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Gully River Rafting
Taming the High Water
Taming the High Water
Lansing, West Virginia
-
DifficultyAverage Difficulty
No experience required -
Duration1 day -
Number of participants6-8 -
PriceDA -
DateSeptember 12-13 -
LocationLansing, West Virginia
Geeks Reach Peaks – Full-Day Climbing at Rocky Face Mountain
This fall, join us for an unforgettable whitewater adventure on the legendary Gauley River in West Virginia - home to some of the most thrilling rapids in North America. Our two-day rafting experience will take place during the prime Gauley Season, when scheduled dam releases from Summersville Lake unleash the river's full power.
Guided by seasoned professionals, we'll explore both sections of the river:
Depending on participants' experience and preferences, we’ll tailor the routes to ensure safety while delivering maximum excitement. Whether you're a first-timer eager to learn or a thrill-seeker ready to tackle the toughest rapids, this trip will meet you at your level - and challenge you to grow.
In addition to the on-water action, we’ll share lodging and evenings together in a relaxed, welcoming space designed for connection. Expect fireside chats, group meals, and inspiring conversations with fellow adventurers - many of whom are leading professionals in tech and engineering.
Don’t miss this chance to step out of the digital world and into the wild - to bond through teamwork, test your limits, and experience one of America’s most iconic rivers.
Limited spots available. Prior swimming ability required; no rafting experience necessary.
This fall, join us for an unforgettable whitewater adventure on the legendary Gauley River in West Virginia - home to some of the most thrilling rapids in North America. Our two-day rafting experience will take place during the prime Gauley Season, when scheduled dam releases from Summersville Lake unleash the river's full power.
Guided by seasoned professionals, we'll explore both sections of the river:
- The Lower Gauley - 12 miles of dynamic Class III–IV rapids, perfect for those new to rafting or seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.
- The Upper Gauley - a high-adrenaline route with over 31 named rapids in just 11 miles, including five iconic Class V rapids and a 14-foot waterfall. This section is suitable only for well-coordinated teams and confident paddlers.
Depending on participants' experience and preferences, we’ll tailor the routes to ensure safety while delivering maximum excitement. Whether you're a first-timer eager to learn or a thrill-seeker ready to tackle the toughest rapids, this trip will meet you at your level - and challenge you to grow.
In addition to the on-water action, we’ll share lodging and evenings together in a relaxed, welcoming space designed for connection. Expect fireside chats, group meals, and inspiring conversations with fellow adventurers - many of whom are leading professionals in tech and engineering.
Don’t miss this chance to step out of the digital world and into the wild - to bond through teamwork, test your limits, and experience one of America’s most iconic rivers.
Limited spots available. Prior swimming ability required; no rafting experience necessary.
Adventure Program
Day 1
Day 1
- Arrival and hotel check-in
- Group welcome dinner
- Overnight stay
Day 2
Day 2
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Half-day whitewater rafting adventure
- Lunch
- Hiking, ziplining, and climbing are optional
- Departure
The Gauley River is legendary among American rafters.
Each fall, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases water from the Summersville Dam, turning this already wild river into a world-class whitewater destination. These scheduled dam releases create consistent, high-volume rapids - making Gauley Season one of the most anticipated rafting events in North America.
With over 100 rapids packed into 25 miles, including five Class V monsters, it’s no wonder the Gauley is often called the “Beast of the East.”
Each fall, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases water from the Summersville Dam, turning this already wild river into a world-class whitewater destination. These scheduled dam releases create consistent, high-volume rapids - making Gauley Season one of the most anticipated rafting events in North America.
With over 100 rapids packed into 25 miles, including five Class V monsters, it’s no wonder the Gauley is often called the “Beast of the East.”
Adventure Highlights
What’s included?
Does not include:
- 2 nights of shared hotel accommodation
- All rafting equipment (raft, helmet, paddle, life jacket, wetsuit if needed)
- Two days of rafting with professional, licensed guides
- Safety briefing and rafting instruction
- All group dinners and breakfasts
- Networking and fun with an amazing IT community
Does not include:
- Transportation to/from the location
- Lunches (available at local cafés and restaurants)
- Water shoes (available to purchase on-site for $12 if needed)
- Travel insurance (optional but recommended)
- Optional Guide Tips
FAQ:
We meet at the Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area.
For those who does not have a car carpool from Raleigh area will be available.
For those who does not have a car carpool from Raleigh area will be available.
Wear quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing (synthetic or wool materials - no cotton). A swimsuit, athletic shorts, and a rash guard or quick-dry T-shirt work well. You’ll also want secure footwear - water shoes or sandals with a heel strap are ideal (no flip-flops). If you don’t have water shoes, you can purchase a pair on-site for around $12.
Bring a towel, a dry change of clothes for after the trip, sunscreen, and a water bottle. We recommend a small waterproof bag if you want to keep essentials safe. You won’t need to bring any rafting equipment - it’s all provided!
No prior rafting experience is required. Our guides are highly experienced and will provide full instruction and support throughout the adventure. We’ll match each participant to the appropriate level of river section depending on comfort and ability.
Yes! All rafting equipment - helmets, life jackets, paddles, and boats - is fully included in the trip. No extra rental is necessary.
We’ll be eating locally - the area has plenty of great restaurants and cafes nearby for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Adventure Photos
REVIEWS
We told them if they didn’t leave a review, they wouldn’t come down the mountain
Thank you again for the wonderful time yesterday. Landree and I both enjoyed our introduction to outdoor rock climbing and will plan to do it again. I hope to go on more adventures with you in the future!
