gauley Animal Race! Taking place on the Upper Gauley River, this adrenaline-packed event will push paddlers to their limits across a challenging 9.8-mile stretch of continuous class IV/IV+ whitewater. With multiple craft categories including kayaks and rafts, racers will charge into the river from the lower put-in of Summersville Dam in a chaotic mass start. From there, it’s a fierce battle of endurance, skill, and speed as they race downriver toward the finish line at Postage Due Rock in Sweets Falls Rapid.

Dubbed the “Beast of the East”, the Gauley River demands respect and mastery. Participants will need bracing, stamina, precision, and big-water experience to navigate its powerful rapids and avoid trouble along the way. This race isn’t just about speed—it’s about survival, skill, and mastering one of the East Coast’s most notorious rivers.

Whether you’re racing or spectating, come be part of the action and experience the energy of Gauley Season like never before!