Visitors and local residents enjoy fishing, hunting, kayaking and whitewater rafting. Civil War battle reenactments are held in September at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park. The Gauley is a river of alternating rapids and pools. Guide books stress that this river should not be attempted without a high degree of skill and confidence. Even then it is best to undertake this trip only when accompanied by someone who has previous experience on the Gauley River.
Several outfitters offer guided whitewater rafting trips.
Most request that guests have previous rafting experience. These trips can be viewed from the launch point at the Summersville Dam tailwaters area or from Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, both located off WV Route 129. The Fisherman's Trail at Carnifex is a short, but extremely steep, hike to Pillow Rock Rapids. This is a popular place to watch boaters at a major rapid on the river. The State of West Virginia has a toll-free phone number that provides you with information on accommodations and service throughout the state.