This wasn’t my first trip with GGP. Since we’ve become family friends with Peter and Vadim. It was awesome spending time together in Lapland. The weather was perfect, letting us enjoy the Northern Lights every single day, we got so lucky. On the last day we were already tossing around ideas about where we could go next together. Can’t wait for more adventures
I'm from Hungary and spent many years living in Budapest, yet I never took the chance to explore the local caves. Going caving with GGP was the perfect way to finally change that, and I have to say I absolutely loved it! I’d highly recommend the experience to anyone. Hopefully, I’ll get to join GGP on more adventures in the future!
Aconcagua was the trip of a lifetime. High altitude mountains are no easy feat, albeit the experience was very fulfilling. I would recommend anyone in good physical condition, with a love for nature and looking for a challenge, to visit. You won't regret it!
I had an incredible experience rock climbing at Red Rock Canyon in Nevada! It was my first time climbing, and I couldn’t have asked for a better adventure. The scenery, climb, and the amazing group of people I got to share it with made it awesome. I highly recommend, if you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity and a chance to meet great people.
I think it is an easy climb if you are not fat. I am fat.
It was a great intro into high altitude mountaineering. The itinerary was great. Maybe an overnight trip sneakjng through the Iranian border would make it more adventurous, but not as legal :)
It was a great intro into high altitude mountaineering. The itinerary was great. Maybe an overnight trip sneakjng through the Iranian border would make it more adventurous, but not as legal :)
It was a good balance between teamwork and individual challenges to complete various gymnastic exercises. I was challenged to test my balance, muscle strength, and running on vertical surfaces to reach the top of the structure. We had fun, supported each other, and collaborated to find the best approach to completing the tasks. I believe this could be a great training for trekking and hiking! I had a fantastic time at the Geeks go Ninja!
It was a great trip, the perfect one for the people who wanted to start their journey with the high altitude climbing.
Going outside with like-minded people instead of just socializing and drinking was a nice setup.
It seems that geekiness and adventure are a good combination, and they allow us to chat and make new friends.
It seems that geekiness and adventure are a good combination, and they allow us to chat and make new friends.
It was great. The trek was straightforward, but altitude made it more difficult and at the end, the weather made it a challenge
I liked that we made stops to swim, by the waterfall and on the last day we were able to visit Ishak Pasha and the baths. The mini 3D-printed Ararat was a nice touch!
I liked that we made stops to swim, by the waterfall and on the last day we were able to visit Ishak Pasha and the baths. The mini 3D-printed Ararat was a nice touch!
My friend Peter invited me to his pre conference ‘Geeks go Peaks’ event, and I immediately accepted because he loves adventure, and his events are never dull. I am complete out of shape and didn’t know anyone going, but I knew it would be fun. In keeping with Peter’s roots in the open source software community. The group was welcoming and cheered me on to try new things! I made some new friends, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this group will grow community and explore opportunities for connection and adventure.
Thank you so much for ogranizing this. It was one of the best trips in my life. Excellent! And so many interesting new people. Waiting for more photos in the shared album :)
Ararat adventure was an experience I’ll never forget! Big thanks to Geeks Go Peaks! The trip was better than I expected. The videos on Youtube do not reflect full wild experience you get during the trip. Before the trip I was a bit nervous, nit sure how I will handle the height and difficulty. After the trip I felt good, because all went well and most of the group achieved summit. I liked the itinerary and good company! I want to say big thanks! Ararat adventure was great and I will have great memories for life.
Climbing Mount Ararat is an opportunity to challenge yourself and enjoy breathtaking views. Personally, I gained emotions not only from the climb itself, but also from the time spent with a great team of like-minded people. I made new acquaintances with wonderful individuals. And Kurdish hospitality evokes nothing but warm feelings. Of course, the nature — you can watch the starry sky endlessly, far from city lights.
The sunrise at the summit during the climb is not only a sight to admire,
but also a hope for the upcoming warmth, meaning my gear held up — I won’t freeze!) Most importantly, such an adventure allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and feel truly connected to yourself — a part of nature!
The sunrise at the summit during the climb is not only a sight to admire,
but also a hope for the upcoming warmth, meaning my gear held up — I won’t freeze!) Most importantly, such an adventure allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and feel truly connected to yourself — a part of nature!
It was an amazing trip with incredible people. Climbing a mountain over 5,000 meters was a first for me, and now I’m craving even more adventures. Looking forward to the next trip!
The trip went by too fast, and I’m already looking forward to the next one. This is a great adventure for techies, and everything was described pretty much as it was. It was a great experience—somewhat hard, but not as challenging as Aconcagua, obviously. Great job!
Activity was nice, i never tried to have SUP, it was good chance to try it out! And I really like to see the people who has similar interest, that made me a nice time!
And yes I got a nice friend there and he is even my colleague now! (I didn't invite him, that's a kind of coincidence though)
And yes I got a nice friend there and he is even my colleague now! (I didn't invite him, that's a kind of coincidence though)
Let’s make it epic! Two days of adrenaline, teamwork, and unforgettable memories on one of the wildest rivers in the U.S. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer - come ride the rapids, learn new skills, and connect with an awesome crew of tech pros. Gear is included, the vibes are high, and the water is wild. Let’s go!
Peter Zaitsev
Startup pusher
