“The Gauley River — one of North America's premier whitewater rivers — slicing through forested canyon in West Virginia. Powerful rapids, dense Appalachian forest, and raw river canyon aesthetics.”
About This Location
Gauley River National Recreation Area in the New River Gorge region of West Virginia protects one of the most powerful and challenging whitewater rivers in eastern North America. Below Summersville Dam, the Gauley River drops 668 feet over 26 miles through a dense Appalachian forest canyon — creating Class IV and V rapids amid spectacular river gorge scenery. Above the dam, Summersville Lake's surprisingly turquoise water surrounded by sandstone cliffs is a distinct and visually stunning contrast. The NRA is managed in coordination with New River Gorge National Park nearby. Commercial filming permits required through the New River Gorge permit office at 304-465-0508. Scheduled dam releases in September and October create the highest water flows — prime rafting season and most dramatic water cinematography windows. For productions needing authentic Appalachian river canyon aesthetics — rugged, wooded, raw — the Gauley is one of the East's finest locations.
Color Palette
Location
📍 Open in Google Maps →Permit Information
Permit Required
Type
NPS Commercial Film Permit
Fee
Varies – NPS location fee + cost recovery
Contact
Gauley River NRA – New River Gorge NP Permit Office
Contact Permit Office
📞 304-465-0508Managed in conjunction with New River Gorge National Park. Primary season is fall (September–October dam releases).
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