Oak Hill is a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Its location along the Gauley River makes it a prime place for whitewater rafting—a must-try for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. We especially like the Lower Gauley trips for their combination of exciting rapids and scenic beauty. If you’re after a day full of splashes and adventure, these tours deliver. Plus, if you’re new to rafting, don’t worry—the guides are experienced and make safety a top priority. For those seeking a more challenging ride, the Upper Gauley offers a heart-pumping experience that’s perfect for seasoned paddlers.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best rafting tours in Oak Hill, comparing their features, prices, and what makes each one special. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a full-day thrill, we’ve got options suited for different tastes and skill levels. Now, let’s explore what makes each tour stand out.
1. Whitewater Rafting on the Fall Lower Gauley – Friday
For around $122 per person, the Whitewater Rafting on the Fall Lower Gauley – Friday offers an exhilarating 6-hour adventure along a 10-mile stretch of river. This tour is perfect if you want an action-packed day that combines 50+ rapids ranging from class III to V with stunning scenery. No previous experience is necessary, as the guides are seasoned and focus on safety and fun.
What makes this trip stand out is its balance of challenging rapids and accessible fun for ages 12 and up. The trip includes a hot riverside lunch, giving you a chance to rest and soak in the views. The rapid variety and length make it an ideal choice for those who want a full day of adventure without the extreme commitment of the upper sections. Reviewers highlight the incredible scenery and smooth organization.
Bottom line: This tour packs a punch and is well-suited for families or first-timers looking to experience the thrill of whitewater without feeling overwhelmed.
$122 per person
2. Whitewater Rafting on the Fall Lower Gauley – Saturday
Matching the Friday trip in price at $122 per person, the Lower Gauley Saturday rafting trip provides the same 6-hour, 10-mile adventure with more or less identical features—50+ rapids, full-day excitement, and scenic beauty. Since the tour details mirror the Friday experience closely, it’s a great option if you prefer to raft on Saturday or want to compare availability.
While reviews for this specific day haven’t been provided, the consistent quality of the Gauley trips suggests you’ll get a well-organized, fun-filled day. The key benefit here is flexibility—if your schedule is open on Saturday, you won’t miss out on this classic Gauley experience.
Bottom line: Same great value and excitement as the Friday trip, making it a dependable choice for weekend warriors.
$122 per person
3. Whitewater Rafting on the Fall Upper Gauley – Saturday
For the more adventurous, the Upper Gauley Saturday trip is a full 7-hour, 12-mile journey that costs $143 per person. This tour is geared toward experienced rafters seeking extreme rafting. It features 50+ rapids and challenges even seasoned paddlers with its higher class IV and V rapids.
This trip’s highlight is its intensity—the longer duration and more difficult rapids make it perfect for thrill-seekers. The scenery remains spectacular, and the hot riverside lunch keeps everyone energized. What’s unique is the focus on adrenaline more than accessibility; guides typically have extensive experience, and the tour is recommended for those comfortable with technical whitewater.
Review snippets praise the excitement level, but note that this is not for beginners. The length and difficulty may require some physical fitness, but for those craving the ultimate Gauley experience, it’s worth every penny.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you’re an experienced rafter ready to push your limits with a full day of extreme whitewater.
$143 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Oak Hill
Picking between these options depends on your skill level, budget, and what kind of experience you want. If you’re new to whitewater or traveling with family, the Lower Gauley trips on Friday or Saturday offer a safe, fun, and scenic experience without overwhelming excitement. Both are priced similarly and include a riverside lunch, making them great value.
For seasoned rafters or those seeking a real challenge, the Upper Gauley delivers the most intense ride, but be prepared for a longer day and higher price. If your schedule is flexible, consider whether a weekday or weekend trip works best, as the experience is similar.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular Saturday trips, and always confirm your skill level matches the rapids’ difficulty.
Final Thoughts
The options in Oak Hill cover a broad spectrum—from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping whitewater. The Lower Gauley trips are reliable, exciting, and good value, offering a scenic adventure suitable for most beginners. The Upper Gauley appeals to experienced paddlers craving a serious challenge and a full-day of high-octane fun.
For those who want a memorable outdoor activity, these tours provide a taste of West Virginia’s rugged beauty and the thrill of whitewater rafting. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Get ready to paddle, splash, and enjoy some of the best whitewater rafting in the country—your next adventure in Oak Hill is just a click away.