Rivers

THE CHEAT - Ranging from leisurely, lazy, and lovely to raucous and raging, this northern West Virginia river develops Class III-V+ rapids with the advent of spring rain and winter snow runoff.

THE GAULEY - The East's ultimate whitewater river challenges rafters with 75 Class III-V+ rapids in the spring (from adequate winter snowfall, rainfall and ensuing runoff) and fall (corresponding with scheduled releases from Summersville Dam by the Army Corps of Engineers).

THE NEW - The gorge cut by this ancient river is justifiably called "The Grand Canyon of the East." Sections of the river can be rafted, kayaked or canoed in spring, summer and fall. Class I-V.

THE TYGART - This picturesque river claims rapids ranging from class I-V+ during its spring season, including Wells Falls, the most powerful runable drop in north central West Virginia. Another highlight, Valley Falls offers a short, but intense 25-foot waterslide.

THE GREENBRIER - Flowing for 150 miles past several state parks and forests and interesting old logging communities, the Greenbrier is one of the state's premiere canoeing rivers. Class I-III+.

SOUTH BRANCH OF THE POTOMAC - Another favorite canoeing river, the South Branch flows through the Potomac Highlands, a region of numerous recreational pursuits. Noted sections include "The Trough" and the "Smoke Hole." Class I-VI.

THE BLUESTONE - This tributary of the New River is runable by raft and canoe only when swollen by spring rains. It is an exhilarating, rapid-filled ride through a spectacular narrow gorge. Class I-IV.

THE MEADOW - Another ephemeral whitewater river, the Meadow is runable in the spring usually on short notice. One section boasts sixty rapids in eight miles, ranging from Class III-V+.

THE SHENANDOAH - This eastern panhandle river is ideal for the first-time paddler. The banks are loaded with history and pastoral scenic beauty. One popular stretch begins above Harpers Ferry and has Class I-III rapids.

THE ELK RIVER (above Sutton Lake) - The Elk has beautiful scenery and class I-III (IV) whitewater ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers.