Established in 1988, twenty-five miles of the Gauley River (and six miles of the Meadow River) in West Virginia are preserved as they pass through scenic gorges and valleys. The Gauley River is a legend, attracting whitewater enthusiasts from around the globe for the prime, world class white water rafting created by the releases from Summersville Dam. The Gauley River is considered by many to be one of, if not THE best, white water rafting runs in the country.